Where Can I Get Debt Advice?
If you are behind with payments and have received an arrears notice here is some important information to help you.
Don't ignore the problem. - Contact the organisation you owe money to. Let them know you are having problems. They may be able to discuss options for paying back what you owe.
- Get free help and advice. Your rights and options depend on the type of agreement, and the law can be complex. You can get free independent help and advice from a number of organisations - see below for details.
- Pay priority debts first. For example, rent, council tax, gas and/or electricity arrears. A Support Worker/Debt Advisor can help you budget to keep your finances under control.
- Think carefully before borrowing money to repay debts. Get advice before borrowing, you will pay more in the long run.
- You may be able to ask a court for more time to repay a debt. But only in some circumstances. Speak to a debt advisor before court action. Keep copies of letters and emails in case these are needed by the court.
- DOING NOTHING COULD MAKE THINGS WORSE
- Your Landlord/lender could take legal action against you, and you could affect your credit rating and make it more difficult to get credit in the future.
You can contact the following non profit making organisations for free, confidential and impartial advice.
National Debtline
Phone 0808 808 4000 or visit
www.nationaldebtline.co.uk for debt advice and information.
Consumer Credit Counselling Service
Phone 0800 138 111 or visit
www.cccs.co.uk.
Citizens Advice Bureau
For advice and information on debt or other topics, visit your nearest Citizens Advice Bureau - check the phone book for the address.
www.citizensadvice.org.ukCommunity Legal Advice
For free advice phone 0845 345 4 345 if you qualify for legal aid or visit
www.communitylegalaidservice.org.uk.