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If you’re thinking about getting support with your finances, but aren’t sure of the process, feel nervous or don’t know what to expect, you’re not alone.

We understand that, for a lot of people, reaching out is often the hardest step, especially when you’re already dealing with stress, uncertainty or the rising cost of living.  

To make things easier for you, we’ve put together a step-by-step guide that gives you an idea of what happens when you reach out for our support.

It’s designed to give you a clear picture of:

  • how we work
  • what you can expect when you contact us
  • how we’re able to support you every step of the way on your journey to becoming debt free

Whether you’re just looking at exploring potential options, or know you’re ready to act, we’ll meet you wherever you’re at. This means no fuss and no judgement, just practical solutions you can move forward with at your own pace.  

Step 1: Reach out, your way  

We’ve got many ways for you to get in touch with us, so you can choose the way that works best for you:

Step 2: What information will I need to provide?

Whether it’s credit cards, bills or general money worries – we’ll ask a few questions, so we understand the full picture. We’ll ask things like:

  • How much you owe
  • Who your creditors are
  • Your income and expenses
  • Any assets you have

Everything you share is confidential and treated with care. We’re here to help, not to judge.

Step 3: Build a simple budget together

We’ll go through your income and spending to understand what’s realistically affordable for you. This includes:

  • Wages, benefits, bills, travel and childcare
  • Grocery and living costs
  • Subscriptions and day-to-day spending

This helps us to work out what’s affordable for you and what kind of debt solution could work best for you.

We know that talking about money can feel uncomfortable, but it’s important to be as open and accurate as you can.

Step 4: Explore suitable options

At this point, we should have a complete picture of your situation, and we can talk you through the options available to you. We’ll walk you through:

  • What each option means
  • How it works day-to-day
  • Any fees or next steps
  • What’s best suited to you

We’ll give you space to think, ask questions and make decisions at your own pace.

Step 5: Decide how you want to move forward

Once we’ve talked through your options, we’ll help you choose the right next step – whether that’s a managed plan or another type of support.

Some people go ahead with a plan that we manage for them. Others may be better suited to a different kind of solution, like either insolvency, debt relief orders (DROs), repayment arrangements (RAs), bankruptcy, or depending on where in the UK you are, one of our Scottish solutions.  Whatever your path, we’ll guide you through it.

Here’s what that might look like:

  • If you’re opting for a Debt Management Plan (DMP), we can manage this in-house. Our friendly advisors will walk you through each step and keep you supported throughout.
  • If you’re entering an into an insolvency agreement, we’ll refer to our specialist teams:
    • PayPlan Partnership Limited for non-self-employed Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVAs)
    • PayPlan Bespoke Solutions Limited if you’re self-employed
  • If you’re in one of our Scottish solutions, you’ll be supported by PayPlan Scotland – they’re experts in whichever solution you choose.

Once you’ve made a decision, we’ll get everything set up. Most of the time, we’ll contact you by phone, email or WhatsApp – whichever suits you best.

And even if your solution isn’t something we manage directly, we’ll still be here to guide and support you through it.

Start your free debt advice journey today with PayPlan

Whether you’re exploring options or ready to act, we’re here with confidential, expert advice. You don’t have to face this alone.