What can you do to sort out your debts?
- If you have a problem, it is best to face up to it sooner, rather than later. Take steps to sort out your debt.
- Don't ignore the problem: it won't go away, the longer you leave it, the worse it gets.
- Tackle your priority debt first, look at the list below if you want to check out what is a priority debt.
If you are looking for advice on a debt problem or find you have more money going out than coming in, My Money Steps may be able to help you >>.
Priority debts
Some debts are more important than others. These things can happen if you delay too long:
Debt | Action against you |
| Rent arrears | Eviction from your home |
| Council tax | Bailiffs can take things from your home (this is called Distraint) and/or deduction from your wages, Income Support or Job Seekers Allowance and/or Imprisonment |
| Water rates | Supply can be cut off |
| Gas or Electricity | Supply can be cut off |
| Magistrates' Court Fine | Bailiffs can take things form your home and/or deduction from your wages, Income Support or Job Seekers Allowance and/or Imprisonment |
| Maintenance | Bailiffs can take things form your home and/or deduction from your wages, Income Support or Job Seekers Allowance and/or Imprisonment |
| Income Tax National Insurance VAT arrears | Bailiffs can take things from your home and/or bankruptcy |
| Hire purchase | Repossession of the goods |
| TV licence | Magistrates's Court Fine |
Remember you need not be alone with any money problems: You can get free independent help and advice from your nearest Citizens' Advice Bureau or the National Debt Line on freephone 0800 096 0690. To find organisations that can help you with your money worries Chatterbox can help.
The Consumer Credit Counselling Service are a registered charity who can help you become debt free They offer expert, confidential and impartial debt advice that’s completely free of charge. To get started now, use the CCCS Debt Remedy online tool for free debt advice tailored to your individual needs.
