Last Updated:

May 16th, 2025

Local Debtors Anonymous (DA) Meetings

What is Debtors Anonymous?

Debtors Anonymous is a 12-step programme created for people who struggle with compulsive debting, overspending, financial avoidance or under-earning. Just like Alcoholics Anonymous helps with addiction to alcohol, DA focuses on recovery from unhealthy financial behaviours.

DA doesn’t focus on spreadsheets or budgeting apps; rather, it focuses on addressing the underlying patterns and beliefs that lead to financial chaos in the first place.

Debtor-files

A brief history of Debtors Anonymous

Debtors Anonymous was founded in 1968 by ‘John H.’, a member of Alcoholics Anonymous who realised that his problems with money were following a similar pattern to his issues with alcohol. He applied the same 12-step principles to his financial life and saw real change. Others began to join him, and DA meetings slowly began to appear across the United States and, eventually, around the world.

Is Debtors Anonymous only for people with extreme debt?

Not at all. A common misconception is that DA is only for people facing bankruptcy or overwhelming debt. In reality, the programme welcomes anyone who feels out of control with their finances, no matter the numbers in their bank account.

You might be:

  • Constantly overspending and hiding purchases from loved ones
  • Earning a decent income but still living paycheck to paycheck
  • Avoiding bills, bank statements or financial conversations
  • Under-earning and afraid to charge appropriately for your work
  • Trapped in cycles of feast and famine, unable to build long-term stability

If any of this feels familiar, DA could be a place of support and relief. You don’t have to wait for things to spiral completely, and the earlier you reach out, the sooner you will start to feel more grounded.

Is Debtors Anonymous the same as credit counselling?

You may have heard about credit counselling and wondered if it is related to DA. The reality is that these are two separate groups offering different services.

Credit counselling is a practical service often focused on creating repayment plans, negotiating with creditors and improving your credit score. While it can be helpful for managing the logistics of debt, it doesn’t usually address the emotional or behavioural side of money problems.

Debtors Anonymous takes a different approach. It works on the root causes, like:

  • Why you may continue to spend even when you know better
  • Why you may avoid opening letters
  • Why money always feels like a source of shame

DA is more about fixing the whys rather than focusing on reducing the debt directly.

Some people choose to use both. DA for emotional and behavioural recovery and credit counselling for structured financial advice. The aim is to find the combination that works best for you.

What literature and tools does DA use in their meetings?

 

DA has a range of tools and readings that help members on their journey. Some of the most commonly used include:

  • The 12 Steps and 12 Traditions of DA, adapted from AA
  • DA pamphlets that address specific issues, such as compulsive shopping or fear of earning
  • A daily action plan, which may include writing down spending, creating a simple budget (called a Spending Plan) and avoiding new unsecured debt
  • Pressure relief meetings, where two experienced members support you in reviewing your finances without judgment
  • Record keeping and earning clarity tools, which help bring more awareness to spending and income habits

These tools are not enforced rules but gentle suggestions that many members find incredibly helpful. They’re designed to bring awareness and clarity, two things that can feel missing when someone is lost in financial confusion.

Debtor-case-in-court

What happens at a DA meeting?

If you’re curious about what actually happens in a DA meeting, it’s helpful to know that they’re simple and built around connection and healing.

When you arrive, you’ll be welcomed by a chairperson who will lead the meeting. The group usually begins with a few short readings from DA literature, including the 12 Steps, the 12 Tools and the DA preamble. These help set the tone and remind everyone why they’re there.

After the readings, members are invited to share their experiences, either related to the day’s topic or whatever is on their minds. Sharing is always voluntary, and there’s never any pressure to speak. You can attend your first few meetings just to listen and get a feel for the space.

There’s no cross-talk (interrupting or offering advice during someone’s share), which helps create a safe and respectful environment. Everyone’s journey is treated with care and confidentiality.

At the end of the meeting, there may be time for newcomers to introduce themselves if they wish, followed by announcements and an optional moment of quiet or prayer. Then the meeting closes and members may stick around to chat or connect one-to-one if they’d like support.

What are the benefits of joining Debtors Anonymous?

Many people come to DA feeling ashamed or alone but leave meetings with a growing sense of peace and possibility. The benefits aren’t just financial. They’re emotional and deeply personal.

Here are some of the most common benefits members report:

  • Relief from financial secrecy and shame
  • A clearer picture of their money behaviours
  • Support from people who truly understand
  • A sense of accountability without pressure
  • The ability to make choices from a place of calm, not panic
  • Increased self-worth and confidence when facing financial decisions

Most importantly, DA helps people realise that recovery is possible. You don’t need to fix everything overnight. All you need is a willingness to try something different and the support of people who’ve been there.

How do I find a Debtors Anonymous meeting near me?

Finding a DA meeting is simple and can be done online in just a few clicks. The official Debtors Anonymous website has a searchable meeting list that includes in-person and online meetings sorted by day, time, format and even country.

You may even discover that there’s a meeting held just down the road from where you live, something you never noticed until now. Meetings are commonly held in local libraries, community halls and, increasingly, online via platforms like Zoom.

Feeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone.

If everything feels a bit much right now, you don’t have to deal with this alone. Addiction Helper is here to support you. Our trained advisors can help you explore whether Debtors Anonymous is right for you, answer questions about meetings or assist you in finding a group that fits your situation.

Whether you’re struggling with money problems or a family member watching someone you care about spiral, there is help and hope.

Recovery doesn’t have to start with a perfect budget or a debt-free plan. It can begin by showing up and allowing yourself to be supported. Addiction Helper can offer a path forward.

Reclaim Your Life Today

Our compassionate team are ready and available to take your call, and guide you towards lasting the lasting addiction recovery you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Debtors Anonymous?
Debtors Anonymous is a 12-step programme that helps people recover from compulsive spending, debting, financial avoidance and under-earning by offering structured support and a community of shared experience.
Are DA meetings only for people in debt?
No, DA meetings are for anyone who feels out of control with money, including those who overspend, under-earn or avoid dealing with finances, even if they aren’t in debt.
Can someone attend DA meetings online?
Yes, DA offers many online meetings through video or phone platforms. These are great options if you prefer privacy, live remotely or want a convenient way to stay connected.

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