Debt counselling (Schuldnerberatung) helps you get a clear picture of your situation and find solutions. Non-profit services work independently of creditors.
Key points
- Debt counselling (Schuldnerberatung) can help you draw up a household budget and communicate with creditors.
- The service can issue certificates for higher protected amounts on your P-Konto (P-Konto-Freibeträge) if it is authorised to do so.
- If you have court letters, are facing a seizure of funds or assets (Pfändung), or risk losing your home, appointments are often available sooner. Explain what is happening when you call.
- Sort out your debts
- Review your income and expenses
- Organise claims against you
- Discuss your options
- Organise contact with creditors
- Prepare for insolvency (Insolvenz) if needed
This varies a lot. Some services offer drop-in sessions or emergency appointments. Online counselling can be an additional option.
No. Counselling services see people in similar situations every day. Counselling is confidential.
MeaNext provides general information about debt, payment reminders (Mahnungen), garnishment (Pfändung) and financial problems. This information does not replace individual debt, legal or financial advice. Deadlines, contracts, types of claims and personal circumstances may be crucial in your particular case.
Last reviewed by a specialist: 09/10/2026