Debts
When debt becomes a burden
Many people feel helpless in this situation and are ashamed to seek help. But debt doesn't have to mean the end of financial control. With the right support, debt can be reduced and avoided in the long term.
Signs that support is needed
- Dunning letters and payment reminders pile up - when letters from creditors or debt collection agencies regularly arrive in your letterbox.
- Account is blocked - when creditors seize the account, important expenses such as rent or food are at risk.
- Threat of electricity or gas cut-off - if energy bills are not paid and a cut-off is announced.
- Credit installments can no longer be serviced - if installments for loans or purchases can no longer be paid on time.
- Feeling overwhelmed and ashamed - if the pressure of debt becomes so great that you lose track or no longer dare to open the letterbox.
What you can do now
- Take advantage of advice: Go to a debtor advice center. There you will receive help with dealing with creditors, drawing up a debt relief plan and opening a seizure protection account.
- Create a financial overview: Make a note of your monthly income and expenditure. This will show you how much money you have available and where there is potential for savings.
- Sort documents: Collect all reminders, invoices, loan agreements and account statements. This will help the debtor counseling service to better understand your situation.
- Talk to creditors: In some cases, it may be useful to talk to creditors directly and make payment arrangements - ideally with the support of a counseling service.
Finding support: Where can I get help?
There are many contact points that offer support in dealing with debts - anonymously, free of charge and confidentially.
- Debtor advice centers: These centers offer comprehensive help with debts - from negotiating with creditors to assistance with personal insolvency.
- Social counselling centres: They not only provide advice on debts, but also on social benefits (such as citizen's allowance or housing benefit), which can stabilize your financial situation.
- Consumer advice centers: They provide information on rights vis-à-vis creditors and offer support with questions about reminders and debt collection letters.
Frequently asked questions about debt advice
Debtor advice centers offer free and confidential support. They help you get an overview of your financial situation, negotiate with creditors and find ways to settle your debts.
Stay calm and seek advice as soon as possible. Debtor advice can check whether the claims are justified and help you to negotiate installment payments or deferrals with creditors.
Yes, advice is also useful if you notice that your financial resources are no longer sufficient or you have initial payment difficulties. Early advice helps to avoid major problems.
Contact an advice center as soon as possible. In some cases, social welfare offices, job centers or charities can provide short-term support or find a solution with your landlord or energy supplier.
Let us advise you now!
You don't have to deal with debt alone. Debtor advice centers, consumer advice centers and social advice centers can help you keep track of your debts and draw up a debt relief plan. Get support.