Money Advice

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 (c) Hillingdon and Ealing Citizens Advice

Credit is turning into debt for growing numbers of people; Hillingdon and Ealing Citizens Advice has, over the past six months, advised and assisted clients with housing and consumer problems.

Hillingdon and Ealing Citizens Advice provides expert help and advice to clients with debt problems whether it’s a problem with one large telephone bill, money owed on a credit card or a more serious debt where the client risks losing their home or being made bankrupt.

Debt can seem overwhelming and very frightening, especially when it seems that creditors are hounding you relentlessly and you can see no way of paying. In the face of the worrying increase in fee charging debt management companies, Hillingdon & Citizen’s Advice helps clients to negotiate with their Creditors and draw up realistic payment proposals.  Our advice service includes looking at the causes of the debt problem as well as providing benefit advice and representation and letter writing where necessary. If you are in debt or know someone who is please click on the following link Debt Self Help Guide and refer to the following key tips for dealing with debt.

CAB’s key tips for dealing with debt:

• Don’t panic – but don’t ignore the problem either – it won’t go away
• Don’t be tempted to take out more credit to pay off your debts – you may end up with a worse debt problem if you do
• Keep in touch with your creditors – don’t stop payments without explaining why
• Work out a budget which covers all your income and essential outgoings
• Make payment arrangements with your most important creditors first – these are the ones who could make you homeless, cut off your fuel supply or even put you in prison if you don’t pay – then negotiate with your other creditors
• Get free, confidential, impartial and independent advice from your local CAB

See also:-

www.nationaldebtline.co.uk - an online resource for clients.

Also www.debtline-online.co.uk. Please note you have to live in Norfolk to contact the number provided, but you are free to use the on-lines resources.

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We can offer you advice, information and assistance on managing your rent arrears and any other debts you may have.

We will aim to help you draw up a realistic weekly budget and debt repayment plan that will help to get you out of debt.

Our adviser will also help you identify if there are any ways of maximising your income such as by claiming extra benefits and Tax Credits.

Our service includes:
Challenging decisions relating to Housing Benefit, other Welfare Benefits and Tax Credit claims.

Help with claiming sickness and disability benefits and Tax Credits

Referrals to other agencies and sources of help