Steve has worked for MoneyPlus Advice for 14 years and has a huge amount of experience in the debt advice industry.
If you’re constantly worrying about bills – from electricity and water to council tax and credit cards – you’re not alone. For many people in the UK, the cost of keeping up with everyday expenses has risen sharply. When you’re already stretched, a new bill through the letterbox can feel like the final straw. This…
Running your own business brings freedom and flexibility – but it also comes with risk. If you’re self-employed and suddenly have no work, it can be frightening trying to figure out how to cover your bills and stay afloat. This guide explains what to do if you’re self-employed with no income, including help with benefits,…
Using a credit card to make ends meet isn’t unusual, especially with the rising cost of living and irregular income patterns. But when spending on credit becomes a monthly routine, it’s a warning sign that your budget may no longer be working. This guide explores why many people in the UK are living on credit…
Finding yourself running out of money before payday is more common than you might think. Rising bills, unexpected costs, or even just a higher-than-usual food shop can quickly throw off your budget. If you can’t make it to payday this month, there are practical steps you can take right now, as well as longer-term options…
It’s something no one expects to face, yet more and more families across the UK are struggling to put meals on the table. With food, energy and everyday costs rising faster than incomes, even households that were coping a year ago may now be falling behind. If you’ve found yourself skipping meals, buying less, or…
Council tax is a priority bill in the UK, which means it should be paid before most other debts. Missing a payment might seem like a small slip, but the consequences can escalate quickly. If you’re dealing with unpaid council tax in the UK, it’s important to understand the process, the potential penalties, and what…
When money is tight, it’s natural to feel unsure about which bills to pay first. Not all debts have the same consequences if you miss payments, so knowing the difference between priority vs non-priority debt is essential. In this guide, we’ll explain the key terms, outline the types of debt UK households commonly face, and…
If you’re dealing with unmanageable debt, two of the most common solutions you might come across are an Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA) and a Debt Management Plan (DMP). Both can help you regain control of your finances, but they work in very different ways. In this guide, we’ll explain the difference between an IVA and…
If you’re struggling with debt, the number of options available can feel overwhelming. From formal agreements like Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVAs) to flexible repayment plans, it’s not always clear which route will suit your situation best. This step-by-step guide will help you start narrowing down your options, so picking a debt solution becomes less daunting. …
If you’ve received a visit or letter from a debt collection agency, you might be wondering what they can take from you. Understanding your rights is the first step in protecting your belongings and taking control of the situation. In the UK, the powers of debt collectors are limited, and knowing the difference between a…
Finding an official-looking letter on your doormat can be worrying, especially if it’s from bailiffs or council tax enforcement officers. Ignoring it won’t make the problem go away. In fact, doing nothing could make the situation worse. This guide explains what triggers bailiff action, your rights if they contact you, and how to stop the…
If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a pile of unopened envelopes or ignoring notifications from your bank, you’re not alone. Many people feel scared to open debt letters, avoid looking at bank statements, or can’t bring themselves to check bills. That fear can build over time, and the longer it goes on, the harder…