Wanting to take some action

dippyjones

I really want to start getting my finances on the right track but don't know where to start. I look at the budgeting sheets and some of the things we don't budget for and just 'wing' it and some things we pay more for a month. What do we do there?

Firstly though, need help with provident lady as she is hassling me... Not always been the friendliest of agents but I just cannot afford to pay her anymore. What do I do?

vasseur

I would start by filling out a Statement of Affairs. That way you've got everything written down and can really see where you are. It might be scary looking at the figures at first but it's so much better to be informed about what your situation looks like. It also acts as a great demotivational tool for when you are tempted to spend money on things you don't need.

Start keeping a spending diary too so you can see where all the extra spends are going.

Not sure what advice to give about the Provident lady - hopefully someone will be along in a while who can help.

9780ninjalt

Have you tried the CCCS Debt Remedy tool? I used it when I had my lightbulb moment and was trying to get my husbands to come on!!! You fill it in online, you don't have to give your name and it covers EVERYTHING. Things I hadn't considered like putting money away every month for the cars MOT or pocket money for the kids etc. At the end it gives you free advice on what they recommend you do whether that be a DMP, IVA or other options and you can decide what to do from there. You may decide to not use the CCCS but it's a good starting point, I think.

With Provident I would advise them that you are seeking advice from a Debt Management Company on your financial situation and will continue making the reduced payments for the time being.

Good Luck x

redpete

dippyjones wrote: »

some of the things we don't budget for and just 'wing' it and some things we pay more for a month. What do we do there?

Make your best guess about how much you spend on these thimgs over a year and divide by 12 for the monthly amount.

Firstly though, need help with provident lady as she is hassling me... Not always been the friendliest of agents but I just cannot afford to pay her anymore. What do I do?

Remove any emotion form the situation - it's only another debt.

When people see what your financial position is (from the SOA) they will be able to advise whether a Debt Management Plan is appropriate, if so you can go to one of the free services that help with these.

dippyjones

Thank you, I have already looked at CCCS and they look good, will have to do it properly when baby is asleep.

I text provident lady and said I can't afford to pay and seeking debt help, surprisingly haven't heard from her today... X