Key takeaway
If you're struggling with debt or budgeting in Ireland, MABS offers free, confidential money advice. Here's how it works and what other supports are available.
What is MABS?
MABS — the Money Advice and Budgeting Service — is a free, confidential, and non-judgmental service for people in Ireland who are in debt or struggling to manage their money. It is funded by the Irish government and operated by the Citizens Information Board. There is no means test — anyone can use the service.
What MABS can help with
- Creating a household budget and identifying savings
- Dealing with mortgage arrears
- Managing rent arrears
- Credit card and loan debt
- Utility bill debt (electricity, gas)
- Moneylender or high-interest debt
- Debt from abroad that has followed you to Ireland
How to access MABS
Call the MABS helpline at 0818 07 2000 (Monday–Friday, 9am–8pm). You can also arrange a face-to-face appointment at your local MABS office — find your nearest at mabs.ie. The service is completely free and confidential.
Insolvency options
If your debts are more serious, the Insolvency Service of Ireland (ISI) provides several formal debt resolution options including Debt Relief Notices (for debts under €35,000), Debt Settlement Arrangements, and Personal Insolvency Arrangements. MABS can refer you to an insolvency practitioner if appropriate.
Other free financial supports
Citizens Information — free advice on entitlements, benefits, and rights that may help your financial situation.
FLAC (Free Legal Advice Centres) — free legal advice including debt-related legal issues.
Credit unions — if you need to borrow money, credit unions offer significantly lower rates than banks or moneylenders.
General guidance only. Always verify with official sources — gov.ie, citizensinformation.ie, hse.ie.