Personal loan debt 'four times higher than last year'
The amount of personal loan debt in the UK is around four times higher than last year, according to new figures from Unbiased.co.uk.
Research by the financial advice website found that on average people have to use around 70 days worth of their salary to clear interest payments on credit cards and loans.
The study also found that personal loan levels in the UK have increased to £9.8 billion from £2.6 billion last year, while credit card debt decreased from £55.6 billion to £54.9 billion.
David Elms, Unbiased.co.uk's chief executive, said: "Compared to last year we spend almost two months longer this year to pay off the interest of our borrowings and this doesn’t event take into account mortgage costs.
"Seeking independent financial advice can be the first step to taking control of your finances," he added.
Other recent research by Unbiased.co.uk found that advisers are more likely to be approached by consumers for advice on retirement planning and investments than other topics.
© 2008 Adfero Ltd
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