Struggling Financially - Help and Support | Ulster Bank

If you're not sure you have a debt problem, ask yourself the questions below. They are the classic financial warning signs:

• You're regularly spending more than you earn
• You're struggling to pay your mortgage or rent, utility bills or minimum payments on your loans or credit cards
• Several of your cards are maxed out
• You can't manage day-to-day without relying on your credit card
• You're being contacted about unpaid bills and missed payments
• You're worried about paying back what you owe and your debts feel like a huge burden

There are lots of organisations that offer free, confidential advice to help you get back on track, including the Citizens Information Board and Legal Aid Board. You can also get advice tailored to your situation from the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) using their free online tools. You don’t have to enter your name and it only takes about 20 minutes. Be wary of using any companies that charge fees for help. If you do, it may take you longer to pay off your debts. 

Things to think about

It’s worth getting together some information before you call anyone to talk about your situation. Most organisations will ask about your income, your household expenses, how much you owe and who you owe it to.