This guide helps with
- Understand when asking for more time is the right move
- Know how a short extension typically works
- Learn how to request more time from Merion
- Understand what helps us say yes
- Find free help if more time alone won't be enough
4 min read
You're not alone
Not every money problem is a big one. Sometimes you simply need a little more time — your pay lands next week, a tax refund is on the way, or a quiet patch is about to lift. If that is you, asking for a short extension is easy and completely reasonable.
You will not be judged for needing breathing room. A quick, honest heads-up is always better than going quiet, and it usually makes things simple to sort out.
What you can do
The clearer you can be about when you will be able to pay, the easier it is to agree on more time.
- Work out a realistic date by which you can pay or start paying.
- Decide whether you need to move one payment or shift the whole timeline.
- Have your account or reference number ready.
- Reach out before the due date rather than after it.
Step by step
- Find your account number on your notice.
- Decide on a realistic date you can pay by.
- Contact us through the contact form or reply to your letter, and ask for a bit more time.
- Tell us the date you expect to be able to pay.
- Keep a copy of what we agree and set yourself a reminder.
Free support available
If, once you look closely, more time alone will not be enough, free help is available to find a better fit. A financial counsellor can review your situation and explore a plan or a pause with you. Call the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007 — free, confidential and independent. More guidance is in our Help Centre.
Good to know
- A short extension is easy to ask for when money is on its way.
- Be clear about a realistic date you can pay by.
- Reach out before the due date, not after.
- If more time isn't enough, free help is on 1800 007 007.
FAQ
How much extra time can I get?
Tell us when you realistically expect to be able to pay, and we will work out a fair extension together. The clearer the date, the easier it is.
What if my money doesn't come through when I expected?
Just let us know as soon as you can. We would much rather you stay in touch than worry — we can adjust the timing again if needed.
Is asking for more time the same as a payment plan?
Not quite — more time is a short extension, while a plan spreads payments out over a longer period. If you think a plan would suit you better, ask us about that instead.
Still stuck? Our team is happy to help you sort it out.