Free, high-quality debt help is available in the UK from StepChange, National Debtline, Citizens Advice and Debt Compass among others. Never pay an upfront fee for basic debt help.
Be sceptical of firms that push you straight into a single solution — usually an IVA — without exploring alternatives. Some of these firms only earn commission from IVAs, which can bias the guidance offered.
Ignore cold callers claiming to be from 'the government debt scheme' or offering to 'write off your debt'. There is no such scheme. Debt Compass and other genuine services will never contact you out of the blue offering to write debts off.
Related reading
Scams & Debt Advice Traps
Spotting fake IVA and 'write off your debt' adverts
If an advert promises to wipe most of your debt with no downsides, treat it with real caution.
ReadDebts for the Self-Employed
Managing debt when your income moves each month
How to build a realistic budget from unpredictable income — and which formal solutions still work if you're self-employed.
ReadDebts for the Self-Employed
Self-employed and behind on HMRC
Falling behind with tax as a sole trader is very common — and very fixable if you act early.
ReadStudent Loans
UK student loans — how repayment really works
Student loans are collected through PAYE (or Self Assessment) based on income above a threshold, and are written off after a set period.
Read