Abacus Daily Debt News

Debt advice for those affected by floods

Those who have been adversely affected by the recent flooding across the country have been offered a lifeline by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), which has pledged to concentrate on aiding recovery from these events.

A special helpline has been launched where, between the hours of 08:00 and 20:00 GMT Monday to Friday and 08:00 and 16:00 GMT over the weekend, people can find "fast, practical help and advice".

This may be of particular use to those struggling with debt management issues as HMRC states it can help by revising payment schedules for those with financial difficulties exacerbated by the floods.

"A quick call to the HMRC helpline will give peace of mind, enabling customers to focus on restoring their homes and businesses," financial secretary to the Treasury Stephen Timms PM remarked.

This move by the HMRC follows a recent scheme from the Federation of Small Businesses, which involves offering interest-free loans of up to £5,000 to assist companies in continuing to trade, as well as repairing any damage sustained.

By Sarah Adie