• Job Seekers Allowance - unemployed or been made redundant?
• Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit - if you have children or working but on a low income.
• Income Support - available to those on low incomes and who meet certain criteria relating to work, sickness, age, savings etc. Check with your local Department for Work and Pensions.
• Can grown-up children or non-dependants contribute towards the household expenses? 

Income maximisation is a very important part of the debt resolution process and creditors will want to be reassured that you have considered all the options.

For free help on dealing with debt call the Consumer Credit Counselling Service on 0800 1381111 or contact Credit Action (www.creditaction.org.uk). This guide does not constitute financial advice.