With the postal strike gathering momentum it is estimated that around 20 million letters and parcels are waiting to be cleared, some of theses will be credit card and store card statements. It is estimated that around 55 million items of post are sent through the system every day.

Apart from receiving late statements making payments is also causing a major problem. Those consumers that usually pay by cheque and then post it to the lender will also find that their payment is being delayed. This then will incur a late payment charge and go on their credit file as late payment.

The majority of lenders generate late payment penalties on credit cards by computer so there is no human touch, therefore thousands are expected to be hit with additional charges which are not their fault.

This is not just affecting borrowing; consumers will also find that they are technically behind with their utility payments, which will once more be detailed on their credit reports and cause misery and stress.

DebtWizard Advice

Contact your lender or utility supplier and ask for details to make payment online. Often how to do this is on the back of an older statement.

Alternatively you could go to the Post Office and make payment by cheque, postal order, debit card or cash over the counter. You will then get your payment slip date stamped to prove date of payment. Big important thing to remember if you do this CANCEL your cheque that is languishing in the post hold-up; otherwise you will eventually pay twice.

You should really know when your statement is due. If it does not arrive on or around the normal date then contact the lender or utility supplier to find the balance and how much you should be paying. Then consider my advice above.

Whilst this advice will not meet every case and help everyone it is a good starting point.