This guide helps with
- Understand that being unable to pay right now is common and workable
- Know the first, low-pressure steps you can take today
- Learn how to ask for smaller payments or more time
- Find free, independent financial counselling near you
- Know who to contact at Merion and what to expect
5 min read
You're not alone
If money is tight and the amount on your notice feels out of reach, please take a breath — this is one of the most common situations we see, and it is one we can work with. Wanting to pay but not being able to manage the full amount right now is not a failure. Life changes: hours get cut, bills land all at once, someone gets sick.
You will not be judged for reaching out, and nothing bad happens simply because you have asked for help. The worst thing you can do is go silent and worry alone — the best thing you can do is start a conversation.
What you can do
You do not need to find the whole amount today. Often the answer is a smaller payment over a longer period, a short pause, or a fresh arrangement that fits your real budget. Any of these is a normal, reasonable request.
- Tell us you are having trouble paying — even a short message is enough to begin.
- Ask about a payment plan you can genuinely afford, even if the amount feels small.
- Ask for more time if you are expecting money soon.
- Mention anything that has changed, like lost work or illness, so we understand.
Step by step
- Find your account or reference number on the letter we sent you.
- Jot down roughly what you could afford each week or fortnight without going without essentials.
- Contact us in writing through the contact form, or reply to your letter, and say you cannot pay the full amount right now.
- Propose what you can manage, or ask us to suggest options.
- Keep a copy of what you send and note the date.
Free support available
You can also get free, independent help before you decide anything. A financial counsellor can look at your whole situation, explain your options in plain language, and even talk to us on your behalf — at no cost. Call the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007 (free, confidential, Australia-wide). If money worries are weighing heavily, Lifeline on 13 11 14 and Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 are there any time.
Good to know
- Not being able to pay in full right now is common and can be worked through.
- Reaching out early is the single most helpful thing you can do.
- Smaller payments, more time, or a pause are all reasonable to ask for.
- Free financial counselling is available on the National Debt Helpline, 1800 007 007.
FAQ
What happens if I just can't pay anything at all right now?
That is okay — tell us, and we can look at pausing payments for a period while things settle. A financial counsellor on 1800 007 007 can help you work out what is realistic and speak with us for you.
Will I get in trouble for saying I can't afford it?
No. Letting us know early is exactly the right thing to do, and it is treated respectfully and in confidence. Silence makes things harder; an honest message makes them easier.
Is asking for help really free?
Yes. Financial counselling through the National Debt Helpline is genuinely free and independent. You should never pay for that service.
Still stuck? Our team is happy to help you sort it out.