Follow this action plan to work through the problem

Use a Budget Planner to work out your weekly income and expenditure. Be realistic in listing your expenditure and don't leave anything out.
Use this plan to work out the difference between your income and expenditure. If there is any money left you can use it to pay off your debts, even if you can only pay a small amount each week or month.
If there's nothing left, or you find you spend more than you've got, take a look at where your money goes. Is there any way in which you can make savings? Are you able to walk instead of getting the bus, can you cook communally, or buy books second hand for example. The Access to Learning Fund may be able to help with certain additional expenses, for example, childcare costs.
If you have several debts, make a list of who you owe money to and how much you owe. Then consider which are most important: Rent or Mortgage debts are a priority - if you get behind with your payments you may lose your home. Paying bills for services is also very important - you don't want to be without water, gas or electricity.
Talk to your creditors; explain your situation. If necessary, back up your explanation with a written statement of your income and expenses. Ask them to freeze any interest you're paying, so that you repay the amount you owe without extra being added on. Negotiate a repayment schedule; you may be able to pay a bill by instalments. Be realistic, even if that means paying only a small amount each week or month. Never offer more than you can realistically afford to pay.

Print, save or share

Follow this action plan to work through the problem