Take a breath. Knowing which bills come first, and where to get help, is the most useful next step.
Some bills matter more than others. Priority bills include rent, mortgage, council tax, gas, electricity, court fines, child maintenance, and the TV licence (if you use one). Falling behind on these has bigger consequences, such as eviction, court action, or being cut off.
Non-priority bills include credit cards, store cards, unsecured loans, catalogue debt, payday loans, and overdrafts. They still matter, but the consequences move more slowly.
Whatever you owe, you have rights. The Financial Conduct Authority sets rules on how companies can chase money. They cannot threaten you, contact your employer without your permission, or speak to anyone else about your debt without your consent.
Letters do not solve themselves. Opening post and getting in touch with a free debt advice service is almost always the lower-pain path; the services below will walk through your situation, your rights, and your options.
If a court letter has arrived, time matters. Reach out to a free debt advice service today so they can help before any court date.
Free, confidential debt advice and debt solutions for people in the UK. One of the largest debt charities in the country, with online advice available 24/7 and a freephone helpline.
Regulatory status: Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Firm Reference Number 729047. Charity numbers 1016630 (England and Wales) and SC046263 (Scotland).
Free, independent, confidential advice on debt, benefits, housing, employment, and consumer issues. Network of local offices across England and Wales.
Regulatory status: FCA for debt advice
Free, independent debt advice over the phone and online, run by the Money Advice Trust. Covers England, Wales, and Scotland.
Regulatory status: FCA for debt advice
Free and impartial money guidance backed by the UK government, run by the Money and Pensions Service. Covers debt, pensions, benefits, and everyday money topics.
Regulatory status: Money and Pensions Service (MaPS), arm's-length body of HM Government