A catalogue allows you to buy goods and spread the cost over a period of time. You can have an account in your name or buy through a local agent.

Although it may seem like an easy way to budget for larger purchases, it is usually possible to find the same goods cheaper in high street shops.

You will often find that the interest you pay may be higher than that of a credit card. The interest increases the amount you pay for the items you buy.

Catalogues are usually regulated by the Consumer Credit Act but there are some exceptions. These are goods which must be paid for on receipt, or over four or fewer instalments.

If you cannot pay your catalogue and you are using an agent, they will arrange for the catalogue company to bill you directly. The creditor will then follow their collections process. They may eventually issue a default notice and take court action.

If you are having problems paying your debts we can help you. You can use our online debt counselling service, CCCS Debt Remedy, which will provide you with the most appropriate solution to your debt problem. Alternatively contact our free Helpline on 0800 138 1111.

Yes, you can cancel any mail order catalogue agreement by returning the goods within seven days of receiving them.

If you have to make a complaint about a mail order catalogue, contact the creditor themselves first.

The creditor is the company who provides the finance, and the catalogue brand is likely to be a trading name only.

Creditors offering mail order catalogues must have a consumer credit licence to trade, so if your complaint is not resolved within eight weeks, it can be referred to the Financial Ombudsman Service.

The main trade body, the British Retail Consortium has a code of practice which you can refer to if you make a complaint about a member company.