As postal strikes blight the country, thousands of consumers awaiting their store card and credit card statements could face debt management issues – as the bills are still sitting in sorting offices.
Most major credit card companies levy charges for late payment (of around £12 per month), meaning that the average person with two cards could face an extra £24 being charged to their credit card debt each month.
This adds further strain to already overstretched household finances, and could result in many more households experiencing debt problems as they struggle to cope with their debt management burden.
The Royal Mail strikes are set to carry on through October, and could also affect consumers that receive discounts from energy suppliers’ for prompt payments. British Gas, for example, gives discounts of up to £3.75 for eligible customers who settle their balances in full within 14 days.
Clare Francis, editor of moneysupermarket.com, said: “Not everyone is going to be caught out by the postal strike, but even accounting for dormant cards and cardholders who pay their bills by direct debit, the mail backlog could generate millions of pounds in charges for card providers.
“It could be worth agreeing to pay at least the minimum repayment by direct debit to make sure you’re not affected.”
Debt advice organisations have recommended seeking impartial help if you are struggling with debts.
Ivan Cooper, Chairman at debt management company Chiltern, said: “When faced with growing debts and shrinking incomes, people would benefit from seeking some impartial help from a specialist to get out of debt.
“Usually a more positive outcome can be achieved if debt problems are confronted sooner rather than later.”
