This guide helps with
- Understand when a payment pause may be the right option
- Know how a temporary pause typically works
- Learn how to request a pause from Merion
- Understand what happens when the pause ends
- Find free help to plan your way through a tough patch
5 min read
You're not alone
Sometimes life throws something at you — a job loss, illness, a family emergency — and even small payments are not possible for a while. If that is where you are, please know a temporary pause is a real and reasonable option. Hardship support is there for exactly these moments.
Asking for a pause is not giving up. It is a sensible way to get through a hard stretch and come back to payments when you are ready.
What you can do
A pause usually means stopping payments for an agreed period, then picking them up again once things have settled. You can ask for the time you genuinely need.
- Think about how long a pause you realistically need.
- Note what has changed and, if you know it, when things may improve.
- Have your account or reference number ready.
- Ask early, before payments fall behind, so we can plan it together.
Step by step
- Find your account number on your notice.
- Decide roughly how long a pause you need.
- Contact us through the contact form or reply to your letter, and ask for a temporary pause on payments.
- Briefly explain what has changed and when you hope to resume.
- Keep a copy of the agreement and note the date payments are due to restart.
Free support available
A free financial counsellor can help you decide whether a pause or a lower payment suits you best, and can speak with us on your behalf. Call the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007 — free, confidential and independent. If you are finding things overwhelming, Lifeline on 13 11 14 and Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 are there any time.
Good to know
- A temporary pause can give you breathing room during a hard patch.
- Asking for a pause is sensible, not a sign of giving up.
- Ask early and say roughly how long you need.
- Free help to plan a pause is available on 1800 007 007.
FAQ
How long can I pause my payments?
It depends on your situation — tell us what you need and we will work out a fair period together. A financial counsellor on 1800 007 007 can help you decide what is realistic.
What happens when the pause ends?
We will agree in advance when payments restart and at what amount, so there are no surprises. If things are still tough then, just get in touch again.
Is a pause the same as the debt being cleared?
No — a pause is a temporary break, not a write-off. It simply gives you time. We will let you know what remains and how it will be handled afterwards.
Still stuck? Our team is happy to help you sort it out.