Finding yourself in deep financial trouble is not a very good situation to be in. The thing that makes this a common occurrence, however, is the reliance of most people on credit cards. Most individuals have a couple or more credit card accounts. Just imagine how confusing it must be for you to keep up with the different due dates of these bills, especially when you add the other loans that you have like your mortgage loan or car loan. Mounting debt is the result and fortunately, there is one solution that you can rely on to resolve the situation and this is debt management.
To give you more of an idea about why it pays to consider debt management as a solution for your financial woes, here is a list of some frequently asked questions about it, as well as the corresponding answers:
What is a debt management plan?
A debt management plan is an informal agreement which is negotiated for you by a debt management company. Its aim is to help lower the monthly fees and the interest rates on your bill so that you can get back on your feet financially.
In which situations are debt management plans suitable?
When you are able to pay a portion of your monthly credit card bills but are unable to pay off all of it, following a debt management plan may just work for you. You must have unsecured debts to a few different companies and have enough income to leave you some money to pay towards your debts each month.
How does debt management work?
Once you get in touch with a debt management company, a representative will assess your overall financial picture. He or she will determine the number of creditors that you have, how much you owe to each one and what other commitments you have. This will then be compared against your monthly income. An amount that you can afford to pay each month will be calculated, then the payments will be divided fairly between all your creditors. Although the creditors are under no obligation to agree to the debt management plan, they will usually do so because it is the most diplomatic way of getting their investment back.
What are the benefits of getting into a debt management agreement?
The good thing about coming up with a debt management plan is that you can sort of consolidate all your debts into just one payment, with a smaller monthly payment and interest rate. This will give you a chance to get back on your feet financially.
Are there any disadvantages?
Keep in mind that even if the representative from the debt management company was able to negotiate lower monthly payments for you, this means that you are basically agreeing to pay your debts over a longer period of time. This equates to your paying more in terms of interest, which is a reasonable sacrifice to make considering the fact that you are given a greater leeway in the form of lower monthly payments.
Will it hurt my credit?
Joining a program to manage your debts does not in itself have an impact on your credit score and neither does negotiating lower rates with your creditors. The only time that the plan will have an effect on your credit is when payments to creditors are withheld.
How do I look for a good debt management plan provider?
Not all debt management plans are created equal and unfortunately there are some companies that can not be relied upon to give you good advice. With the help of a credit counsellor, you can have a debt management plan created which is suitable for you. When looking for one, make sure that the company does not merely offer a one size fits all approach in managing debt. Instead, the overall picture of your finances should be properly assessed. Remember to ask about the fees that you will be charged. Read the fine print of the contract before signing your name on the dotted line. There are also some counsellors who will require you to agree not to open new credit card accounts, which is for your own benefit, so that you will learn how to manage your finances more efficiently in the future.
When using the services of a debt management plan provider, information is your number one ally. By learning as much as you can about debt management plans, how they work and what their pros and cons are, you can make an informed decision and see for yourself whether it is the best step for you to get out of the financial mess that you are in.
UK residents can apply for debt help now using the online form at the bottom of this page. Alternatively, view the list of recommended UK debt management companies.
You can apply for a debt management plan, IVA, Trust Deed or consolidation loan through our approved debt advisor, 123 Debt Solutions. You will be contacted by An advisor to go through your situation.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage, loan or any other debt secured on it. Think carefully before securing other debts against your home.