Debt management tips - Top 20 tips to Beat Debt
1 - Check whether you're entitled to any additional benefits such as Jobseeker's Allowance, Maternity Benefit, Income Support or Working Family Tax Credit.
2 - Check whether you're entitled to any help with rent or Council Tax.
3 - Reduce electricity bills by not leaving appliances on standby. Switch off lights when not in use. Lower the thermostats on radiators to reduce heating costs.
4 - If you are unemployed or unable to work through illness check if you have payment protection insurance on your mortgage, loans or credit cards; you may be able to have your payments made for you.
5 - Supermarkets' own brands can often be just as good as the well-known brands but cheaper.
6 - Shop once a week and plan your food. Preparing packed lunches could save around £50.00 per month. Freeze left-over food and re-use.
7 - Cut down on eating out and take-aways.
8 - Drive a small economical car and save on insurance, tax and fuel.
9 - Instead of using the car for short journeys, consider walking, using a bike or public transport. This will save a surprising amount of money while also improving your fitness and health.
10 - Use your local library for books, CDs, DVDs and videos.
11 - Enjoy family activities that don't cost money. Many museums, galleries and parks are free and make great days out.
12 - Don't browse around shops and stores; make a shopping list and stick to it.
13 - Try to cut down on cigarettes or, if you can, give them up completely.
If you need help in stopping smoking http://www.gosmokefree.co.uk provides advice and tips on quitting cigarettes.
14 - Sell unwanted items in the local classifieds or on the Internet - many newspapers offer free advertisements.
15 - Cut down on nights out and drink alcohol in moderation.
16 - Look how to gain study grants. You may be able to study part time to improve your prospects while you work.
17 - Research childcare in your area. There may be council/church-run nurseries and sometimes grants are available. Use family whenever possible for baby-sitting.
18 - Check for work opportunities closer to home. Consider the additional costs of your job e.g. childcare, travel time and expense.
19 - Reduce monthly subscriptions to mobile phones, Internet and satellite television.
20 - Take holidays at off-peak times and choose less expensive packages e.g. self catering.
- Debt Management Programme
- Individual Voluntary Arrangements
- Trust Deeds for Scottish residents
- Bad credit bank accounts
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