8 Tips to Stay on Track After Consolidating Your Debts
8th August 2025
You’ve taken the step to consolidate your debts, and now your monthly payments may be simpler. But the work doesn’t stop here, staying on track is what can really make a difference. Here are clear, useful ways to keep going.
1. Split your money on payday
Once you’re paid, don’t leave all your money sitting in the same account. Split it straight away into separate pots, one for your loan payment, one for bills, one for everyday spending, and one for savings or a buffer.
Many banks let you do this easily using “pots” or “spaces.” It helps you avoid overspending by accident and keeps things clear.
2. Automate everything you can
Set up Direct Debits for bills like rent, utilities, Council Tax and your loan payment, ideally just after payday. This can reduce the chance of missing anything important.
Apps like Emma can help keep an overview of your spending across different accounts.
3. Build in ‘no spend’ days during the week
Choosing a few days a week where you don’t spend on non-essentials can help you build useful habits. It might be skipping a takeaway or leaving the online basket for another day. The aim is to build more awareness of where your money goes.
Apps like Toshl or YNAB (You Need A Budget) can help you track it, or just use a paper calendar and tick off your days.
Still deciding how to manage what you owe? Our guide on Choosing Which Debts to Consolidate: What Matters Most? can help you figure out.
4. Freeze tempting credit offers
After consolidating, it’s not unusual to start seeing credit card offers again. You can lower the risk of giving in by contacting your card provider and asking not to be offered limit increases. You can also reduce your own limits in most apps.
5. Set a non-money goal
Pick a goal that’s not about money like getting fitter, clearing out your garage, or learning something new. It helps shift your focus away from just watching your bank balance and gives you something else to feel proud of.
Try the NHS Couch to 5K app or a free skill platform like FutureLearn or Duolingo.
6. Plan ahead for emergency costs
Having a rough plan for dealing with surprise costs, like an emergency car repair or a missed shift, can help things feel more manageable. Think about:
- Which bills or subscriptions could be paused
- Who to contact first if needed
- Whether there’s anything to sell (you can use Vinted or Facebook Marketplace)
Even setting aside £5–10 a week in an app like Chip and Plum can help build a small buffer over time.
7. Check your credit file every 6 months
Use Experian, ClearScore, or Credit Karma to check for errors and fraud. It’s free, and you can raise a dispute if anything looks off.
If your credit report still shows debts you thought were cleared, contact the original lenders or the new provider managing your consolidation loan.
8. Know where to go for support and guidance
If you’re unsure what to do next or want help managing changes in your finances, there are services available to guide you through your options:
These organisations offer free and impartial help and won’t affect your credit score.
Keep things steady, not perfect
Debt consolidation can simplify repayments, but staying on track is about building steady habits and using the tools available to you.
Oakbrook Loans offers a debt consolidation option where the process, from application through to paying off existing debts, is handled for you. This means your old debts are paid directly, so you're left with just one fixed monthly payment.
For a full breakdown of how it all works, read What Is Debt Consolidation? A Guide to Taking Control of Your Finances in 2025.