What are my options for dealing with debt?

Breathing space is a free Government-backed scheme allowing individuals time to get debt advice to help relieve the stress caused by debt.

A mental health breathing space is a debt respite scheme for people currently receiving mental health crisis treatment.

Learn the difference between priority and non-priority debts - priority debts have serious consequences if you don't pay them. Learn more.

If you have debt with a bank or building society they can take money from your account if you have a debt with the same banking group. Learn how to avoid this.

Learn how to create a budget sheet to find out how much you have available to pay your debts each month so you can control your money better.

If you cannot afford the normal debt monthly payments, the first thing to consider is negotiating reduced payments. Find out how.

Find out how a free debt management plan can help you manage your debts by working with a company who will contact creditors on your behalf.

An administration order (AO) allows you to make one affordable payment to the county court each month. This money is then passed to the creditors.

A Debt Relief Order (DRO) is a cheaper alternative to bankruptcy. We explain how to apply for a Debt Relief Order, and what you need to qualify.

An Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA) is a legally binding arrangement between you and your creditors set up by an Insolvency Practitioner.

Bankruptcy is a way having all of your debts written off. It is not normally suitable if you have equity in your home or other valuable assets.

There is no blacklist. Not being able to pay your debt will affect your credit rating. Learn more about how not paying debts can affect your credit score.

Creditors should consider writing off your debt if you're unwell, unlikely to recover soon and have no way of repaying the debt.

Creditors of priority debts have different powers of recovery depending on the debt. We explain what creditors can and can't do if you can't pay your debts.

Understand how to deal with debt collectors in the UK so you can manage the situation and don't become so stressed that it affects your mental health.

We explain when you should tell your creditors about your mental health condition, and what guidelines they can apply to help you manage your debt.

If you are struggling with debts it is important to speak to a specialist debt adviser. Find out how to get a debt adviser and how they can help.

If you're struggling financially, it's important to know how to spot a loan shark and what to do if you have borrowed money from one. We share everything you need to know.