Debt to Government Rates Agency

GrantR

Hi everyone.

A few years ago I had a breakdown and as a result buried my head with some bills we had coming into the house. They were just letters so I just tucked them away. Fast forward 4/5 years and I e created a debt of 20k and reality of it is putting huge strain on my marriage.

Realising part of the debt I put some of it onto a 0% credit card, but that period has now ended so my monthly payment isn't making the dint it used to.

I know going forward we'd be ok financially iF it wasn't for this huge burden over us. My wife and I both work full time, I'm self employed. I've spoke to the Rates Agency and they say it has to be paid, even the older bills from 5-6 years ago. I'm really at a loss as to what I can do...any advice ?

Grumpelstiltskin

OP Who are the 'Rates Agency' ?

fatbelly

You need to start speaking to agencies that can help:

Stepchange
National Debtline
Citizens Advice.

For us you could start by providing a statement of affairs

https://www.lemonfool.co.uk/financecalculators/soa.php

sourcrates

I think the OP is in Northern Ireland, and assume the bills are for unpaid rates, or council tax as we know it.

I would echo what the big man says above, there are debt solutions available to you, I`m amazed a debt of 20k has been allowed to accrue without any enforcement action?

GrantR

Thanks for your comments. The Rates Agency in NI would be your council tax scenario. It covers street lighting, council spending, the arts etc.

The main reason that the amount became so high was really because all they seem to do is send out letters and reminders. They have taken the debt to court but again this is just a letter, so it's easy to put it in the drawer or the bin when you're in that frame of mind. But now when I put it together it's just this huge sum that I really don't see how I can pay especially with the current cost of living crisis.

RAS

CAB suggest Get advice in Northern Ireland - Citizens Advice for advice.

I'd also suggest putting up a Statement of Affairs as fatbelly suggests.