DEBT
Understand what needs attention first.
For anyone juggling repayments, avoiding letters or unsure which creditor to contact. You do not need a finished budget before asking for help.
What this pathway helps you do
Distinguish urgent bills from interest costs. Gather information without trying to diagnose your own debt solution. Prepare for a useful conversation with a trained adviser.
A route through the essentials
- Check urgency. Priority debts are about the consequences of non-payment, not simply the largest balance or highest rate. Use MoneyHelper’s guide to understand the distinction.
- Bring the information together. Note balances, payment dates, arrears and any court or enforcement letters. Keep the letters rather than relying on memory.
- Get help with the order. If payments or essentials are unaffordable, use free debt advice. Options and procedures differ across the UK; explain where you live.
If you are worried about missed payments, find free debt advice. The worksheet below gathers information; it does not tell you which debt solution to choose.
A supporting read
One action to try
Put the most recent letters and statements in one folder. If there is a deadline, tell the adviser about it when you contact them.
Open the free debt priority worksheet — no email signup needed.
Where to go next
Money basics · Spending & budgeting
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Reviewed 9 September 2026. Check current details at the original source.