Debt is one of the most stressful financial situations you can face, but there are always options — whatever the size of the debt, however long it has been building. This section covers everything from understanding what you owe and building a repayment plan, through to formal debt solutions and your legal rights when dealing with creditors.
Free, confidential help is available: StepChange (0800 138 1111), National Debtline (0808 808 4000), Citizens Advice, and MoneyHelper — you should never pay for basic debt advice.
Priority vs Non-Priority Debts
The most important first step is separating your debts into priority and non-priority:
| Priority debts | Non-priority debts |
|---|---|
| Mortgage or rent arrears | Credit cards |
| Council tax | Personal loans |
| Gas and electricity | Overdrafts |
| Magistrates’ court fines | Buy now pay later |
| Child maintenance | Store cards / catalogues |
| TV licence | Payday loans |
Always deal with priority debts first — they carry the most serious enforcement powers, including losing your home.
Debt Hubs
Managing Debt
Repayment strategies (debt snowball vs avalanche), understanding APR, 0% balance transfers, calculators, and what to do when debt affects your mental health.
Debt Solutions
Formal options — IVA, DRO, bankruptcy, debt management plans, breathing space, and Scottish solutions (Trust Deed, DAS, sequestration).
Credit Scores
How credit scores work, how to check yours for free, Experian vs Equifax vs TransUnion, and how to improve your score.
Building Credit
Building credit from scratch, credit builder cards, how to recover after bankruptcy, and joint credit applications.
Loans
Personal loans, guarantor loans, payday loans, secured vs unsecured, and what happens if you can’t repay.
Buy Now Pay Later
Klarna, Clearpay, and BNPL explained — how they affect your credit file and what to do if you can’t pay.
Car Finance
PCP, HP, and personal loans for cars — voluntary termination rights, mis-selling claims, and GAP insurance.
Rights and Protection
Bailiff rights, debt collector rules, statute-barred debt, what happens to debt when you die, and CIFAS protective registration.
Specific Debt Problems
Can’t pay council tax, credit card, overdraft, or mortgage — what happens and what to do in each situation.
Student Loans
How student loan repayment works, thresholds for 2026/27, and whether paying off early makes financial sense.