Dealing With Debt
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on 12 June 2013Can't afford to go bankrupt? A debt relief order may be the answer
Going bankrupt is incredibly expensive. If it's too much for you, you may be able to get a debt relief order. But is that a good idea? -
on 04 June 2013Double debt trouble for the 'sandwich generation'
Over-60s find themselves dealing with both dependent children and elderly parents, which is pushing many into money troubles. -
on 20 May 2013The shocking truth about debt and mental health
Debt can take its toll on your mental health. -
on 09 May 2013Numbers struggling with payday loan debt doubles
The number of people contacting StepChange Debt Charity for help with payday loans more than doubled between 2011 and 2012. -
on 16 April 2013Government seeks to secure debts against homes
The Government wants to start securing people's homes against their tax bill. And that's a bad thing. -
on 05 April 2013Problem debt: will I ever be able to get a mortgage?
If you need to take out an IVA, a Debt Relief Order or go bankrupt, what damage will it do to your chances of getting a mortgage in the future? -
on 26 March 2013What happens when your debt management firm shuts down
If you use a fee-charging debt management firm, you're at the mercy of it closing its doors, as has happened with Debt Help Direct. -
on 28 February 2013What to do if your children are in debt
If your children are struggling, it's natural to want to help them. But rather than throw money at the problem, what other things can you do to help them get out of debt? -
on 12 February 2013Bankruptcy: don't manage your money like Martine McCutcheon
Nineties star Martine McCutcheon has become the latest celebrity to be made bankrupt. We look at why she's ended up in the red, and what happens next. -
on 04 February 2013Demand for debt help rockets
We've never been so busy, with thousands looking for debt help. So what sort of people are looking for advice, and what sort of debts are they struggling with? -
on 24 January 2013
Self-employed suffering with double the debt of employed
Turning your back on working for 'The Man' can seem an attractive proposition, but self-employed workers seeking debt help have double the debt of employed people. -
on 11 January 2013
Debt schemes that prey on those in need of help
These firms promise the end to your debt worries. In reality all they offer is an easy way to lose your money. -
on 05 January 2013
Five money resolutions you should make this year
Never mind losing weight or giving up the booze - these are the resolutions that you really need to stick to! -
on 07 December 2012
Why guarantor loans are dangerous
We all want to help our friends and family in times of need. But is a guarantor loan the answer? Or will it just make things worse? -
on 29 November 2012Self-employed and in debt? These tips will help you manage
Being self-employed isn't easy. If you are stuck in the red, we've got some simple steps you can follow. -
on 23 November 2012Healthy food and a healthy bank balance: you can have both
Many people battling debt turn to junk food in order to cut their grocery bill. But it is possible to have both a healthy fridge and healthy bank balance. -
on 06 November 2012
Why we're changing our name to StepChange Debt Charity
The CCCS has rebranded to the StepChange Debt Charity. Here, the charity explains the move and what it means. -
on 24 October 2012
The dangers of multiple payday loans
Payday loans can fulfill a role as a one off. But for too many borrowers, that one off turns into a payday loan habit. -
on 12 October 2012Overdrafts: the debt problem you didn't realise you had
Overdrafts aren't always seen as a debt. Yet the number stuck in the red continues to rise. -
on 26 September 2012
New laws mean credit card debt can affect your mortgage
From 1st October new legislation will come into force which will change how creditors can apply for charging orders. -
on 17 September 2012Budgeting was easier when we were paid weekly
Weekly pay is not that common any more, but budgeting seemed to be easier when it was the norm. -
on 05 September 2012Why a 0% credit card could mean 100% trouble
Interest-free credit cards can help clear your debt. But what happens when the 0% deals are no longer within reach? -
on 24 August 2012Bankruptcy: handing back the keys to your home
Your home is not just where you live. It may also be a major cause of your debt. For some, the best move is simply to hand back the keys and walk away. -
on 15 August 2012Losing your job isn't the only cause of middle age debt
The number one cause of personal debt is losing a job. But delve a little deeper and injury and illness play a big part in financial distress in middle age. What can you do to avoid debt if you're in that age group. -
on 09 August 2012
Scammers turn to 'mis-sold IVA' letters
People with IVAs are being besieged by scammers, suggesting the IVA was mis-sold. -
on 30 July 2012Credit card debts mean I'll never get a mortgage
This client is young and on a decent salary, yet credit card debts mean he's given up on ever owning his home. -
on 20 July 2012What happens to your foreign debts if you go bankrupt in the UK?
You may have debts overseas when you go bankrupt. So what happens to them? -
on 13 July 2012The real result of PPI mis-selling
PPI has long been recognised as an insurance that was widely mis-sold. But the true result of that mis-selling has too often been ignored. -
on 05 July 2012
When money saving doesn't actually save you money
Switching to a cheaper deal is always a smart move. But what you do with that 'saved' money is more important. -
on 28 June 2012Who has more debt: men or women?
The battle of the sexes that neither side wants to win - are men or women more likely to be in debt? -
on 19 June 2012
Baby boomers are going bust
As new research shows a sharp jump in the number of over-60s in mortgage arrears, we ask where did it all go wrong for the baby boomers? -
on 13 June 2012
Eight reasons you'll never be truly debt free
If you're guilty of these eight mistakes, you'll never truly be free of debt. -
on 29 May 2012
The firms that charge £600 for filling in a bankruptcy form
These bankruptcy firms promise to help get your finances back on track. But you'll pay through the nose first. -
on 21 May 2012What happens to your debts when you die?
Debt doesn't disappear when you pass away. -
on 11 May 2012Why London is the capital of debt
The streets of London are paved with debt, not gold. -
on 05 May 2012
Why is an overdraft not seen as a debt?
An overdraft is not always seen as a sign of money troubles. It should be! -
on 26 April 2012You could end up with debt that isn't even yours
If your relationship comes to an end, you could end up with debt that's not of your own doing! -
on 20 April 2012
Debt: ten money mistakes we hear every day
Every debt story is different, but there are common mistakes at the heart of almost all of them. -
on 13 April 2012Bailiffs: why Coronation Street doesn't help those in debt
Coronation Street currently has a plotline revolving around gambling debts and bailiffs. But don't be fooled into thinking what appears on screen really happens! -
on 05 April 2012The importance of spring cleaning your finances
As we approach Easter, the time has come to ensure your financial situation is on the mend. -
on 01 April 2012Right of offset: how the bank can take all of your wages
Right of offset is a little known legal instrument which gives banks the right to take what you owe them directly from your pay cheque. -
on 21 March 2012Forget the 2012 Budget - the 2010 Budget is just about to hit home
This week's Budget has had all of the attention, but it's changes that were first announced two years ago that are about to make a difference. -
on 16 March 2012Don't delay getting help with your debts
45% of CCCS clients waited a year before getting help. Carrying on regardless just makes your debt problems worse! -
on 09 March 2012Help us to stop spam texts
These texts promise you the chance to wipe out your debts through a simple loan. But they aren't the answer to your debt prayers! -
on 01 March 2012
The middle aged are the new debt generation
The middle aged and elderly are set to become the most indebted age group in the next few years. -
on 22 February 2012
Your rights with bailiffs
As rogue bailiffs hit the headlines, we look at your rights when dealing with debt collectors. -
on 14 February 2012
The first step to becoming debt free
If you want to ditch that debt forever, it's time for you to have a "lightbulb moment". -
on 04 February 2012
Why Statute Barred doesn't let you run away from your debts
Statute Barred is a piece of legislation which some think allows you to run away from your debts. That's a dangerous myth! -
on 31 January 2012What can you do if the worst were to happen?
Families across the country are failing to prepare for a change in their circumstances. -
on 17 January 2012
8 top equity release tips
Equity release is a controversial subject, but provides a lifeline to some pensioners. Here's how to ensure you get the right deal for you. -
on 10 January 2012Why debt consolidation is not the answer
Debt consolidation loans promise the world, but they may end up making your debt problem worse. -
on 05 January 2012
Five New Year's resolutions you shouldn't make
Think about the cost of your New Year's resolution before you commit to it! -
on 27 December 2011
A Christmas Debt Carol
Ben Scrooge isn't like his penny-pinching ancestor. But he too has some lessons to learn courtesy of ghostly visitations! -
on 21 December 201110 tips for driving home for Christmas
If you're driving home this Christmas, find out how to keep the costs down! -
on 16 December 2011Spend less on Christmas 2011
With the kids demanding more expensive Christmas presents, it's easy to spend a fortune. Here's how to spend less on Christmas 2011. -
on 11 December 2011You're not alone with debt this Christmas
Why wait until January to get your debt problems under control, when help is already at hand? -
on 03 December 2011Is it human nature to live beyond our means?
People have spent more than they had for centuries! -
on 25 November 2011We don't take retirement seriously enough
A new survey shows just how ill-prepared we are for our twilight years. -
on 16 November 2011
The loan that charges 131,000% APR
Illegal loan sharking might seem a world away from your own life but these criminals are circling those in deep financial water. And they could bite a chunk out of someone you know. -
on 09 November 2011Older people own everything and nothing
Debt is not just a problem for young people - many older Brits are struggling too. -
on 01 November 2011
These 95 people are now debt free. Are you?
95 of our debt management plan clients become debt free today. -
on 24 October 2011
Men are the weakest (money) link
When it comes to dealing with debt, men have much to learn. -
on 13 October 2011We've split up. Can my ex pay my debt for me?
The relationship may have ended, but the debt is still alive and well. But who is responsible for paying it? -
on 05 October 2011
The secret your lover's too ashamed to tell you
When everyone is assumed to have money troubles it's perhaps not surprising that we're being more open about it. -
on 29 September 2011The Poll Tax is back!
The Poll Tax is a thing of the past. So why are people still receiving Poll Tax demands? -
on 21 September 2011
Pay as you retire? More money misery for pensioners
Even after retirement, the taxman is still after your money... -
on 15 September 2011
Forget savers, we care about the people in debt
Never mind the 'suffering savers' - let's focus on keeping borrowers out of problem debt. -
on 06 September 2011Teens should be forced to learn the value of money
It's high time the Government added school lessons on how to spend money properly! -
on 01 September 2011The top 5 reasons why our kids will never get a mortgage
If you think buying is tough now, it's only going to get worse for young people. -
on 24 August 2011
Is now the best time to have a gap year before university?
Taking a year out to learn about money could be vastly beneficial when you get to uni... -
on 18 August 2011Big house but no cash? You're asset rich, cash poor
You might have a lot of assets, but that doesn't mean you won't have money worries. -
on 13 August 2011
I'm the Chairman of the Bank of Mum and Dad
We take a look at some of the problems surrounding lending to family and friends... -
on 02 August 2011
Have you reached your debt ceiling?
Are you borrowing more and more just to pay off your debts? -
on 27 July 2011
It's time to get some debt perspective
Those in debt tend to grasp at one of these five lifelines. But they need some perspective... -
on 19 July 2011Welfare benefits: A safety net or a burden on the state?
Claiming benefits could help you to get out of debt... -
on 12 July 2011An immaculate credit rating can still hurt you
We reveal why having a perfect credit history can sometimes work against you... -
on 05 July 2011
How the credit crunch is your fault
You might not want to believe it, but we all owe the banks money... -
on 28 June 2011
The Hertfordshire town suffering from debt more than most
Watford is one of the worst towns for rising debt. But why? -
on 21 June 2011
Don't act like you're not in debt
Anyone can find themselves in debt, no matter what they earn. -
on 14 June 2011
The Home Counties: the home of debt
Debt isn't just found in the inner-cities. -
on 07 June 2011
What we shouldn't learn from the people of Richmond
Perhaps all is not rosy in the leafy suburbs. -
on 01 June 2011
You're a sucker for advertising. Yes, you
Following on from some of the comments on last week's blog post, we take a look at how much of an impact advertising can have on you and your finances. -
on 24 May 2011
Five steps to becoming debt free forever
If you want to be debt free for good, here's how to take control. -
on 17 May 2011Forget university - get a McJob!
With student fees on the up, would your children be better off ditching university all together in favour of getting a job? -
on 11 May 2011
Ten things you need to know about credit card debt
We highlight what could happen if you fall behind on credit card payments... -
on 03 May 2011Are you putting your credit cards before your kids?
Money difficulties are having a serious effect on many children. -
on 28 April 201110 sneaky retail tricks that are debt traps - part 2
The second and final part of our series on sneaky retail tricks that encourage you to spend more. -
on 19 April 2011
10 sneaky retail tricks that are debt traps - part 1
Don't get caught out the next time you're making a big purchase. -
on 13 April 2011How to do your own free financial check up
We take you through the steps needed to give your finances a once-over. -
on 05 April 2011
Ten debt time bombs for the over-40s
Make sure you don't end up retiring in debt... -
on 29 March 2011
Not struggling with debt? You might be soon
Even if you're comfortable now, your finances could take a hit in the near future... -
on 22 March 2011Smoking can seriously damage your budget!
The price of cigarettes is set to rise. Here's how you could save by giving up your addiction... -
on 15 March 2011
Is a well-earned retirement becoming a thing of the past?
A debt-free retirement may be more of a dream than a reality... -
on 08 March 2011
Don't get caught in a loan shark's teeth
If money is tight, the offer of a loan might sound tempting. But make sure you don't become loan shark bait... -
on 01 March 2011Money tips don't grow on trees: 6 alternative money tips to teach kids
Find out how to teach your kids about money... -
on 22 February 2011Playing the blame game: 4 justifications we make for debt
If you're struggling with your finances, it's time to stop blaming someone else and start taking control... -
on 15 February 2011
Don't be a loser at gambling
Don't let your hobby become an addiction... -
on 08 February 2011Can I afford to keep my horse?
What happens when you can no longer afford the things that mean a lot to you? -
on 02 February 2011
Don't make debt your Groundhog Day
Today's date (2 February) marks Groundhog Day. Here's how to ensure you don't get stuck in a rut with your debt... -
on 24 January 2011
Life after debt
If you've got out of debt, follow these top tips to stay debt free for good. -
on 18 January 2011
It started with a store card...
We reveal how easy it is to lose control of your finances... -
on 12 January 2011
#debtday: 12 hours, thousands of people, millions of pounds of debt
The CCCS will be running special live updates on Twitter on Monday to raise debt awareness. -
on 04 January 2011
The first steps to facing up to your debt
With the recession still biting and cutbacks in public spending on the way, getting your finances back on track should be a priority for 2011. -
on 20 December 2010Have a money-saving Christmas feast
Check out these top tips for a frugal Christmas dinner! -
on 30 November 2010Are you living with a shopaholic?
An addiction to shopping can do some serious damage to your finances. Find out how you can help a shopaholic to stop spending. -
on 24 November 2010
Walk down the aisle for less
Find out how you can save money on your wedding day and prevent yourself from getting into masses of debt... -
on 17 November 2010
Watch out for this quick fix for repaying debt
What would you do if someone offered to clear all your existing debts overnight? Here's why you shouldn't be tempted to accept... -
on 09 November 2010
When banks can take your money without your consent
Find out how being loyal to your bank could make you worse off. -
on 03 November 2010
The top 10 debt myths
Watch out for these 10 debt myths.... -
on 25 October 2010
Keeping your finances afloat when your relationship sinks
If your relationship has broken down, find out how to keep on top of your finances. -
on 20 October 2010
I've just lost my job!
If the Spending Review cuts are going to affect you, find out how to keep your head above water... -
on 18 October 2010
7 steps to make Christmas easier on your wallet
Christmas is fast approaching so follow these top tips to make sure you don't get into debt this year... -
on 01 October 2010
The grown-up kids who are after your money
You thought your kids had moved out of home for good. But now they're back, and putting a strain on your finances... -
on 17 September 2010
Beware free debt advice
New advertising rules make it more difficult for fee-charging debt management companies to say their services are "free". Will this make the information clearer for consumers? -
on 10 September 2010
Ten ways to know you're living beyond your means
Do you get that sinking feeling just before payday when you find that you are down to your last fiver? Are you relying on the trusty overdraft to finance your living costs towards the end of the month? -
on 27 August 2010
The hidden costs of your food bill
How many times do you walk into the supermarket to buy a bottle of milk and end up with bulging bags full of groceries you don't really need? -
on 13 August 2010
Whatever will the Duchess do next?
From `Budgie the Helicopter' to budgeting, Sarah Ferguson was once flying high. But now she's come down to earth with a bump. -
on 30 July 2010
Credit reports explained
Find out how to check your credit file, what to do if your credit report is inaccurate, and how you can improve your credit rating. -
on 16 July 2010
Don't get evicted from your home!
Find out your rights to ensure you don't get evicted, even if you find yourself behind with the rent. -
on 02 July 2010
Understanding repossession procedures
Find out how the repossession process works and what you should be aware of. -
on 17 June 2010
Dealing with mortgage debts
If you're struggling to pay your mortgage, here's all you need to know about what your lender can and can't do... -
on 03 June 2010
The truth about bailiffs
We take a look at how much power bailiffs really have and what you can do if you have a complaint against them... -
on 21 May 2010
How the court can make you pay your debts
If you've been issued with a CCJ, here are five further ways the court may enforce your debts. -
on 07 May 2010
Charging orders explained
If you've been issued with a CCJ and can't keep up with your repayments, the court may grant a charging order. Here's what you need to know. -
on 23 April 2010
What to do if court action is taken
We give you the lowdown on what happens if court action is taken against you, and explain exactly what a CCJ is.... -
on 09 April 2010
Collection Agencies - the next step in the recovery process
Get impartial, independent advice from leading debt charity, the CCCS, on how to take your first steps to get out of debt. -
on 26 March 2010
Creditor Action - debt recovery processes
Get impartial, independent advice from leading debt charity, the CCCS, on how to take your first steps to get out of debt. -
on 12 March 2010
Debt Management Plans - A closer look
Get impartial, independent advice from leading debt charity, the CCCS, on how to take your first steps to get out of debt. -
on 25 February 2010
Insolvency may be the best option
Get impartial, independent advice from leading debt charity, the CCCS, on how to take your first steps to get out of debt. -
on 12 February 2010
The third step towards a debt-free existence
Get impartial, independent advice from leading debt charity, the CCCS on how to take your first steps to get out of debt. -
on 03 February 2010
The 2nd step towards a debt-free existence
Get impartial, independent advice from leading debt charity, the CCCS, on how to take your second step to get out of debt. -
on 20 January 2010
The first steps towards a debt-free existence
Get impartial, independent advice from leading debt charity, the CCCS. on how to take your first steps to get out of debt.
About this blog
If you’re in debt, this blog will help you! The MoneyAware team at the UK’s leading debt charity, StepChange Debt Charity (formerly CCCS), writes the blog so you'll get impartial, expert advice. (http://www.stepchange.org)