Paying a debt

How to Set Up a Payment Plan

If paying in full at once is difficult, a payment plan lets you clear the account in agreed instalments. This guide explains how to propose and set one up.

What you'll do

  • Work out an instalment amount you can realistically afford
  • Gather your reference number and contact details
  • Propose the plan to Merion
  • Confirm the arrangement in writing and keep to it

5 min read

Work out what you can afford

Before you propose a plan, look honestly at your budget and decide what you can pay each week, fortnight or month after your essential costs. A realistic instalment you can sustain is far better than an ambitious one you cannot keep up.

If money is very tight, our guide on how to pay if you can't afford the full amount sets out the support available.

Step by step

  1. Have your reference number ready and decide on the instalment amount and frequency you can manage.
  2. Contact Merion through the Help Centre to propose your plan.
  3. Explain the amount you can pay and how often. We will discuss what can be accommodated for your account.
  4. Agree the schedule, including the first payment date and the final payment date.
  5. Ask for the arrangement to be confirmed in writing so you both have a record.
  6. Set reminders, or set up automatic payments, so each instalment is made on time.

Keeping your plan on track

Once a plan is agreed, the most important thing is to keep to it. If your circumstances change and you think you may miss a payment, contact us early — adjustments are usually possible when we know in advance.

You can make each instalment on the Pay your balance page using your reference number.

Good to know

  • Propose an instalment you can realistically sustain.
  • Always ask for the arrangement to be confirmed in writing.
  • Pay each instalment on time, or contact us early if you can't.
  • Free financial counselling can help you set a workable budget.

FAQ

How small can my instalments be?

There is no fixed minimum. Propose what you can sustain, and we will discuss what can be accommodated for your account.

What if I miss a payment?

Contact us as soon as you can. When we know in advance, an adjustment to the plan is usually possible.

Will a plan stop further contact?

While you keep to an agreed plan, contact is generally limited to payment reminders and confirmations.

Still not sure? Our team is happy to talk it through.