Tell them straight away if something is urgent, like a court date or a disconnection notice: you may get an emergency appointment. Bring every bill and letter, even ones you haven't opened.
Quick facts
- Cost
- Free
- Confidential
- Yes, nothing shared without your signed agreement
- Helpline
- 0818 07 2000, 9am to 8pm weekdays
- Urgent cases
- Emergency appointments possible
- Also
- Debt Relief Notices and Abhaile
What a MABS adviser does
- Checks you are getting all the payments or benefits you are entitled to
- Goes through all your debts, and which to pay first
- Works out what you need for everyday living
- Draws up a financial statement for your creditors
- Negotiates a manageable payment plan with your creditors for you
- Refers you on, including for a personal insolvency option
You make the decisions; MABS won't tell you what to do.
Banks and write-offs
MABS has an agreement with the banks' federation, BPFI, so member lenders work with MABS on a manageable plan. "The protocol allows the lender to write off some debt at its discretion." It doesn't apply to mortgage debt.
Mortgages and insolvency
MABS runs the dedicated mortgage arrears advisers under Abhaile, and most MABS offices are Approved Intermediaries for Debt Relief Notices, so they can check whether you qualify and take you through it.
How to contact MABS
"Call the MABS Helpline on 0818 07 2000 (9am-8pm, Monday-Friday) or email helpline@mabs.ie ." You can also request a call back or book at your local office. Free online tools include My Budget and My Full Financial Picture.
Common questions
Is MABS free?
Yes. MABS is a free, confidential service.
What is the MABS phone number?
0818 07 2000, Monday to Friday 9am to 8pm, or email helpline@mabs.ie.
Can MABS stop my electricity being disconnected?
Tell MABS straight away if disconnection is threatened: you may get an emergency appointment, and an adviser can negotiate with the supplier.
Can MABS get my debt written off?
Under its agreement with BPFI lenders, a lender can write off some debt at its discretion. MABS can also check if you qualify for a Debt Relief Notice.