Most people will need to borrow money at some stage to tide them over in an emergency, to buy larger items or to fund a special event. Before you borrow money, it's important to make sure you will be able to keep up the repayments, otherwise you could be taken to court and might even lose your home or other valuable possessions.

Find out about the different ways to borrow money, how to borrow sensibly and how to avoid some of the pitfalls of borrowing which can lead to problems with debt.

Information on credit including how lenders decide whether to give you credit, credit scoring, and what you can do if you are refused credit. 

Explains what credit reference agencies are, and how your credit rating is judged when you apply for credit. Also covers what to do if you are refused credit, or if credit reference agencies have incorrect information about you on their files.

How do lenders decide if they will offer you credit? Information about credit reference agencies and credit scoring.

Information about plastic cards including credit cards, store cards and charge cards.

Information on how your credit rating is affected if a county court judgment has been made against you and how to get your debt record cleared.

Information on how you are protected by The Consumer Credit Act. The Consumer Credit Act regulates credit card purchases but also gives you protection when you enter into a loan or hire agreement. It also gives you the right to a cooling off period.

If you want to borrow money and pay back an amount every month, a personal loan is one option. Here’s what you need to think about before you borrow and how to make sure you get the best deal for you.

Credit unions are co-operatives that accept deposits and give out loans. They are set up by people with a common interest, such as where they live or work, and offer low-interest loans, and sometimes bank accounts and savings accounts. They've been around since the 1940s but in recent years have become increasingly popular among savers and borrowers.

Loan sharks are illegal moneylenders who often charge very high interest rates - check if a company is licensed and how to report one that isn’t.

Explains the rules about consumer credit complaints, who can complain and how to go about it.

Information about types of equity release scheme‚ such as lifetime mortgages, including what to consider before deciding on a particular scheme, and regulations and safeguards.

If you’re having trouble repaying a payday loan or are unhappy with the way you’re being treated by your lender, knowing who to speak to is essential. These guides can help you complain and contact the Financial Ombudsman Service.