If you have multiple debts that you are struggling to deal with, you may have considered debt consolidation as one option. Debt consolidation is a good way of potentially reducing your monthly payments and simplifying your finances. But as with any debt solution, it comes with its downsides - and it's always worth speaking to a debt adviser to discuss whether another debt solution may be more suited to your situation.

Debt consolidation: how it works

Debt consolidation is a way of combining all your debts into one, and then paying them off in monthly payments to only one creditor, rather than individual payments to all of your creditors. It is essentially another loan that pays off your existing debts -your lender will pay off your debts for you, and you will repay that lender accordingly.

An advantage of debt consolidation loans is that they can be scheduled over a longer period of time than your original debts, making your monthly payments lower. If your original debts included high-APR credit such as credit cards, there's a good chance your overall interest rate will be lower too.

However, be aware that repaying a debt consolidation loan over a longer period of time may result in you paying more money back in the long run, as interest will be added for every month taken to repay the debt.

When should I consider a debt consolidation loan?

* If you have multiple debts that you think will be affordable if you spread them out over a longer period.

* If your debts are currently manageable, but you would like to simplify your monthly finances.

* If you have a number of high-APR loans or credit cards - a debt consolidation loan can reduce your interest rates significantly.

When is a debt consolidation not suitable?

* If your monthly payments will still be a struggle after you have rescheduled them. Particularly if you have debts of over £15,000, you may want to consider an IVA (Individual Voluntary Arrangement) or another debt solution - contact an expert debt adviser for further information.

* If you are considering 'topping up' your debt consolidation loan with money you do not need, i.e. to enable another expensive purchase. Many people are tempted, but doing so will increase your risk of being unable to repay the loan, which carries serious consequences.

Before considering any debt solution, it's essential that you seek expert advice from a professional debt adviser. They will talk you through your financial situation in confidence and help decide which debt solution is best suited to you. Debt consolidation loans are suitable for some people, but it's also worth considering a debt management plan, and for those with over £15,000 of debt, an IVA may be the best option.