For general advice on all sorts of issues relating to managing your money, a useful way to start is the Money Advice Service.

Looking for some online help to manage your money?

Sometimes you may just want a few ideas on how to keep on top of all your bills and the money that you have to live on. You can start by using the free and independent My Money Steps service to answer a series of simple questions about your finances. In that way you will get some practical steps to help you manage your money and stay in control in of your future. Use the My Money Steps Service.

Being in credit 
If you're going to use credit these tips will help you to borrow safely:

• Can you afford it? Before you commit yourself make sure you can really afford the repayments.
• Read the forms before you sign. If you don't understand them get help from a trading standards office or Citizens' Advice Bureau.
• Check exactly how much you'll pay back including interest and charges.
• Compare the APRs. If you're looking at credit cards, for instance, go for the one with the lowest APR. Low APRs may only be offered for a short period.
• Watch out for optional extras. Sometimes payment protection insurance is included when you haven't asked for it. You don't have to take this up and it may not cover you if you're self-employed or on a short term contract.
• Look at the length of the loan not just the monthly payment.
• If you act as a guarantor for someone else's loan you will have to repay the debt if they don't.

Getting in to debt

There are a few things you can do if you're having money trouble:

• Having difficulty managing your debt? Speak to your bank. 
• For independent advice, visit the Citizens Advice Bureau
• To speak to someone, call the National Debtline on 0808 808 4000.

Need proof of age? We suggest the CitizenCard.