Are you struggling to keep up with your bills?
Are you struggling to keep up with your bills?
The reality is that debt can quickly spiral out of control and affect other areas of your life including your health, relationships and work.
If you’re facing financial difficulties, it can be hard to see a way through, but there can be light at the end of the tunnel. Our Welfare Rights & Money Advice Team is here to offer specialist debt advice and assistance to help you regain control of your finances.
Which bills to pay first?
Some bills are classed as priorities because the consequences of not paying them are more serious. For example, if you don’t pay your rent you could end up losing your home. Your priority bills are:
- Rent
- Council Tax
- Gas
- Electricity
- Court fines
- TV licence
If you are struggling to pay these bills it is important that you let the providers (that’s us if it’s your rent) know as soon as possible. They will discuss your options with you to help you repay your arrears.
Maximise your income
Check you are receiving your full benefit entitlement.
Draw up a budget
Working out your personal budget will help you to see:
- How much money is coming into your household
- How much money is going out
- How much money you have left
- How much you can afford to pay your creditors (the people you owe money to).
Don’t pay for advice
Don’t be tempted to contact one of the many debt management companies which are often advertised online. Although they offer to consolidate your debts into manageable payments, their help comes at a hefty price.
There is a lot of free debt advice online to help you manage your debts, or contact our Welfare Rights & Money Advice team on 023 8083 2339.
Download or request a copy of our Dealing with Debt self-help magazine which explains the steps you need to take to sort out your money problems. It also includes sample letters to help you when writing to your creditors.
