Young more likely to deal with their debt problems online than older generations 

18 June, 2013

StepChange Debt Charity has identified an age divide when it comes to how people deal with their debt problems. While there is almost an even split between those under and over the age of 40 using its helpline, its online debt advice tool Debt Remedy is far more popular with those under. Since the start of the year, almost 35,000 (34,542) people under the age of 40 used its online advice tool Debt Remedy compared to 22,781 for those over the age of 40.

The charity says that this is a reflection of the fact that young adults are more likely to go online regularly than older generations as well as generally being more comfortable with using online tools. The charity says that younger adults have reported that the speed at which people they can receive debt advice using the tool and its 24 hour accessibility are important factors in them choosing to go online to deal with their debt problems.

Commenting on the findings, Delroy Corinaldi, external affairs director at StepChange Debt Charity, said: 

“With young adults, particularly those in their twenties, growing up with the internet, it is not surprising that so many are comfortable seeking help online.

“It is welcome that the young are fully utilising all of the ways that they can get help with their debts as the sooner a debt problem is dealt with, the easier it is to remedy.”

StepChange Debt Charity’s free online debt advice tool is available from their website homepage, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.