Step by step
List every due or missed payment
Write the provider, amount, due date, arrears, reference number and the next action threatened. Use statements rather than estimates where possible.
Protect essentials first
Flag bills where non-payment can affect your home, essential services, liberty or important possessions. MoneyHelper calls these priority bills; consequences matter more than the interest rate.
Build an honest short budget
Start with income, housing, food, energy, essential travel and current priority payments. Do not promise money that is not left after essentials.
Contact providers early
Explain the change in circumstances, state what you can afford and ask for available support, a pause or an affordable plan. Record the date, person and agreement.
Ready-to-use checklist
- All arrears listed
- Priority consequences checked
- Essential budget calculated
- Providers contacted and notes saved
- Free debt advice considered
Common problems
There is not enough for essentials
Use a free debt-advice locator now. Avoid taking new high-cost credit to cover an unaffordable plan.
A provider demands an immediate figure
Ask for time to complete an income-and-expenditure statement and request the proposal in writing.
UK sources and scope
Checked 27 September 2026. Details may vary by nation, provider and circumstances; follow the linked official or specialist source for the current position.