What can I do if I have debts?

Girlpower

The most important thing: Don't look away. Don't bury your head in the sand! If you don't do anything about the debt, it will increase very quickly. Open all letters and reminders and get support if you don't know what to do. We are here to help you!

Get an overview

Get an overview of your debts - who do you owe how much money to? Collect all letters and open bills.

Draw up a financial plan

Make a detailed list of your income and expenses.
Think about how and in what period of time you can realistically pay off your debts.

Arrange payment by instalments

It is important that you react quickly in this situation. Contact the creditors (i.e. all persons or companies to whom you owe money) and agree on an instalment payment. You can also ask them to waive the payment if you are not able to pay your debts at the moment.

It is important to keep to the given deadlines and time limits.

Get support

Talk to someone you trust about your debts and the worries they cause. It can happen to anyone to get into this situation, so there is nothing to be ashamed of. Get help and advice.

 

Dangerous debts

You need to pay off these debts as soon as possible (maybe in instalments):

  • Rent and energy arrears
  • Child support
  • Fines
  • Overdrafts

These debts can have very unpleasant consequences for you. You can lose your home. If you have unpaid fines, you could go to prison. If you have dangerous debts that you cannot pay off, get help and advice immediately.