Non-priority debt
A non-priority debt is a debt where the consequences of non-payment are less immediate, such as credit cards, personal loans, overdrafts and catalogue debts.
Also known as: non-priority debts
Non-priority debts are usually unsecured debts. Creditors can still chase you, add a default to your credit file and in some cases take you to court, but they cannot take your home or cut off essential services without a court order. Typical examples are credit cards, store cards, personal loans, overdrafts, payday loans and catalogue accounts.
If you are struggling, a debt adviser will normally help you cover living costs and priority debts first, then offer a fair share of what is left to non-priority creditors. Ignoring them completely is not wise, because they may take court action.
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7 min readReadThis page provides general information only. It is not personalised financial, legal or tax advice, and rules and figures can change. Your situation is unique — please check official sources such as GOV.UK and MoneyHelper, and speak to a qualified, FCA-authorised adviser before making important decisions about your money.