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Browse general information about common debt solutions, limitations and sources of free independent help.
Clear debt information. No jargon.
Debt worries?Understand your options.
If debts are becoming difficult to manage, understanding the support available is a good place to start. Explore general information, and if you'd like help, complete the form and a specialist debt-help company will call you about possible next steps.
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Debt solutions have different eligibility rules, fees and risks. Some can affect your credit file, home or other assets. Free, independent debt advice is also available.
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Find information first, then decide whether you want a conversation about possible next steps.
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If you'd like help, complete the form with your mobile number. MJFC Marketing Ltd passes your enquiry to a specialist debt-help company.
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The specialist company calls you directly to talk through your circumstances and the options that may be available. There's no obligation to go ahead.
A starting point, not a recommendation
Common debt solutions explained
Which options exist and how they work depends on your circumstances and where you live in the UK.
Debt Management Plans (DMPs)
Informal arrangements to repay non-priority debts. Creditors do not have to accept reduced payments or freeze interest and charges.
Available across the UK, subject to circumstancesIndividual Voluntary Arrangements (IVAs)
Formal insolvency arrangements available in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. They usually involve fees and can affect credit and assets.
Available in England, Wales and Northern Ireland; different solutions apply in ScotlandScottish Trust Deeds and DAS
Scotland has distinct options including protected trust deeds and the Debt Arrangement Scheme. Eligibility and consequences vary.
Scotland-specific informationOther debt and insolvency options
Depending on your nation and circumstances, options may include bankruptcy, debt relief orders or informal creditor arrangements. Free advice can help assess them.
Rules differ by UK nationTake a closer look
Understand the main debt options
Open each option for a short explanation, important considerations and further guidance.
This is general information, not a recommendation for your circumstances or a complete list of options. Eligibility depends on your finances and where you live in the UK. A qualified debt adviser can assess these details and explain the alternatives before you decide.
Debt Management Plan (DMP)Across the UK
A DMP spreads repayments on non-priority unsecured debts, such as credit cards and personal loans. A provider usually distributes a regular payment between creditors.
Things to consider: It is informal: creditors can refuse reduced payments, continue interest or take recovery action. Lower payments may extend repayment and affect your credit record. Free providers are available; others charge fees. Rent, mortgage and other priority bills need separate attention.
Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA)England, Wales and Northern Ireland
An IVA is a formal insolvency agreement supervised by an insolvency practitioner. If approved, it sets out how you will pay towards included debts. Remaining included debt may be written off when you successfully complete its terms.
Things to consider: Fees apply. An IVA affects your credit record, is publicly recorded and can affect assets, including home equity. Not every debt can be included. If it fails, you may still owe money and bankruptcy is possible. Independent advice can help you compare alternatives.
Debt Relief Order (DRO)England, Wales and Northern Ireland; separate eligibility rules apply
A DRO is a formal insolvency option for people who meet limits on debt, income and assets. Payments on included debts are normally paused for 12 months; those debts may then be written off if the conditions remain satisfied.
Things to consider: Applications go through an approved adviser. A DRO affects credit and involves restrictions and a public insolvency record. Some debts are excluded, and ongoing bills still need paying. Check the current rules for your nation; DROs are not available in Scotland.
BankruptcyUK processes differ; called sequestration in Scotland
Bankruptcy is a formal insolvency process that can deal with debts someone cannot repay. It can release a person from many debts, but some remain payable.
Things to consider: A home and other assets may be sold, and payments from spare income may be required. It affects credit and brings restrictions and a public record. Procedures and costs vary by nation. Get advice on the consequences and alternatives before applying.
Protected Trust DeedScotland
A trust deed involves paying towards debts through a trustee, usually over four years. Remaining included debts may be written off after successful completion. Protected status provides legal protection against recovery action on included debts.
Things to consider: Protection is not automatic. Trustee fees apply and may come from contributions or assets. Your credit record is affected, and your home or other assets may be at risk. An adviser should explain eligibility, obligations and alternatives.
Debt Arrangement Scheme (DAS)Scotland
DAS uses an approved debt payment programme to repay included debts over time at an affordable rate. It provides protection from creditor recovery action, with interest and charges frozen while its conditions are met.
Things to consider: You need advice and an assessment from a qualified money adviser. Repayment can take time, and your credit record can be affected. A free debt advice service can help explain eligibility and the programme's obligations.
Frequently asked questions
Does Debt Explained UK provide personal debt advice?
No. We provide general information and, where requested, information about possible introductions. MJFC Marketing Ltd does not assess which debt solution is suitable for your personal finances. Seek suitably authorised advice before making decisions.
Who contacts me if I complete the form?
A third-party specialist debt-help company. With your permission, MJFC Marketing Ltd passes your enquiry to that company, which will call you directly on the mobile number you provided. MJFC Marketing Ltd does not call applicants itself.
Is the enquiry free?
Yes. There is no charge to submit an enquiry and no obligation to proceed. Some debt solutions and firms charge fees, and some options have serious effects on credit, property or finances.
Will sending an enquiry harm my credit score?
Completing this contact form does not itself involve a credit check. Some debt solutions may affect your credit file or have other serious consequences.
Can I change my mind?
Submitting the form asks us to pass your details to a specialist debt-help company so that it can call you. You can still withdraw that permission at any time, or tell the specialist company you do not want further help. Neither affects the general information on this website.
Where can I get free, independent debt advice?
You can find support via MoneyHelper's debt advice information. Free advice is available without using our service.
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