Helplines Awareness Day: 5 of the best free phone helplines offering debt and bill support in 2026

• February 23 marks World Helplines Day, recognising vital phone support services
• Several UK organisations offer free, confidential advice for money worries
• Help is available for debt, bills, benefits and budgeting problems
• Advisers can explain your rights and outline practical solutions
• Specialist support is also available for self-employed and small business owners

Every year on February 23, World Helplines Day shines a light on the vital role played by the people at the end of the phone when life feels overwhelming.

But while many helplines are associated with emotional support, there are also specialist services offering free, confidential advice to anyone struggling with money.

Whether you’re worried about debt, behind on bills or unsure what benefits you’re entitled to, picking up the phone can be the first step towards regaining control.

Helpline advisers are trained to listen without judgment. Calls are confidential, and you won’t be pressured into any particular solution.

In many cases, simply understanding your rights and the options available can ease some of the stress. Here are some of the key UK helplines offering money and debt support.

Citizens Advice - 0800 144 8848

One of the best-known sources of free advice in the UK, Citizens Advice helps millions of people each year with everything from debt and housing to benefits and energy bills.

Its advisers can talk you through your options, help you understand your rights and, in some cases, negotiate with creditors.

You can contact the national Adviceline by phone or speak to a local branch. Support is free and confidential.

Citizens Advice can be particularly useful if your money problems are tied up with other issues, such as problems with a landlord or disputes with your employer.

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National Debtline - 0808 808 4000

Run by the Money Advice Trust, National Debtline offers free, independent debt advice over the phone and online.

Advisers can help you create a realistic budget, prioritise debts and explain the pros and cons of different solutions, such as debt management plans or bankruptcy. They can also provide template letters to send to creditors.

The helpline is free to call from landlines and mobiles, making it an accessible first port of call if you’re feeling buried under bills.

StepChange - 0800 138 1111

StepChange is another major debt charity offering free, impartial advice. Its phone advisers can help you assess your situation and recommend tailored solutions based on your circumstances.

For some people, that might mean setting up a debt management plan. For others, it could involve exploring breathing space schemes or formal insolvency options.

The charity also has an online debt advice tool, but speaking to someone directly can feel more reassuring if you’re anxious about your finances.

MoneyHelper - 0800 138 7777

Backed by the Money and Pensions Service, MoneyHelper provides free guidance on a wide range of money topics, including budgeting, pensions and benefits.

If you’re unsure where to start, its helpline can point you towards the right support and explain your options in plain English. While it won’t recommend specific financial products, it can help you understand the basics and avoid common pitfalls.

Business Debtline - 0800 197 6026

If you’re self-employed or run a small business, Business Debtline offers specialist advice tailored to traders, sole directors and small partnerships.

Money worries can feel especially isolating when your personal and business finances are intertwined.

This helpline focuses on issues such as tax debts, supplier arrears and cash flow problems.