Free debt advice
Last reviewed: 16 October 2026. How we source and verify.
If you are behind with bills or borrowing, free, independent advice is available. The services below do not charge, do not sell you anything and do not get paid by the companies you owe. We do not take commission from any debt service and we never will.
Be careful who you choose
Some companies advertise debt solutions and charge fees, or are paid by the firms they send you to. A free adviser has no reason to push you towards a particular product. If you are asked to pay up front, stop and get free advice first.
Breathing Space
Breathing Space is a debt respite scheme in England and Wales. It can pause action from creditors while you get advice. Ask a debt adviser whether it suits you; Scotland has its own protections, which an adviser can explain.
Check your benefits too
Debt is often easier to manage once you are claiming everything you are entitled to. The eligibility check on this site takes about five minutes and is free.
Free advice, alphabetically
Every service here is free and independent. They are listed alphabetically, not ranked.
- Citizens Advice — Free advice in person, by phone and online.
- MoneyHelper — Government-backed money guidance, including debt.
- National Debtline — Free debt advice by phone and online.
- StepChange Debt Charity — Free debt advice by phone and online.
Check what benefits you may be able to claim
It usually takes about 5 minutes. You do not need to create an account. This is guidance, not a government decision.
Sources
- StepChange Debt Charity — StepChange
- National Debtline — National Debtline
- Citizens Advice: debt and money — Citizens Advice
- MoneyHelper: dealing with debt — MoneyHelper
- GOV.UK: Breathing Space guidance — GOV.UK
This is independent guidance, not financial advice. Prices and eligibility change: always confirm on the official or provider page before you apply.