Tackling money worries

This section provides an introduction to some of the key issues involving money, welfare benefits and personal finance that you might encounter.

Money worries can be a real headache and often get worse if you don’t take action, so it’s important to tackle them as soon as possible. The information in this section isn’t exhaustive, and if you are going to make a claim for welfare benefits, or are thinking of applying for a mortgage, you should seek specialist advice. Regulations governing access to benefits can change very quickly, so, even if you’ve made a successful application in the past, it’s wise to get advice from an accredited benefits adviser.

Similarly, some financial advisers have developed a detailed understanding of the financial issues faced by HIV-positive people. A good place to start if you want information on benefits or money advice is the Citizens Advice Bureau. They have branches around the country and all their advice is free.

Organisations that provide benefits advice and information are often able to help you to work out how to manage any debts which you may have.

An advisor will look at your financial commitments and income with you. They’ll prioritise your financial commitments and debts, giving the highest priority to your rent or mortgage, utility bills, Council Tax, and any fines you may have. If you have any money left over, then a repayment scheme for credit cards, loans and other debts can be worked out. If you are very badly in debt, they will be able to advise you on bankruptcy or administration.

Even if you feel able to manage your own financial affairs, don’t ignore letters from banks or credit-card companies. Debts won’t go away unless you do something about them, and will become more of a headache the longer you leave them.