StepChange Debt Charity
There are always solutions, no matter what your situation.
Write off 75%* of unaffordable debt
One lower monthly payment
Stop creditor hassle and bailiffs
Access mental well-being services
Who are StepChange?
StepChange is the UK’s largest debt charity. They provide free, impartial advice to people struggling with money worries. Funded through charitable donations and industry support, StepChange helps thousands of households each year with practical debt solutions.
They are best known for offering Debt Management Plans (DMPs), but also provide guidance on Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVAs), Debt Relief Orders (DROs), bankruptcy, and budgeting support.
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What Happens If You Miss StepChange Payments?
If you miss one or two payments, StepChange will usually add a late fee and may report it to credit reference agencies, which can impact your credit score. Ongoing missed payments will incur more interest and charges, and your account may going into default. If your account is defaulted, it may be transferred or sold to a debt collection agency. You would then deal with the new company, but the debt terms and balance may still apply, depending on the agreement. PennyPlan can help you understand your position and what you can do to reduce escalation.
We Help With Most Debts - Not Just StepChange!
* Mortgage debt can be included if you no longer own the property in question.
Prefer to talk? Call 0161 808 8811
Open til 7pm Monday to Friday
How to contact StepChange?
StepChange telephone number:
0800 138 1111
Website:
StepChange postal address:
StepChange Debt Charity
123 Albion Street
Leeds
LS2 8ER
Stop all interest & charges
Write off debt
Access well-being services
Reduce monthly payments
How Could A StepChange Debt Repayment Plan Work
An IVA consolidates your debts into one affordable payment plan, with some StepChange debt potentially written off. A DMP combines debts into one monthly payment, with interest reduced or frozen to help ease financial pressure. A DRO is a debt reduction programme for those on low income, where certain debts can be cleared with no ongoing payments required during the DRO.
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How does StepChange work?
StepChange starts by assessing your financial situation through their online tool or over the phone. They’ll look at your income, outgoings, and debts to recommend the most suitable debt solution.
Once a plan is agreed, they can help set it up and manage communication with your creditors. For example, with a StepChange DMP, you make one monthly payment to them, and they distribute it fairly across your debts.
StepChange services are free, but some of the debt solutions they recommend (like IVAs) may have fees built in, which are clearly explained.
Get Help With StepChange Debt Today
Trying to manage your StepChange credit card debt alone can be a massive burden that controls your life. But it doesn’t have to. Our advisers are here with you every step of the way, providing tailored advice and debt solutions to start taking the weight off your shoulders. To take the first step – speak to a member of our team today.
Apply for our eligibility check
Speak to our debt specialists
Choose your debt solution
We’ll handle the rest
StepChange FAQ's
Does StepChange affect your credit score or rating?
Using StepChange won’t automatically affect your credit score. What matters is the type of debt solution you enter into.
For instance:
- A DMP may be visible if creditors mark partial or reduced payments.
- IVAs and DROs are recorded on your credit file for six years.
- Bankruptcy has the strongest long-term impact.
The credit rating impact comes from the solution, not StepChange as an organisation.
What is StepChange?
StepChange is a registered UK charity dedicated to supporting people with problem debt. Their aim is to provide free, confidential advice and practical solutions to help people take control of their finances.
They are not a lender, and they don’t charge for advice. Their role is to guide people through the different options available for dealing with debt.
Does StepChange charge a fee?
No, StepChange does not charge a fee for their advice or support. As a debt charity, their services are free to use.
However, some debt solutions, such as IVAs, involve fees to set up and run. With StepChange, these are usually taken from your monthly payment rather than being charged separately. They will always explain any costs before you commit.