Halifax Credit Card — Help if You’re Struggling (Freeze Interest & Cut Payments)

Searching for Halifax credit card info because payments are heavy? Get clear guidance on fees, rights and safer alternatives like IVA, DMP and DRO that can freeze interest and stop most enforcement once approved.

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Reviewed by: Fresh Start Debt Support team • Last updated

Why People Search “Halifax Credit Card” — and How We Can Help

Most search because they’re comparing 0% deals or their Halifax card balance is growing. If you’re only clearing interest, receiving persistent debt letters, or worried about missed payments, you need options that fit your budget—not just another card. This guide explains Halifax-specific risks (fees, cash advances, right of set-off, Section 75), then shows how to use an IVA, DMP or DRO to stabilise things.

Check If I Qualify for IVA/DMP/DRO

Halifax Credit Card Basics (Issuer-Neutral Overview)

0% Balance Transfer

Move debt from other cards. Usually a transfer fee applies. Works only if you can clear in the 0% window.

Check Halifax for current offers →

0% Purchases

Spread new spending for a set time. Best if you’ll pay off before the promo ends.

How to choose a card (MoneyHelper) →

Reality check: If you’re already missing payments or limits are tight, a new card may be declined or costly. Consider formal help that freezes interest instead.

Fees, Cash Withdrawals & Persistent Debt (What Catches People Out)

Cash withdrawals (ATMs)

Cash advances often incur a fee and interest from the day you withdraw—even during 0% purchase periods. Use sparingly.

When introductory rates end

After the 0% window, balances usually revert to the standard APR. Set a reminder one month before the end date.

Persistent debt letters

If, for 18–36 months, you pay more in interest/fees than off the balance, Halifax must contact you under FCA persistent debt rules. If their plan is unaffordable, a DMP or IVA could freeze interest and reduce pressure.

Tip: If you can’t realistically clear your Halifax balance in the promo period, moving to a DMP or IVA sooner usually costs less overall than juggling balance transfers.
Freeze Interest & Lower Payments

Your Rights on a Halifax Credit Card

Section 75 protection

Eligible purchases £100–£30,000 may be protected. Start with the retailer; if unresolved, raise it with Halifax. See the FCA on credit card protections.

Complaints & escalation

Unhappy with the outcome? You can escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service. If you’re in financial difficulty, ask Halifax for forbearance while you arrange a plan.

Right of Set-Off — Protect Your Income

If you bank with Halifax and fall behind on your Halifax credit card, the bank may offset money from your current/savings account towards arrears. See StepChange on right of set-off. Many people route their wages to a different bank while setting up a plan so essentials are covered.

Talk Through a Safe Plan

Safer Alternatives to Halifax Balance Transfers

These options focus on what you can genuinely afford and often freeze interest once approved:

DMP (Debt Management Plan)

Good for
Flexible payments; variable income
Interest
Often frozen by creditor agreement
Credit check?
No. Free DMPs from StepChange
Read our DMP guide →

IVA (Individual Voluntary Arrangement)

Good for
£6k+ unsecured debt, steady income
Protection
Legal protection; interest typically frozen
Outcome
Remaining qualifying debt can be written off after completion
Read our IVA guide →

DRO (Debt Relief Order)

Good for
Low income, low assets
Duration
12 months; debts written off if criteria stay met
Note
Recent changes removed the fee and increased thresholds (see GOV.UK)
Read our DRO guide →

Not sure which suits? We’ll compare everything side-by-side and explain trade-offs in plain English.

Compare My Options (Free)

What To Do This Week (Step-by-Step)

  1. List all debts (Halifax card + others): balance, APR, fees, minimums.
  2. Prioritise essentials (rent/mortgage, council tax, utilities) before cards.
  3. Open a safe account with a different bank if you’re behind, to avoid set-off.
  4. Pick a route: If clearing in 0% window is unlikely, look at DMP/IVA/DRO.
  5. Start the process: we’ll help freeze interest and stop most enforcement once approved.
Start the Step-by-Step Now

Quick Decision Helper

Answer two questions to see likely routes:







Repayment vs Write-Off Calculator

Estimate how long repayments might take without help, versus using a formal solution:







Halifax Credit Card — Frequently Asked Questions

What are Halifax’s current 0% offers?

Promotions change frequently. Always check live details on the official Halifax credit cards page. If you won’t clear in time, see alternatives.

Is a balance transfer better than a DMP?

It can be, only if you’ll clear within the offer window and won’t add new spending. If not, a DMP (often with frozen interest) usually wins over the long term.

What happens if I miss a Halifax payment?

You may face late fees, interest and credit-file damage. Ask Halifax for temporary help and consider Breathing Space while you set up a plan.

How does Section 75 work with Halifax?

For eligible purchases £100–£30,000 you can claim from Halifax if the retailer breaches contract or misrepresents. See the FCA’s credit card protections.

Can Halifax take money from my current account?

They may use right of set-off. Consider paying income into a different bank until you’ve agreed a plan. Read StepChange guidance.

Do DMPs, IVAs or DROs hurt my credit?

Yes, but ongoing arrears are usually worse. These solutions stop the spiral and you can rebuild after completion. See our guides: DMP, IVA, DRO.

Can I include Halifax credit card debt in an IVA/DRO?

Generally yes—most unsecured debts (cards, loans, overdrafts, BNPL) can be included. We’ll check each creditor.

Do I need a credit check for a free DMP?

No—charities like StepChange assess affordability, not your score.

Who offers impartial help?
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Trusted Sources & Official Guidance

Use these alongside our free support so you know your rights and the safest route forward.

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Related Guides

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Ready to Take Control of Your Halifax Credit Card?

If you can’t clear your balance in the 0% window—or you’re already missing payments—switching cards won’t fix the root cause. We’ll help you freeze interest, stop most enforcement and choose a plan that fits your budget, free and without pressure.

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