Debt Talk on BBC Sussex

I am up for helping my community by shortening my lunch break to give them a few tips on how to manage their bills. As a Debt Talk podcaster on BBC Sussex, I provided quick, sound advice on water bills, council tax, and credit reports to my community.

Credit rating:

First, you need to register to vote. Registering to vote means you are a legitimate person in the public record.

Second, open a bank account—a standard bank account - where you put regular income and take it out when you want to. This also helps creditors to get familiar with your whereabouts and you will be on their credit file.

Third, without you realising it, you may find that you are already on the credit file just by paying for your water, gas, and telephone bills. Once you are on it and paying direct debit regularly, you are getting closer to gaining exposure to credit reference agencies. You just then need to show that you are credit-worthy to pay back the loan or credit card you are thinking of borrowing. Simple!

Council Tax Support:

If you are a single person living on the property, you are entitled to a single person's discount. Regardless of the size of your home, this is on top of the Council Tax Reduction (if you are on low income). I know I received my council tax bill from Brighton Council, which was eye-watering. This is also very much the case for many. You can also get Discretionary Payments for council tax support when you have a shortfall. You need to be on UC, HB, or Council Tax Reduction.

Water bills:

If you are on a low income, you can pay 50% off your water bills due to the fact that living in London and surrounding arears is very expensive. If your usage is high due to your medical condition, there can be a cap for your usage. Get in touch with your supplier. They should be able to help.

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