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Debt can feel complicated enough without myths, assumptions or misinformation getting in the way. These myths can increase stress, cause confusion and even stop people from getting the help they need.

This guide breaks down some of the most common debt myths with clear explanations so you can feel confident about the facts and understand your options.

Myth 1: “If I live with my partner, I’m responsible for their debts”

Living with someone doesn’t make you legally responsible for their borrowing.

The facts:

  • You’re only responsible for debts that are in your name.
  • If your partner has debts in their own name, they alone are liable – even if you share a home or living costs.
  • You can support them emotionally or practically, but responsibility for their debt doesn’t transfer to you.

Myth 2: “With joint debts, I only owe my half”

Many people believe joint borrowing means a 50/50 split. In reality, joint debts work differently.

The facts:

  • When you take out a joint debt, you’re each responsible for the full balance. This is known as Joint & Several Liability.
  • If the other person doesn’t pay, the lender can legally ask you to repay the entire amount.
  • If you share borrowing, make sure you both have a clear plan for managing repayments.

Myth 3: “My debts will pass to my family when I die”

This myth causes unnecessary worry, especially for people concerned about their loved ones’ financial stability.

The facts:

  • Personal debts don’t pass to your family unless the debt is in joint names.
  • In some cases, repayments may come from your estate (for example, home equity), but your family won’t personally inherit your debt.

Myth 4: “My water supply can be cut off if I fall behind on bills”

With rising living costs, fear of losing essential services is understandable – but this worry is based on a misunderstanding.

The facts:

  • Water companies aren’t allowed to disconnect your home due to unpaid bills.
  • This rule is different to gas and electricity, where disconnection is possible in some circumstances.
  • Your supply can only be turned off for maintenance or emergency repairs – not because of debt.

Myth 5: “Debt collectors and bailiffs are the same”

These two roles are often confused, but they have very different powers.

The facts:

  • Debt collectors have no legal powers. They can’t take goods, enter your home, or force you to make a payment.
  • They may visit your home to ask you about repayment, but you don’t have to let them in.
  • Bailiffs (also called enforcement agents) work under a court order and follow strict rules.

Myth 6: “Bailiffs can force their way into my home”

This is one of the most worrying myths, but bailiffs can’t force entry for most debts.

The facts:

  • Bailiffs can only force entry in very limited circumstances, such as criminal fines or certain tax debts, and only with a warrant.
  • For common debts like council tax or parking fines, they can only enter peacefully, such as through an unlocked door.
  • They can’t force entry if the only person home is under 16.

We’re here to help

Debt myths can make an already stressful situation feel even harder. If you’re feeling unsure, overwhelmed or confused about your rights, you’re not alone – and support is always available.

We can help you understand your options and find a way forward.

Get debt help online or call us on 0800 316 1833 for a confidential conversation.