Where to get Debt Advice

[FrankWhite]

Ok guys,

Where can i go to get some financial advice about paying off my debts? I live in London UK and would like to get some opinions from you guys - have you had any good advice from one particular service? Did you go to your bank? Can the CAB really help with debt advice? Has anyone had it written off before?

Thanks in advance!

[corawhite07]

You can get financial advice in government led or government backed services, including the Money Advice Service.

[disneysteve]

I'd suggest starting right here. Lay out your situation for us to review. Tell us your income, your monthly expenses, and all of your debts including the balance and interest rate.

[YolandoAmaya]

It would be better if you take a good financial advice from an expert about paying your debt. You can use following tips also:
1. Stop using your cards.
2. Pay as much as you can afford to each month.
3. Make cuts in your spending.
4. Double up on payments.
5. Tackle those debts with the highest interest rates first

[Eagle]

Ok guys,

Where can i go to get some financial advice about paying off my debts? I live in London UK and would like to get some opinions from you guys - have you had any good advice from one particular service? Did you go to your bank? Can the CAB really help with debt advice? Has anyone had it written off before?

Thanks in advance!

First you need to educate yourself. Debt consolidation services are not the answer. Knowledge is power. What books or articles have you read recently about debt reduction or personal finance?

[snafu]

Consolidation programs are very tricky. Most are 'for profit' agents who are clever at moving funds from your pocket to theirs and whose arrangements with creditors are no more effective than what you can negotiate for yourself. There are some government [taxpayer] funded programs that teach you the basics of money management. They've the power and authority to negotiate with creditors on your behalf mostly to stop interest being added to your existing balance and set equitable payment structures. If you miss a payment or miss a deadline, you are 'hung out to dry.' It's serious and you must be determined to resolve your financial problems. It has potential to add damage to your credit rating if your score is still in the average range.

Disney Steve explains how SA can help but are you willing to make changes? If married, is your wife onboard with paying off debt? Have you looked at how much interest you've paid to creditors since January 2014?

[Daniel88]

Have you tried the Money Advice service? Free, unbiased advice moneyadviceservice.org.uk/en (cant post links properly sorry)