I’ve Stopped Opening Letters Because of My Debts
When debt feels overwhelming, avoiding letters can provide a short period of relief.
When debt feels overwhelming, avoiding letters can provide a short period of relief.
Unfortunately, the unopened envelopes can then become another source of anxiety, and important deadlines may be missed.
Do not try to solve everything at once
Your first job is simply to find out what the letters say.
Gather them together and open the most recent correspondence first. You do not have to make every phone call or payment on the same day.
Sort the letters into groups
Create simple piles or folders: rent or mortgage, Council Tax, energy, credit cards, loans, court or official papers and anything you do not understand.
Write the latest balance or requested action on the front if that helps.
Look for urgent words and dates
Pay particular attention to court documents, possession proceedings, enforcement notices, deadlines, disconnection information or letters saying action will happen on a particular date.
If you find formal paperwork you do not understand, get advice promptly.
Ask somebody to help you open them
A trusted friend or family member can sit with you while you sort the post. They do not need to take control of your finances.
You can also take the letters to a free debt adviser. Advisers are used to people arriving with bags or piles of paperwork.
Make the next step small
Once the letters are sorted, choose the most urgent issue and deal with that first.
Opening the post will not create the debt. It gives you information that can help you protect your position and make a plan.
7.40: What Are Priority and Non-Priority Debts?
22.5: I’ve Stopped Opening Letters and Emails
22.8: I Don’t Understand the Letters I’ve Received
Important information
This guide provides general information and is not intended to provide financial, benefits, debt, housing or legal advice. Individual circumstances can be different. Check current information from official sources and seek advice from an appropriately qualified or authorised adviser before making important financial decisions.