Citizens Advice: what it offers and who it helps
An independent guide to Citizens Advice: what it does, what it costs, where it helps and who it suits best.
Applies to: England and Wales
At a glance
| What it is | Debt charity |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Where it helps | England and Wales |
| Charity number | 279057 (National Association of Citizens Advice Bureaux) |
| Company number | 01436945 |
| Website | www.citizensadvice.org.uk |
What Citizens Advice does
Citizens Advice is a network of independent charities giving free, confidential advice across England and Wales (and the Channel Islands). Debt and money is one of its main advice areas, alongside benefits, housing, work and consumer problems.
What it can help with
- Free advice online, by phone and in person at local Citizens Advice
- Online chat about debt
- Guidance on dealing with debts and prioritising urgent debts (rent, Council Tax, energy, mortgage arrears)
- Information on debt solutions: DROs, IVAs, debt management plans, bankruptcy and administration orders
- Template letters to creditors
Who it suits
People in England or Wales whose debts sit alongside other problems — benefits, housing, work or consumer issues — and who may want face-to-face help locally.
How to get help
Go to the Citizens Advice website for current opening hours and ways to get in touch. Have a list of your debts, your income and your regular bills to hand — it makes the first conversation much quicker. Our budget calculator and debt finder can help you get these together.
Independent page. My Debt Cleared is not connected with Citizens Advice and does not speak for it. Details were checked against its own website and official registers on 21 October 2026; services change, so check its site for the latest.
Other free help
You never have to pay for debt advice. MoneyHelper (government-backed), StepChange, National Debtline and Citizens Advice all give free, confidential advice with no obligation.
Common questions
Is Citizens Advice free?
Free
Who is Citizens Advice for?
People in England or Wales whose debts sit alongside other problems — benefits, housing, work or consumer issues — and who may want face-to-face help locally.
Where does Citizens Advice help?
England and Wales