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For many UK homeowners over the age of 55, retiring with an outstanding mortgage or lingering personal debt can be a significant source of stress. Equity release is a highly effective way to unlock the tax-free wealth tied up in your property. By using an equity release for mortgage clearance or debt consolidation, you can dramatically reduce your monthly outgoings and enjoy the peace of mind you deserve in your retirement.

Discover if equity release is the right choice for you with the help of our trusted partners’ expert advisers. Get personalised guidance from trusted advisers to make informed decisions about releasing equity from your home.

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Release Equity to Clear Mortgage & Debts

What is Equity Release?

Equity release allows homeowners aged 55 and over to access the cash tied up in their property without having to move. Unlike standard remortgages or personal loans, you do not necessarily have to make monthly repayments.

There are two main types of equity release:

  • Lifetime Mortgage: You take out a loan secured on your home, which is repaid when you pass away or move into long-term care. You retain full ownership of your property. 
  • Home Reversion Plan: You sell a portion or all of your property to a provider in exchange for a lump sum or regular payments, continuing to live in the property rent-free. 
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How Equity Release Can Help with Mortgages

If you are approaching retirement with an existing interest-only or repayment mortgage, you can use released equity to pay off the outstanding mortgage balance entirely.

Benefits

  • Reduce monthly outgoings – Free up your monthly income by eliminating costly mortgage payments.
  • Avoid repossession risks – Secure your living situation and remove the threat of losing your home if you cannot meet standard mortgage terms.

Considerations

  • Impact on inheritance – Releasing equity will reduce the value of the estate you leave behind.
  • Fees and interest – The loan amount will accrue interest over time, which must be factored into your long-term planning.
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Using Equity Release to Pay Off Other Debts

Homeowners often use equity release to pay off debts, allowing them to consolidate multiple financial burdens into one manageable solution.

You can use the funds to clear:

  • Personal loans
  • Credit card debt
  • Payday loans

Advantages

  • Consolidating high-interest debts – Instantly clear debts that carry exorbitant interest rates.
  • Reducing monthly outgoings – Regain control of your monthly budget by removing the pressure of varied loan repayments.

Risks

  • Increasing total interest over time – While short-term debt is cleared, a lifetime mortgage will accrue compound interest over the years.
  • Reducing equity in the home: – You will have less equity available for future needs or to pass on to your beneficiaries.

Pros and Cons of Using Equity Release for Debts

Pros:

  • Quick access to tax-free funds.
  • Dramatically reduce or completely remove monthly debt obligations.
  • No need for regular repayments with most lifetime mortgages.

Cons:

  • Interest compounds over time, increasing the total amount owed.
  • Results in less inheritance for your heirs.
  • It is not suitable for everyone and requires careful consideration.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for equity release, you must meet certain criteria:

  • Minimum age requirements: You (and your partner, if applying jointly) must be at least 55 years old for a lifetime mortgage, or 65 for a home reversion plan.
  • Property ownership rules: The property must be your main residence and meet the lender’s minimum valuation criteria.
  • Mortgage considerations: You can apply if you are mortgage-free or if you have an existing mortgage. However, the released funds must first be used to clear any outstanding mortgage on the property.
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Alternatives to Equity Release

Before proceeding, it is vital to consider other options. Our recommended partners provide advice that will help you weigh equity release against alternatives such as:

  • Remortgaging: Securing a standard mortgage on better terms, provided you meet affordability and age criteria.
  • Personal loans: Taking out an unsecured loan, which may be cheaper if you can afford the monthly repayments.
  • Debt consolidation plans: Working with debt charities or financial organisations to manage and reduce your current debts without securing them against your home.
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Costs and Risks

When you release equity to pay off debts, it is important to understand the associated costs.

  • Typical fees: You may need to pay arrangement fees to the lender, property valuation fees, and solicitor fees for the legal work.
  • Interest rates: Lifetime mortgages typically feature a fixed interest rate. However, the interest rolls up and compounds over time, meaning the debt grows.
  • Early repayment penalties: If you decide to pay off a lifetime mortgage early, you may face significant early repayment charges.
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Why Choose Us for Equity Release?

Deciding on equity release is a big decision, and we’re here to make it easy, affordable, and stress-free. With over 25 years of experience, we’ve guided thousands of UK homeowners through the process with expertise and care.

Here’s why so many people trust us for equity release advice:

  • Trusted by the Equity Release Council – We connect you with advisers accredited by the Equity Release Council to ensure the highest ethical and professional standards.
  • Honest and Objective Recommendations – Advisers in our network don’t work on commission; they focus solely on finding the best option for you. Whether equity release suits your goals or not, you’ll receive completely impartial advice.
  • No Advice Fees – No hidden advice fees! We take care of any adviser commission once your lifetime mortgage is completed. That’s one less cost to worry about.
  • Personalised Guidance – Equity release isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. You’ll receive recommendations tailored to your individual financial needs and circumstances.
  • Explore All Your Options – Our commitment is to help you make the best decision for your future. Alternatives to equity release will always be discussed in detail.
  • Experience You Can Trust – Since 1998, we’ve been helping individuals unlock the benefits of lifetime mortgages. Our process ensures clarity, transparency, and peace of mind.
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How It Works

Navigating equity release doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Our simple process ensures clarity, confidence, and support every step of the way.

Free Initial Chat

Your assigned adviser will confirm both you and your home meet the basic equity release requirements and answer initial questions.

Personalised Insights

Your adviser will explain the essential details, including how much equity you could release, estimated interest rates, potential costs, and any risks.

Tailored Solutions

If equity release suits your needs, you’ll receive a recommendation that’s fully tailored to your goals. Need more time to decide? No problem—we’re here when you’re ready.

Complete Support

From your first conversation until your application is completed, we’ll provide full support to make the process as smooth as possible.

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What Our Customer Say

We’ve helped thousands of UK homeowners make empowering financial decisions. Here’s what a few of them had to say about our service:

“I felt reassured knowing I was under no pressure and could ask all the questions I needed before deciding. The adviser was knowledgeable and transparent. Highly recommend!“

– Margaret T., Surrey

“They gave me honest, unbiased advice and took the time to explain everything. I ended up not pursuing equity release this time, but the service was first class.“

– John H., Manchester

“I was worried about the inheritance impact, but my adviser made the options very clear. I’m now confident I’ve chosen the best solution for my family.”

– Linda P., Edinburgh

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I release equity if I still have a mortgage?
Yes, you can. However, a condition of the equity release plan will be that the new funds must first be used to pay off your existing mortgage in full.
Will I lose my home if I take equity release for debts?
No. With a lifetime mortgage approved by the Equity Release Council, you are guaranteed the right to live in your home for the rest of your life or until you move into long-term care.
Can I use equity release to pay off my mortgage?
Yes, equity release is commonly used to pay off an existing mortgage, provided the released funds are sufficient to cover the outstanding balance.
What are the risks of using equity release to clear debt?
Risks include reduced inheritance, accumulating interest over time, and potential impact on means-tested benefits.
How much equity can I release from my home?
The amount depends on your age, property value, and lender criteria, typically ranging from 20% to 60% of your home’s value.
Do I need to make monthly repayments on equity release?
Most lifetime mortgages do not require monthly repayments, although some plans allow voluntary payments to reduce interest.
How much can I release safely?
The amount you can release depends on your age, health, and the value of your property. Our partners’ advisers will calculate this for you and ensure you only release what you truly need. 
Will equity release affect my benefits?
Yes, releasing equity could impact eligibility for certain means-tested benefits, depending on how the funds are used.
Is equity release a good idea for clearing mortgage debt?
It can be a useful solution for some homeowners, but it is important to consider long-term costs and seek independent financial advice before proceeding.
Are there tax implications?
The cash you release is entirely tax-free. However, it may affect your entitlement to certain means-tested state benefits. Your adviser will discuss this with you during your consultation.
Can I use my own financial adviser?

Yes, you can consult your current financial adviser or find one independently. Alternatively, we can connect you with a trusted, FCA-approved adviser from our network. 

Still have questions? Our advisers are just a call away.

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Secure Your Financial Peace of Mind Today

Using equity release to clear your mortgage or consolidate high-interest debts can be a transformative step, giving you the financial freedom to enjoy life on your terms. Because equity release will reduce the value of your estate and can affect means-tested benefits, it is crucial to seek independent financial advice. Our trusted partners are ready to provide the regulated advice you need to make an informed, confident decision.

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Helpful Guides

Equity Release Interest Rates in 2026: What to Expect

Charlie CarrolBy Charlie Carrol | June 06, 2026 | 6 min read

by | Jan 13, 2026 |

Equity release interest rates in 2026 have become more stable following recent economic uncertainty, giving UK homeowners greater clarity when planning their retirement finances. While rates remain higher than historic lows, increased competition among lenders and...

Equity Release: The Myths and the Facts

Charlie CarrolBy Charlie Carrol | June 08, 2026 | 5 min read

by | Nov 19, 2025 |

Equity release is a popular way for homeowners over 55 to access the wealth tied up in their property. Despite its growing use, many myths and misconceptions can cause confusion and prevent people from making informed decisions. It's time to set the record straight....

Equity Release – What You Need to Consider

Charlie CarrolBy Charlie Carrol | June 08, 2026 | 6 min read

by | Oct 13, 2025 |

In recent years, equity release has become an increasingly popular financial option for homeowners in retirement. It offers the opportunity to unlock the value tied up in your property and use it to fund your later years. However, like any financial decision, equity...