If your limited company is struggling with debt or cashflow, you do not need to pay for advice to get started. Several well-regarded organisations offer free guidance specifically for businesses, with no obligation and no referral fee.
Business Debtline
Run by the Money Advice Trust, Business Debtline (businessdebtline.org) offers free, confidential debt advice for self-employed people and small businesses, including limited companies. Advisers can help you understand your options, prioritise debts, and communicate with creditors. Available by phone and online webchat.
British Business Bank — Business Support Helpline
The British Business Bank operates a Business Support Helpline (0800 998 1098) that connects businesses in England to local growth hubs, where advisers can help with cashflow planning, finance options, and signposting to specialist services. Equivalent services exist in Scotland (Business Gateway), Wales (Business Wales), and Northern Ireland (Invest Northern Ireland).
Licensed insolvency practitioners
If you are concerned your company may be insolvent rather than just cashflow-squeezed, a licensed insolvency practitioner (IP) is the right person to speak to. Many IPs offer a free initial consultation. You can find a licensed practitioner through the Insolvency Practitioners Association (insolvency-practitioners.org.uk) or the R3 association (r3.org.uk). Be cautious of unregulated debt-management firms that charge upfront fees — a licensed IP is regulated and must put your interests, and your creditors' interests, first.
HMRC Business Payment Support Service
If part of the problem is an upcoming tax bill, HMRC's Business Payment Support Service (0300 200 3835) can discuss Time to Pay arrangements before the deadline passes. It is free to use and calling early significantly improves the outcome.
We lend only to UK limited companies and LLPs, and the loan is to the company with no director personal guarantee. As business finance outside the consumer-credit regime, it is not covered by the Financial Ombudsman Service or FSCS.
See also: The difference between insolvency and a cashflow gap, How to talk to creditors when your business is struggling.