Updated for 2026

If you have ever paid a monthly fee for your bank account, you may have been sold a product you did not need, did not want, or were never properly told about. Mis-sold packaged bank accounts remain one of the largest consumer finance scandals in the UK, and in 2026 you can still make a claim to recover the money you lost.

What Are Packaged Bank Accounts?

A packaged bank account is a current account that comes bundled with extras such as travel insurance, mobile phone cover, breakdown assistance, or identity theft protection. You pay a monthly fee, typically between £10 and £25, in exchange for these added benefits.

On the surface, that sounds reasonable. The problem is that millions of people were sold these accounts without being told the full picture. Staff were under pressure to hit sales targets, and customers were frequently signed up to products that offered little or no real value to them.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has been clear that banks had a duty to ensure customers understood what they were buying. When that duty was not met, the sale counts as mis-selling.

How Were Packaged Bank Accounts Mis-Sold?

There is no single way this happened. Mis-selling took many forms, and the banks involved ranged from high street names to smaller building societies. Here are the most common scenarios.

You Were Told It Was Compulsory

One of the most widespread tactics was telling customers that a packaged account was required in order to get a mortgage, loan, or overdraft. This was untrue. Free alternatives existed, but staff either failed to mention them or actively steered you away from asking.

If you took out a packaged account because you believed there was no other option, you were mis-sold.

The Benefits Did Not Apply to You

Many packaged accounts included travel insurance with age limits or medical exclusions. If you were over 65, had a pre-existing condition, or simply never travelled abroad, those benefits were worthless to you. Staff should have checked your eligibility before completing the sale. In many cases, they did not.

You Were Pressured Into Buying

Bank staff faced intense pressure from management to sell packaged accounts. That pressure was passed on to customers through high-pressure sales tactics, repeated follow-ups, and implied consequences for declining. Since March 2013, this approach has been prohibited by law, but millions of accounts were sold before those rules came into force.

It Was Added Without Your Knowledge

Some customers only discovered they had been paying for a packaged account after trawling through old bank statements. Fees of £10 to £25 per month may not stand out immediately, but over several years those payments add up to hundreds or even thousands of pounds. If a packaged account was added to your current account without your explicit consent, that is mis-selling.

Can You Still Claim for Mis-Sold Packaged Bank Accounts in 2026?

Yes. Unlike PPI, which had a strict August 2019 deadline, there is currently no cut-off date for packaged bank account complaints. You can make a claim directly to your bank, and if they reject it or fail to respond within eight weeks, you can escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service.

The Ombudsman has upheld a significant proportion of packaged bank account complaints in recent years. If you have a genuine case, the odds are in your favour.

How Much Could You Get Back?

The amount depends on how long you held the account and what you paid each month. Someone who paid £15 per month for ten years, for example, would have spent £1,800 in fees alone. Add interest on top and the total refund can be considerably higher.

Some claimants have received payouts in excess of £5,000. Even if your monthly fee was modest, the cumulative cost over several years is often more than people expect.

How to Check If You Have Been Affected

Start by looking at your bank statements. If you see a recurring monthly charge labelled as an account fee, packaged account, or premium account, you likely held one of these products. You do not need to be a current customer of the bank to make a claim, and you can complain about accounts you closed years ago.

Ask yourself these questions:

• Were you told the account was needed to access another product?
• Did the insurance benefits actually apply to your circumstances?
• Were you given a clear explanation of the costs and what was included?
• Did you feel pressured or rushed during the sale?
• Was the account added without you asking for it?

If the answer to any of those is yes, you should look into making a complaint.

What to Do Next

Gathering your evidence is the first step. Pull together any bank statements, letters, or correspondence related to the account. If you no longer have these, your bank is legally required to provide transaction records upon request.

You can complain directly to the bank yourself at no cost. Write a clear letter explaining why you believe the account was mis-sold, referencing the specific circumstances from the list above. The bank then has eight weeks to respond.

If you would rather have professional guidance through the process, get in touch with our team. We have helped thousands of people across England and Wales recover money from debts and financial products that should never have been sold to them.

Mis-Sold Packaged Bank Accounts and Your Wider Finances

For many people, the monthly cost of a packaged account was just one of several financial pressures. If you are also dealing with personal debt, credit card balances, or arrears on household bills, recovering money from a mis-sold account could provide meaningful relief.

Equally, if the mis-selling contributed to financial difficulty, perhaps you took on the account fee believing it was required for a loan, and the combined cost pushed you into arrears, that context strengthens your complaint.

If you are unsure where to start or feel overwhelmed by multiple debts, free debt advice is available and can help you prioritise what to tackle first.

Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Council Tax Advisors is not authorised or regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. If you need regulated financial advice, please consult a qualified professional. Your individual circumstances may vary, and you should seek independent advice before making financial decisions.

Need Help With a Mis-Sold Packaged Bank Account?

Our experienced advisors can guide you through the claims process and help you recover the money you are owed. Get in touch today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

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Updated for 2026

Gas bill debt is one of the most common financial pressures facing UK households right now. With energy prices remaining stubbornly high despite the end of the worst price spikes, millions of people are still falling behind on their gas payments. If you owe money on your gas bill, you are far from alone, and there are practical steps you can take to regain control of your finances.

Whether you have missed a single payment or built up months of arrears, acting sooner rather than later makes a real difference. Energy companies have a legal obligation to work with you on a repayment plan, and free debt advice services exist specifically to help people in your position. This guide covers everything you need to know about managing energy arrears in 2026.

Why Gas Bill Debt Has Become So Widespread

The energy crisis that gripped the UK from 2022 onwards pushed gas prices to record levels. Although the Ofgem price cap has come down from its peak, typical household energy bills in 2026 still sit well above pre-crisis levels. For anyone on a low or fixed income, that increase has been devastating.

According to Ofgem, around 4.5 million households were in energy debt at the start of 2026. That figure includes people on prepayment meters who self-disconnect because they cannot afford to top up, as well as those on credit meters with growing arrears.

Several factors drive gas bill debt beyond just high unit prices. Job losses, reduced working hours, unexpected household costs and the rising price of food and essentials all squeeze the money available for bills. When something has to give, energy payments are often the first to slip.

If you are dealing with multiple types of debt, gas arrears can feel like just one problem among many. Prioritising your debts correctly is essential, and energy debt is generally classed as a priority debt because your supply could be affected.

Your Rights When You Owe Money on Your Gas Bill

Many people worry about having their gas supply cut off, but disconnection is actually very rare. Under Ofgem rules, your energy supplier cannot disconnect you during winter (1 October to 31 March) if you are of pensionable age, disabled, chronically ill or have children under five living in the property.

Even outside those protections, suppliers must follow a strict process before disconnection. They need to offer you a repayment plan, give you proper notice, and install a prepayment meter before cutting you off entirely. In practice, most suppliers would rather agree a payment arrangement than go through the costly process of disconnection.

You also have the right to request a repayment plan you can actually afford. Suppliers should take your income and essential outgoings into account when setting repayment amounts. If you feel the amount proposed is too high, you can push back and negotiate.

The Citizens Advice Bureau can help you understand your full rights and even contact your supplier on your behalf if you are struggling to reach an agreement.

Practical Steps to Tackle Gas Bill Debt

The single most important thing you can do is contact your gas supplier. Ignoring letters and final demands only makes things worse. When you call, explain your situation honestly and ask what options are available. Most suppliers have dedicated hardship teams trained to deal with exactly this.

Here is a straightforward plan to follow:

First, work out exactly how much you owe. Check your most recent statement and call your supplier to confirm the total balance. Sometimes estimated bills can inflate the figure, so ask for an accurate meter reading to be taken.

Second, create a simple household budget. List your income from all sources, then subtract your essential costs: rent or mortgage, council tax, food, transport and minimum debt payments. The amount left is what you can realistically put towards your gas arrears each month.

Third, contact your supplier and propose a repayment amount based on your budget. They may suggest a higher figure initially, but you are within your rights to negotiate. Having a written budget to refer to strengthens your position.

Fourth, check whether you qualify for any grants or support schemes. The Warm Home Discount, Winter Fuel Payment and Cold Weather Payment all provide help with energy costs. Many suppliers also run their own hardship funds that can write off part of your debt entirely.

Finally, consider switching to a prepayment meter if managing a monthly bill feels overwhelming. Prepayment meters let you pay as you go, which removes the anxiety of a big quarterly bill. Your supplier can also set up the meter to collect a small amount towards your arrears with each top-up.

How Gas Bill Debt Affects Your Credit Score

Energy debt can appear on your credit file if your supplier passes the account to a debt collection agency or if a County Court Judgment (CCJ) is issued against you. Once that happens, it stays on your record for six years and can make it harder to get credit, a mortgage or even a mobile phone contract.

The good news is that if you set up a repayment plan with your supplier before things escalate, it typically will not affect your credit score. Suppliers generally only report debt to credit reference agencies after the account has been in default for some time and attempts to resolve it have failed.

If you are already dealing with wider personal debt issues, getting on top of your gas arrears early prevents them from snowballing into a bigger credit problem down the line.

Reducing Your Gas Usage to Prevent Future Debt

Once you have dealt with your existing arrears, keeping your ongoing bills manageable is the next priority. Small changes to how you use gas can add up to significant savings over a year.

Turning your thermostat down by just one degree can cut your heating bill by around 10%. Bleeding your radiators ensures they heat up properly and do not waste energy. Draught-proofing doors and windows costs very little but makes a noticeable difference, particularly in older properties.

Using a smart thermostat or a programmable timer means your heating only runs when you actually need it. Heating an empty house all day is one of the biggest drivers of unnecessarily high gas bills.

If your boiler is old and inefficient, you may qualify for a grant towards a replacement through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme. While the upfront cost of a new boiler is significant, the ongoing savings can be substantial.

For more ideas on cutting your energy bills, our dedicated guide walks you through the most effective changes you can make today.

When to Seek Professional Debt Advice

If your gas bill debt is part of a larger financial problem, professional debt advice can make a real difference. Organisations like StepChange and MoneyHelper offer completely free, confidential advice. They can negotiate with your creditors, set up a debt management plan, or advise on formal solutions like an Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA) if your debts have become unmanageable.

You should seek advice urgently if you are receiving threats of court action, if bailiffs have been instructed, or if you are struggling to afford basic necessities like food and housing. These are signs that the situation has moved beyond something you can manage alone.

Council Tax Advisors also provides free debt guidance for people dealing with energy arrears alongside council tax and other priority debts. Our team can help you understand your options and take the right steps.

Council Tax Advisors provides free information and guidance on debt-related matters. We are not authorised or regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and do not provide regulated financial advice. If you need advice on specific financial products or regulated debt solutions such as Individual Voluntary Arrangements, you should consult an FCA-authorised adviser. The information on this page is for general guidance only and should not be treated as a substitute for professional financial advice.

Get Free Help With Gas Bill Debt Today

If energy arrears are causing you stress, do not put it off any longer. Our team can help you understand your options and take back control of your finances, completely free of charge.

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Updated for 2026

An attachment of earnings for council tax is one of the most common ways a local council in England or Wales can recover money you owe. If you have fallen behind on your council tax payments and your council has obtained a liability order against you, they can instruct your employer to deduct money directly from your wages. The deducted amount goes straight to the council before your pay reaches your bank account, and for many people this comes as an unwelcome surprise.

What Is an Attachment of Earnings for Council Tax?

This is a legal mechanism set out in the Council Tax (Administration and Enforcement) Regulations 1992. It allows your local authority to bypass you entirely and collect what you owe through your employer.

Unlike enforcement for private debts such as credit cards or personal loans, which typically require a County Court Judgement, an attachment of earnings order for council tax does not need a separate court hearing. Once the council holds a liability order, they can apply for the wage deduction without going back to court.

Your employer receives a formal notice and is legally obligated to comply. There is no discretion here: your employer must make the deductions or face penalties.

How the Attachment of Earnings Process Works

The process follows a set sequence. Your council will have already sent reminder notices, a final notice, and then applied to the magistrates’ court for a liability order. Once that order is in place, the council can take enforcement action, and wage deductions are one of the first options they tend to use if you are employed.

Here is what happens in practice:

• The council sends an attachment of earnings order to your employer, specifying the debt amount
• Your employer calculates the deduction based on your net earnings using the government’s fixed percentage table
• The deducted amount is paid directly to the council each pay period
• Your employer can charge an administrative fee of £1 per deduction
• Deductions continue until the full debt, including any court costs, is cleared

You should receive a copy of the order, but councils do not always send this promptly. If money starts disappearing from your pay without warning, contact your council immediately to confirm whether an earnings deduction has been applied.

How Much Can Be Deducted from Your Wages?

The deduction rates are set by Schedule 4 of the Council Tax (Administration and Enforcement) Regulations 1992. They are based on your net earnings and apply as fixed percentage bands. For monthly-paid employees, the current rates are:

• Net earnings up to £300 per month: 0% (no deduction)
• £300 to £550: 3%
• £550 to £740: 5%
• £740 to £900: 7%
• £900 to £1,420: 12%
• £1,420 to £2,020: 17%
• Over £2,020: 17% on the first £2,020, then 50% on any amount above that

For weekly-paid employees, the equivalent bands apply: no deduction below £75 per week, rising to 17% between £355 and £505, and 17% plus 50% on earnings above £505.

These percentages can take a serious chunk out of your take-home pay. If you earn £1,800 per month net, for example, 17% means losing £306 each month. If deductions leave you unable to cover rent, food, or other essential bills, you need to act quickly.

Will Your Employer Find Out About Your Council Tax Debt?

Yes. This type of order means your employer will be told about the debt. This is one of the most stressful aspects for many people, as it can feel like a breach of privacy. Your employer is legally required to process the order, but they should treat the information as confidential.

In practice, your payroll department will handle the deduction. Most employers process these routinely and without judgement, but it is understandable that you might feel uncomfortable about it.

It is worth knowing that your employer cannot dismiss you or take disciplinary action because of an earnings order. If you experience any negative treatment at work as a result, that could amount to unfair treatment and you may have grounds for a complaint.

What If You Are Self-Employed?

An attachment of earnings for council tax can only be used against employees. If you are self-employed, a contractor, or receive income through dividends rather than PAYE, the council cannot use this method.

Instead, your council is likely to pursue other enforcement routes. These might include sending enforcement agents (bailiffs) to your property, applying for a charging order against your home, or in serious cases, initiating bankruptcy proceedings.

Can You Challenge or Stop the Deductions?

You cannot appeal an attachment of earnings order in the same way you might appeal a court judgement. However, there are steps you can take.

Contact your council and explain your financial situation. While councils are not required to reduce the deductions, many will consider setting up an alternative repayment plan if you engage with them directly. This is particularly likely if you can demonstrate genuine hardship.

You should also check whether the underlying council tax charge is correct. Errors in your council tax band or bill are more common than most people realise. If your property has been placed in the wrong valuation band, or you have not received discounts or exemptions you are entitled to, challenging the original amount could lead to the deductions being reduced or removed entirely.

If you believe you are entitled to council tax support or a reduction, applying for this could also lower what you owe and affect the enforcement action.

What Happens If You Change Jobs?

If you leave your current employment, the attachment of earnings order lapses because there is no employer to make deductions from. However, this does not mean the debt goes away. Your council will simply pursue other enforcement methods, or apply a new order with your next employer once they identify where you are working.

Councils can use data from HMRC to trace your employment, so changing jobs to avoid the deductions is not a viable long-term strategy. It is far better to engage with your council and negotiate a manageable arrangement.

Attachment of Earnings vs Other Enforcement Methods

Wage deductions are just one tool in the council’s enforcement toolkit. After obtaining a liability order, your council can also:

• Deduct money from certain benefits, including Universal Credit, Employment and Support Allowance, and Pension Credit
• Instruct enforcement agents to visit your property and seize goods
• Apply for a charging order against your property
• Apply to commit you to prison for up to three months (in extreme cases where wilful refusal to pay is established)

Of these options, an earnings order is generally considered one of the less aggressive routes. It avoids bailiff visits and the associated fees, which can add hundreds of pounds to your debt. If given a choice, many advisors suggest that wage deductions, while inconvenient, are preferable to escalating enforcement action.

How Council Tax Advisors Can Help

If you are dealing with an attachment of earnings for council tax, or you have received a liability order and are worried about what comes next, Council Tax Advisors can help. Our team can:

• Negotiate with your council to arrange an alternative repayment plan that works for your budget
• Review whether the original liability order was obtained correctly and whether there are grounds to challenge it
• Check whether the deduction rates applied to your earnings are accurate
• Help you access council tax support or reductions you may be entitled to
• Provide guidance on your options if you are self-employed or have multiple debts

Our service is completely free and confidential. Get in touch today for help with council tax arrears and enforcement action.

Related Guides

• What Happens if I Don’t Pay My Council Tax Arrears?
• Council Tax Bailiffs
• Council Tax Court Cases
• In Council Tax Debt? Steps to Take Control

This article provides general information only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. If you are struggling with debt, free and confidential support is available from StepChange or Citizens Advice.

Updated for 2026

If your utility bills have climbed sharply over the past few years, you are far from alone. Millions of UK households are spending more on gas and electricity than ever before, and for many, the knock-on effect is falling behind on other essential payments, including council tax. Understanding the link between rising utility bills and council tax debt is the first step towards getting back in control of your finances.

Why Utility Bills Have Risen So Sharply

The energy price cap set by Ofgem has fluctuated considerably since 2022. Although wholesale gas prices have come down from their 2022/23 peak, the typical household energy bill in 2026 still sits well above pre-crisis levels. According to Ofgem’s latest figures, the average annual dual fuel bill remains around £1,738 under the Q1 2026 price cap.

Standing charges continue to be a point of frustration. Even households that use very little energy still face daily fixed costs simply for being connected to the grid. For people on low incomes or prepayment meters, these charges eat into already tight budgets.

Network upgrades, the transition to renewable infrastructure, and legacy costs from supplier failures during the energy crisis all contribute to bills staying elevated. None of these costs are going away any time soon.

The Connection Between Utility Bills and Council Tax Debt

When your energy costs jump by hundreds of pounds a year, something else in the budget has to give. For many households, council tax is the bill that slips. Unlike energy, where your supply can be cut off relatively quickly, council tax arrears build up more quietly, often without immediate visible consequences.

That delayed impact is dangerous. By the time your council sends a reminder, you could already owe several months. Miss the payment window after a reminder and your council can apply for a liability order at the magistrates’ court. Once that order is granted, the full year’s balance becomes payable immediately, and enforcement action, including bailiffs, can follow.

Research from StepChange consistently shows that council tax is one of the most common debts among people seeking free debt advice. Their 2024 statistics report found that council tax arrears featured in over 40% of cases. The charity has noted that utility cost increases are a frequent trigger for people falling behind on priority debts like council tax.

Priority Debts: Why Council Tax Comes First

Not all debts carry the same consequences. Council tax is classified as a priority debt because the penalties for non-payment are severe. Your council has powers that most creditors do not, including the ability to:

• Apply for a liability order without your consent or attendance
• Instruct enforcement agents (bailiffs) to visit your home
• Make deductions directly from your wages or benefits
• In extreme cases, apply for a committal hearing that could lead to imprisonment

Energy debts, while serious, do not carry the same enforcement powers. This is why debt charities like MoneyHelper and Citizens Advice recommend prioritising council tax payments above utility arrears where possible.

Practical Steps to Reduce Your Utility Bills

Bringing your energy costs down frees up money for priority debts. Here are some practical steps that can make a real difference in 2026:

Switch tariff or supplier. The energy market is competitive again. Use Ofgem-accredited comparison services to check whether you are on the best deal. Fixed-rate tariffs can protect you from future price cap increases. If you have not switched in over a year, you are almost certainly overpaying.

Check your entitlements. The Warm Home Discount scheme provides a £150 rebate on electricity bills for eligible low-income households. The Winter Fuel Payment continues for pensioners meeting the revised eligibility criteria. Your energy supplier may also offer hardship funds or emergency credit if you are on a prepayment meter.

Use less energy. Simple changes add up: draught-proofing, turning your thermostat down by one degree (saving roughly £145 a year according to the Energy Saving Trust), using a slow cooker instead of the oven, and washing clothes at 30°C. LED bulbs use 90% less energy than old incandescent ones.

Get a smart meter. Seeing your usage in real time helps you identify where energy is being wasted. Smart meters are free from your supplier and give you accurate bills rather than estimates.

Check for insulation grants. The Great British Insulation Scheme and ECO4 (Energy Company Obligation) provide free or subsidised insulation for qualifying households. Proper loft and cavity wall insulation can cut heating bills by up to £580 a year according to the Energy Saving Trust.

What to Do If You Already Owe Council Tax

If rising utility costs have already pushed you into council tax arrears, act quickly. The sooner you contact your council, the more options are available:

Ask for a payment arrangement. Most councils will agree to a repayment plan if you get in touch before enforcement action begins. Be realistic about what you can afford, factoring in your current utility costs.

Apply for Council Tax Reduction. If your income has dropped or your circumstances have changed, you may qualify for a discount of up to 100%. Each council runs its own scheme, so check your local authority’s website or call them directly. You can find more detail in our guide to council tax support and how to reduce your bill.

Check whether you qualify for a discount or exemption. Single person discount (25% off), student exemption, severe mental impairment discount, and carer discounts are all commonly unclaimed. If your circumstances have changed since you last updated your council, you could be entitled to a reduction you did not know about.

Get free debt advice. If you are juggling multiple debts alongside utility bills and council tax, free advice from organisations like StepChange, Citizens Advice, or National Debtline can help you work out a realistic budget and deal with creditors on your behalf.

How a Budget Can Keep You Out of Trouble

The households that manage to stay on top of both utility bills and council tax almost always share one thing in common: they have a budget. It does not need to be complicated. A simple list of your monthly income against your fixed outgoings (rent or mortgage, council tax, energy, water, food, transport) shows you exactly where the pressure points are.

If your fixed costs exceed your income, that is a clear sign you need to seek advice. A debt management plan or formal arrangement could reduce what you pay each month to a level you can sustain.

Budgeting tools are available free from MoneyHelper, and many banks now offer spending categorisation within their apps. The key is knowing your numbers before a crisis hits, not after.

Looking Ahead: What 2026 Holds for Household Bills

Ofgem reviews the energy price cap quarterly. Analysts expect modest fluctuations through 2026, but no return to the very low prices households enjoyed before 2021. Council tax bills are also rising, with the average Band D bill in England increasing by around 5% for the 2026/27 financial year following the government’s decision to allow councils to raise bills by up to 5% without a referendum.

The combination of higher energy costs and rising council tax means household budgets will remain under pressure. If you are already stretched, the time to act is now, before arrears accumulate and enforcement options narrow.

This article provides general information only and does not constitute financial advice. If you are struggling with debt, please contact a free debt advice service such as StepChange or Citizens Advice for guidance tailored to your circumstances.

Creditor Harassment: Know Your Rights and How to Stop It

Updated for 2026

If you owe money and a creditor keeps calling at all hours, sending threatening letters, or turning up at your door, you might be experiencing creditor harassment. You are not powerless in this situation. The law in England and Wales gives you clear protections, and understanding your rights is the first step towards making the calls and letters stop. This guide explains what counts as harassment, which laws protect you, and what practical steps you can take right now.

What Counts as Creditor Harassment?

There is a big difference between a creditor contacting you to recover a debt and a creditor deliberately causing you distress. Legitimate debt collection is allowed, but certain behaviours cross the line. You may be experiencing creditor harassment if a company or individual is doing any of the following:

• Contacting you at unreasonable times, such as very early in the morning or late at night
• Calling your workplace repeatedly, especially after you have asked them to stop
• Using threatening or abusive language on the phone or in letters
• Sending letters designed to look like court documents when they are not
• Discussing your debt with neighbours, family members, or colleagues without your permission
• Falsely claiming that non-payment will result in criminal prosecution
• Pressuring you into paying more than you can afford or taking on additional borrowing to clear the debt

If any of these sound familiar, you have every right to challenge the behaviour. Debt collectors and creditors must follow strict rules, and breaking them can have serious consequences for the company involved.

The Laws That Protect You From Creditor Harassment

Administration of Justice Act 1970

Section 40 of the Administration of Justice Act 1970 makes it a criminal offence for a creditor to harass you when trying to recover a debt. This means they cannot make demands for payment that are designed to cause alarm, distress, or humiliation because of how often they contact you, how publicly they do it, or the manner they use. It is also illegal for a creditor to pretend to be a court official, a bailiff, or any other authority figure. Sending documents that look like they have come from a court is another offence under this act.

Protection from Harassment Act 1997

The Protection from Harassment Act 1997 goes further. It makes it a criminal offence for anyone to pursue a course of conduct that they know, or ought to know, amounts to harassment. This covers repeated phone calls, aggressive letters, visits to your home, and contact through third parties. If a creditor’s behaviour would cause a reasonable person to feel harassed, then it likely qualifies under this act. You can also apply for a civil injunction under this law, which orders the creditor to stop.

FCA Consumer Credit Sourcebook (CONC)

The Financial Conduct Authority regulates most consumer credit firms in the UK. Its Consumer Credit Sourcebook (CONC 7.3) sets out detailed rules about how debt collectors must treat you. They must not contact you at unreasonable times or in unreasonable ways. They must not pressure you into paying debts with money you need for essentials such as rent, food, or council tax. They must treat you with fairness and respect, particularly if you are vulnerable. Firms that breach CONC rules can face enforcement action, fines, and loss of their FCA authorisation.

How to Stop Creditor Harassment: Step by Step

Taking action against creditor harassment does not require a solicitor. Here is what you can do yourself, starting today.

1. Keep a Record of Everything

Write down the date, time, and content of every phone call, visit, or letter. Save text messages and emails. If a creditor calls you, note what was said and whether they were threatening or aggressive. This evidence is essential if you need to make a formal complaint or take legal action later.

2. Write a Formal Complaint

Send a written complaint to the creditor or debt collection agency. State clearly that you believe their behaviour amounts to harassment. Reference the specific laws or guidelines they are breaking. Ask them to contact you only in writing going forward. Send this by recorded delivery so you have proof it was received.

3. Report to the Financial Ombudsman Service

If the creditor is regulated by the FCA and does not resolve your complaint within eight weeks, you can escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service. The ombudsman can order the firm to pay compensation and change its practices.

4. Contact the Police

If a creditor’s behaviour is seriously threatening or you feel unsafe, contact the police. Harassment is a criminal offence under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997. The police can issue a harassment warning or pursue a prosecution.

5. Get Free Debt Advice

Organisations like StepChange and MoneyHelper offer free, confidential debt advice. They can help you set up affordable repayment plans, write to creditors on your behalf, and guide you through formal debt solutions if needed. You can also read our guide to free debt advice in the UK for more options.

What Creditors Are Not Allowed to Do

Beyond the general rules above, there are specific practices that are considered unfair under FCA guidelines and UK law. A creditor must not:

• Add excessive charges or fees to your account without clear justification
• Refuse to deal with a debt adviser acting on your behalf
• Ignore a reasonable repayment offer without giving a proper reason
• Threaten to send bailiffs or enforcement agents when they have no legal right to do so
• Continue to chase you for a debt that is subject to a court order or formal arrangement
• Share your personal financial information with people who have no involvement in the debt

If a creditor does any of these things, their behaviour could be grounds for a complaint, a claim for compensation, or even criminal proceedings.

Creditor Harassment and Council Tax Debt

Council tax debt is treated differently from most other debts because local authorities have their own enforcement powers. If you fall behind on council tax, the council can apply to a magistrates’ court for a liability order and then instruct enforcement agents to collect the debt. However, even in council tax cases, there are rules about how you can be treated.

Enforcement agents collecting council tax arrears must follow the Taking Control of Goods Regulations 2013. They must give you proper notice before visiting. They cannot force entry into your home on a first visit. They must not behave in a threatening or aggressive way. If they do, you can complain to the council, the enforcement company, or the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman.

If you are struggling with council tax arrears, contact your council as early as possible. Many councils offer hardship funds, payment plans, or council tax support reductions that could lower your bill. Our guide on council tax support explains the options available to you.

When to Seek Legal Help

Most creditor harassment can be resolved through complaints and free advice services. But in serious cases, you may need legal support. Consider seeking legal help if:

• A creditor continues to harass you after receiving a written complaint
• You are being threatened with violence or intimidation
• A creditor is pursuing you for a debt you do not owe
• You want to apply for a court injunction to stop the contact

Many solicitors offer a free initial consultation for harassment cases. You may also qualify for legal aid depending on your income and circumstances. Citizens Advice can point you towards local legal help.

Need Help With Creditor Harassment or Debt?

If creditors are making your life difficult, you do not have to deal with it alone. Contact Council Tax Advisors for free, confidential guidance on your rights and options. We can help you take control of the situation and find a way forward.

Updated for 2026

Dealing With Debts Other Than Council Tax

Updated for 2026

If you are struggling with council tax, there is a good chance you are also dealing with debts other than council tax at the same time. Energy bills, credit card balances, payday loans and mortgage arrears can all pile up, making it feel impossible to keep on top of your finances. In 2026, with household costs still rising across the UK, millions of people find themselves juggling multiple debts at once. The good news is that free, impartial help is available, and understanding your options is the first step towards regaining control.

Why Debts Other Than Council Tax Are So Common in 2026

The cost of living crisis has left millions of UK households stretched thin. According to the Money and Pensions Service, around 8.3 million people in the UK have problem debt. Council tax arrears rarely exist in isolation. When someone falls behind on council tax, they are often behind on other bills too, including gas, electricity, water, broadband and rent or mortgage payments.

Energy prices remain a particular concern. Despite the energy price cap being adjusted several times since 2022, many households still spend a significant portion of their income on heating and lighting. If you are already behind on council tax, an unexpected energy bill or boiler repair can tip the balance. You can read our guide on how to save money on your utility bills for practical tips on reducing those costs.

Credit card debt is another major issue. UK consumers owe over £70 billion on credit cards, and minimum repayments can trap people in a cycle that takes years to escape. Store cards, buy now pay later schemes and catalogue debts add further pressure on already tight budgets.

Common Debts That Pile Up Alongside Council Tax

The most frequent debts that households carry alongside council tax arrears include:

• Gas and electricity bills
• Water rates
• Credit card balances
• Rent or mortgage arrears
• Personal loans and overdrafts
• Buy now pay later obligations
• Catalogue and store card debts

Carrying several of these at once creates a situation where no single payment feels manageable, and the temptation to borrow your way out grows stronger.

How Payday Loans and Credit Cards Make Things Worse

When bills are mounting, it can be tempting to reach for a quick fix. Payday loans and credit cards might seem like a way to cover a shortfall, but the interest rates can quickly turn a small debt into a much larger one.

Payday loans typically carry annual interest rates of several hundred per cent. While the FCA has capped the cost of payday lending, the charges can still be significant if you cannot repay on time. Rolling over a payday loan or taking out a second one to cover the first is a common pattern that leads to a spiral of debt. We have written more about safer alternatives to payday loans if you are considering borrowing.

Credit cards are not much better if you only make minimum payments. On a typical card with a 20% APR, paying only the minimum means it could take decades to clear even a modest balance. If you are already dealing with debts other than council tax, adding credit card interest on top only makes recovery harder. Our guide to dealing with credit card debt covers this in more detail.

The safer option is always to speak to a free debt adviser before borrowing more. Organisations like StepChange and MoneyHelper offer confidential support at no cost.

Dealing With Debts Other Than Council Tax: Where to Start

The most important thing is to take stock of everything you owe. Write down each debt, the amount outstanding, the interest rate and the minimum monthly payment. This gives you a clear picture of where you stand.

Once you have that list, prioritise your debts. Council tax, rent or mortgage and energy bills are priority debts because the consequences of non-payment are the most serious. These can lead to bailiff action, eviction or disconnection. Non-priority debts like credit cards, personal loans and catalogue debts are still important, but creditors have fewer powers to enforce them quickly.

Steps You Can Take Today

Contact each creditor and explain your situation. Most energy companies are required to offer payment plans if you are struggling. Your council may agree to a repayment arrangement for council tax arrears. Credit card companies can freeze interest or agree to reduced payments if you are in genuine financial difficulty.

You should also check whether you are claiming all the benefits and support you are entitled to. Council tax support, Universal Credit, Pension Credit and the Warm Home Discount can all make a real difference. Use the benefits calculator on GOV.UK to check what you could be receiving.

Setting up a simple budget is essential. List your income against your essential outgoings, and work out exactly how much you can afford to put towards each debt. Even small regular payments show creditors you are trying and may prevent enforcement action. For more budgeting strategies, see our article on managing debt repayments.

How Bailiffs Handle Non-Council Tax Debts

If you have debts other than council tax that are enforced by bailiffs (officially called enforcement agents), it is important to understand your rights. Bailiffs collecting for different types of debt have different powers depending on the type of warrant or order they hold.

For council tax debts, bailiffs need a liability order from the magistrates’ court before they can visit. For other debts like parking fines, magistrates’ court fines or county court judgments, different rules apply. In all cases, bailiffs must give you at least seven days’ written notice before their first visit, and they cannot force entry to your home on their first visit for most debt types.

What Bailiffs Cannot Take

Bailiffs cannot take essential household items like your cooker, fridge, washing machine, bedding or clothing. They also cannot take items that belong to someone else in your household. Tools of your trade up to a value of £1,350 are also protected.

If a bailiff behaves aggressively or breaks the rules, you have the right to complain to the creditor and, if necessary, to the court. You can find out more about bailiff rules and how to challenge them on our site.

Free Help and Support Available

You do not need to face debt alone. Several organisations in the UK provide free, confidential debt advice that covers all types of debt, not just council tax:

• StepChange Debt Charity offers a free online debt advice service and can set up a debt management plan on your behalf
• MoneyHelper, run by the Money and Pensions Service, provides tools and guidance on budgeting, debt and benefits
• Citizens Advice can help you understand your rights and negotiate with creditors
• National Debtline offers free advice by phone and online

Your local council may also have a welfare assistance scheme or hardship fund that can help with emergency costs. It is always worth asking.

If your debts feel overwhelming, formal solutions like a Debt Relief Order (for debts under £30,000 with no assets and low income) or an Individual Voluntary Arrangement may be worth considering. A qualified debt adviser can talk you through the options that apply to your situation. You can also read our guide on free debt advice in the UK for more details on where to turn.

Get Free Advice on Your Debts

If you are struggling with multiple debts and do not know where to turn, we can help. Our team at Council Tax Advisors offers free, impartial advice on council tax arrears and other household debts. Whether you need help setting up a payment plan, understanding your rights with bailiffs, or simply want to talk through your options, contact us today.