Due to impacts of COVID, BREXIT and other political instabilities, financial concerns are on the minds of many. Recent increases in electricity, gas and National Insurance mean many will have to borrow money to make ends meet. But what happens when you can’t make those payments? What happens when you are struggling financially and the burden of debt is too great? One possible solution is to seek a Debt Relief Order, or DRO.
What is a Debt Relief Order?
A Debt Relief Order is a way of dealing with your debts if you are struggling financially and unable to pay them.
How am I eligable?
- You must have lived or worked in England/Wales in last 3 years
- You must a have a surplus income of £75 or less per month
- Your Gross Assets aren’t worth more than £2000
- Your total amount of non-excluded debt is £30,000 or less
- You haven’t had a DRO in the last 6 years
- You aren’t subject to a bankruptcy restrictions Order or Undertaking
- You aren’t subject to a DRO or Undertaking
- You aren’t in an IVA or under an interim order
- No outstanding creditors petition unless creditor agrees nor any outstanding bankruptcy application
- You aren’t currently bankrupt
- No transaction at an undervalue within the last two years
- No preference within the past 2 years
Can I include all my debts?
In calculating the £30,000 limit you don’t consider the following as they cannot be included in the DRO and will still need to be paid.
- Criminal Fines
- Social fund Loans
- Student Loans
- Child Support
- Family court orders for maintenance, lump sums or costs
- Any money due under a criminal confiscation order
- Damages for personal injury or death
How much does it cost?
The cost of submitting a Debt Relief Order is £90.00. This fee has to be paid before the DRO application can be submitted.
Where can I get a Debt Relief Order?
You will need to apply for a Debt Relief Order through an ‘approved intermediary’. This is an authorised debt adviser who can assist with making an application on your behalf. At Advice Portsmouth, we have Approved Intermediaries who will be able to help and support.
For further information as to what is a Debt Relief order and the process involved, please read our Factsheet – Debt Relief Orders. Alternatively, please do not hesitate to contact us for further information. advice.portsmouth@theyoutrust.org.uk
