Handling your finances after loss

This story shows typical customer situations and how banks can help. You’re not alone – we’re here to help you.

David had been ill for a long time, but that didn't make it any easier for Clare to cope when he passed away.

Coming to terms with the loss and being on her own naturally made life tougher. In turn, it became harder to keep track of bills and payments.

To avoid her worries, Clare stopped opening bank statements and letters altogether. She was behind on her Council Tax payments and loan repayments. Feeling troubled, Clare didn’t know what to do or where to go for help.

Clare’s next steps

• Eventually, Clare called her bank where she explained. Situations like Clare’s are always treated with as much sensitivity as possible, so Clare didn’t need to feel ashamed about what she was going through
• After going through Clare’s budget, they created a realistic repayment plan for her loan, so Clare knew what she had to pay each month
• Before she agreed to the repayment plan, Clare would’ve been notified that it would be reported to the Credit Reference Agencies, and that it could affect her ability to get credit in the future. However, entering into the repayment plan would be better for Clare than continuing to miss payments 
  

Does your situation sound like Clare’s?

Are you concerned you may not be able to pay your bills after losing someone in your family or household? Help’s always at hand.

As soon as you feel like you might go through some financial difficulties, give your bank a call – it could help make things better.

To prepare for the call, have some information about your financial situation ready, including your incomes and outgoings. You might be talking for a while, as your bank will want to understand your situation in detail, so make sure you set aside some time.

If you’re a Barclays customer, here are some numbers you can reach us from.

• Mortgages – 0800 022 4022. Lines are open Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5.30pm and Saturday 9am to 1pm
• Barclaycard – 0800 046 8324. Lines are open every day from 9am to 9pm
• Overdraft and Barclayloan – 0345 600 4545. Lines are open Monday to Sunday, 8am to 9pm
• Premier – 08009 247 365. Lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• Self-employed or have a business? Get some support.

Call charges

Free help and advice

If you’ve got more financial commitments than you can manage or have debt with other creditors, contact National Debtline or StepChange for free advice on the phone or online.

If you need to see somebody in person, contact Citizens Advice.

How close are you to a debt problem?

If you’re concerned about your finances, try StepChange Debt Charity’s 60-second debt test – a few simple questions will tell you if you need advice and where to get it.

These services can provide further help and support

• Cruse – for support with bereavement
• Money Advice Service – for free impartial information and tools on how to deal with your money