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The primary difference between the N244 and N245 court form in debt

If you have a County Court Judgment (CCJ) and need to change your payment terms, or if you want to challenge a court order, you may need to use either Form N244 or Form N245. This article explains the difference between the two forms, when to use each one, and how much they cost.

Differences between priority and non-priority debts

If you are dealing with debt, it helps to understand which debts are most urgent. Priority debts can lead to losing your home, essential services, or even prison if left unpaid. We can help you work out what to pay first.

Complain against an enforcement agent

If an enforcement agent (bailiff) has treated you unfairly, you have the right to complain. Start by complaining to the enforcement firm, and if that does not resolve things, you can escalate to the Enforcement Conduct Board. We can help you through the process.

Enforcement Agent v Debt Collection company

A bailiff (enforcement agent) acts for the courts and can seize your belongings to settle a debt. A debt collector works for a creditor and can only ask you to pay. Knowing the difference matters because they have very different legal powers.

Your Debt Options

If you owe money and are not sure what to do, there are several options depending on how much you owe, what assets you have, and your personal circumstances. Contact Youth Legal for free advice on the best route for you.

Six Stages of debt advice

When you come to us for help with debt, we follow six clear steps to understand your situation and find the best way forward. This page explains what happens at each stage so you know what to expect.

Benefit shortfall

A benefit shortfall happens when your benefits do not cover your essential living costs, especially housing. This can happen for many reasons, from the benefit cap to sanctions to your rent being higher than what benefits will cover. If your money is not stretching far enough, we can help you check whether you are getting everything you are entitled to.

Breathing Space from debt

The Breathing Space scheme gives you temporary legal protection from creditors while you get professional debt advice. It freezes interest and charges and pauses enforcement action. Contact Youth Legal to find out if you are eligible.

Lender owes you money

If a lender owes you money, you have the right to get it back. Start by raising the issue directly with the firm. If that does not work, you can escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) or consider legal action.

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