Priority bills: what to pay first when there is not enough money
How to prioritise bills by legal and household consequence when income cannot cover everything—and what to say to the creditors who must wait.
Last reviewed: 6 July 2026 · UK guidance
In brief
Priority does not mean the largest balance or highest interest. It means the debt can lead to losing a home, essential supply, liberty, necessary vehicle or important possessions, or to serious enforcement.
Exact priorities depend on circumstances and nation. Free debt advice should check court papers, secured debts and liability. Keep money for food, medication and basic living while urgent arrangements are made.
Identify consequence and deadline
List rent or mortgage, Council Tax or rates, energy, court fines, child maintenance, secured finance and essential tax or business liabilities as relevant. Write the next action date, not only the balance.
Do not let aggressive contact set the order
Credit cards and loans may call frequently, but ordinary unsecured debt often ranks behind housing and essential services. Send a holding message and seek advice before dividing money.
Protect current bills as well as arrears
Paying old debt while missing this month’s rent or energy can deepen the crisis. Separate ongoing liability and arrears and ask for plans that cover both.
Get specialist advice for legal action
Possession, bailiff, bankruptcy, court or disconnection papers need prompt expert help. Do not rely on a general priority list where a deadline or secured asset is involved.
A non-priority creditor holding message
Use while the priority budget is assessed.
I am in financial difficulty and must protect housing, Council Tax, energy and essential living costs. I am obtaining free debt advice and cannot agree a payment until the priority budget is complete. Please pause avoidable action, freeze charges where possible and communicate in writing.
A practical checklist
- Rank by consequence and date.
- Protect current essential bills.
- Hold non-priority creditors.
- Use specialist advice for legal action.
Check the current information
These are the most relevant official or specialist places to confirm live rules, availability and application details.
moneyhelper.org.uk
Open official informationmoneyhelper.org.uk
Open official informationgov.uk
Open official informationmoneyhelper.org.uk
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