Money Management
Everyone has to manage their money, but if you get into debt or fall behind with any payments, here are some useful steps you can take:
- Never ignore the problem - it will not go away.
- Don’t take out further credit. If you owe money, contact the lender and tell them about your financial situation.
- Gather all the documents you have received about your debt and make a list of everyone you owe money to. Then put your debts in order of priority. A priority debt is one where serious action can be taken against you, for example rent or mortgage arrears, fines, council tax or electric, gas and phone bills.
- If you have problems paying your rent, you must contact your Area Housing Officer as soon as possible. They can offer advice and help set up a repayment plan. If you do not keep to your repayment agreement, we may have to take further action, including final warnings before possible legal action.
- If you have council tax arrears, you must contact our revenues department and arrange a repayment plan.
- If you fall behind with fuel payments, contact your supplier to let them know. They will help you set up a repayment plan to reduce your arrears,
Our benefits team can officer advice, or you can find more helpful information from other websites including the Citizens Advice Bureau and the Money Advice Service.