Can I get free debt advice?
Dealing with debt can feel isolating, especially when you’re unsure where to turn or who to trust. But you don’t need to face it alone. If you’re looking for free debt help in the UK, there are confidential, regulated services available to guide you through your options.
This guide explains how to access free debt advice, what to expect from that first conversation, and why speaking up could be the most important step you take.
Where to find free debt advice in the UK
Several well-known organisations provide free, impartial debt advice across the UK. These services are authorised and regulated, meaning you can trust the guidance you receive to be in your best interest.
Some of the main providers include:
- MoneyHelper – a government-backed service offering free and impartial advice on debt and money issues.
- Citizens Advice – offers face-to-face, phone and online debt advice for a wide range of financial problems.
- StepChange Debt Charity – specialises in debt management solutions and support tailored to your circumstances.
- National Debtline – provides free expert debt advice over the phone and online.
Each of these organisations can help you understand your situation, prioritise your debts and explore possible next steps.
How to talk to someone about debt
Taking that first step can be daunting. You might feel embarrassed, unsure what to say, or worried about being judged. But rest assured the people who work in debt advice services have heard it all before. Talking to someone about debt is often much easier than you expect.
When you contact an adviser, they’ll listen without judgement. You don’t need all your paperwork ready or know exactly what you owe. Just tell them what you can. They’ll help you fill in the blanks.
Here’s what typically happens:
- You’ll be asked some questions about your income, expenses, and debts.
- They’ll help you understand which debts need urgent attention.
- You’ll be walked through the different options and debt solutions available.
- You won’t be pressured to make a decision on the spot.
Speaking to someone is about starting a conversation. From there, you can decide what to do next.
What are the benefits of getting free debt support?
There are lots of reasons to reach out. Some of the biggest benefits include:
1. Clear information
You’ll get a clear picture of your finances – what you owe, what’s urgent, and what your options are.
2. Professional guidance
A regulated adviser will help you understand what each solution means in real terms. No jargon, just facts.
3. Tailored advice
Everyone’s situation is different. You’ll get advice that fits your life, your income, and your needs.
4. A realistic way forward
If a debt solution is right for you, they’ll explain how it works and what it involves. Many people find that once a plan is in place, it’s easier to stay on top of things.
5. Confidential support
Your information stays private. The conversation remains between you and your advisor.
What options could be available?
There are several ways to manage unsecured debt. Which one is right depends on your situation. Common options include:
- Debt Management Plan (DMP)
An informal plan to pay back debts included in the DMP at a rate you can afford, based on how much disposable income you have left after income and expenses each month.
- Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA)
A formal agreement with your creditors, where you pay an agreed amount over a fixed period, usually five or six years. At the end, any remaining debt included in the IVA is written off.
- Debt Relief Order (DRO)
If you owe less than £50,000, have low income and few assets, you may be eligible for a DRO which relieves you from payment towards debts included in the DRO for 12 months.
- Bankruptcy
Generally a last resort solution that writes off any remaining debt included in the bankruptcy are written off. It lasts for 12 months and during this time, your assets may be sold and you’ll have to follow certain restrictions.
What do I need to prepare before calling?
You don’t need to have all the answers. But it helps to have:
- A rough idea of what you earn and spend each month
- A list (or estimate) of your debts, including who you owe and how much
- Details of any missed payments, letters received, or threats of legal action.
If you can’t find everything, don’t worry. The advisor will help you build the full picture.
Why people avoid asking for help – and why it’s worth it
Many people put off speaking to someone about debt. Maybe you think it’s not bad enough yet. Or maybe you’re worried about what others will think. But here’s the truth: debt can happen to anyone. And talking about it doesn’t make you weak – it shows strength.
Once you take that first step, everything becomes a little clearer. You’ll know what you’re dealing with. You’ll know your rights. And you’ll know there are people ready to help.
If you decide a formal solution is right for you, MoneyPlus can support you in putting a plan in place.
How to access free debt help UK-wide
Wherever you are in the UK, you can speak to a free debt advice service such as Citizens Advice, National Debtline, or StepChange. These organisations offer non-judgemental, impartial support to help you understand your situation.
If you decide to move forward with a formal debt solution, companies like MoneyPlus can help you put that plan in place. Unlike the free advice charities mentioned above, MoneyPlus is a fee-charging company. Any fees will always be clearly explained before you decide to go ahead, and you’ll only ever pay for the services you choose.
At MoneyPlus, we’ve been helping people deal with debt for over 25 years providing confidential, non-judgemental advice tailored to your circumstances. Our team of experienced advisors will help you find a manageable budget and explore solutions that could work for your situation.
We’ll never pressure you to choose a specific option. Instead, we’ll explain everything clearly so you can make the right decision for you. Get in touch with us to find your solution.
