When the bills do not add up, start here

If you’re worried about an essential bill

MoneyHelper's cost-of-living hub brings together urgent financial help, a bill prioritiser and free debt-advice routes. Use a specialist service to understand which payments need attention first in your circumstances.

Contact the provider or creditor and explain that you’re struggling. Ask what support, affordable arrangements or specialist team may be available. Don’t assume a new credit product is the answer.

Check support you may be missing

GOV.UK links to free independent benefits calculators. Having a job doesn’t by itself establish whether you can or can’t receive support: household circumstances, income and other rules matter.

Turn2us also offers a grants search. A result is a starting point to check eligibility, not a promise of an award.

Help varies across the UK

Local schemes, housing support and eligibility differ across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Use the guidance for your nation and check your council's current information.

In England, the Crisis and Resilience Fund covers April 2026 to March 2029. Searches and old articles may still refer to the earlier Household Support Fund. Check the current council scheme rather than relying on an old payment announcement.

You don’t need a perfect explanation

It’s enough to begin with “I’m struggling to pay this bill and I need help working out the next step.” Have the amount, due date and any reminder nearby if you can. If gathering paperwork feels difficult, ask the adviser what matters first rather than putting the conversation off until everything is organised.

Before the call ends, ask what you should do, by when, and what happens afterwards. Write down the answer in whatever way works for you. A short, clear action is more useful than several unfamiliar scheme names and no idea where to begin. Tell the service if you need help using its forms or understanding the information.

Free starting points

The sources below lead directly to MoneyHelper, Citizens Advice, the government's benefits-calculator directory and Turn2us. No IsMyPayRight payment or account is required. If you need individual advice, use the relevant specialist service.