In the UK, there are several options for individuals to have their debt written off. However, it’s important to note that these options are not always available, and it may be necessary to pay back at least some of the debt. Here are some of the options that may be available:
Bankruptcy: This is a legal process that involves transferring all of the individual’s assets to a court-appointed trustee, who will sell the assets to pay off as much of the debt as possible. Any remaining debt will be written off. However, bankruptcy can have serious consequences, such as the individual losing their home and being unable to obtain credit for several years.
Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA): This is a formal agreement between the individual and their creditors to pay back a portion of the debt over a period of time. Once the agreed upon payments have been made, any remaining debt will be written off.
Debt Relief Order (DRO): This option is available to individuals with low income and few assets. A DRO can be obtained by applying to a government agency called the Insolvency Service. If the application is approved, the individual’s debts will be frozen for a period of time, and any remaining debt will be written off at the end of the DRO period.
Debt Management Plan (DMP): This is a informal arrangement between the individual and their creditors to pay back the debt over a period of time. A DMP is not a legally binding agreement, so creditors are not required to agree to it. However, if the individual is able to make the agreed upon payments, any remaining debt may be written off at the end of the DMP period.
It’s important to note that these options are not always available, and it may be necessary to pay back at least some of the debt. In addition, it’s advisable to seek the advice of a financial advisor or debt charity before making any decisions about how to deal with debt.
Sources:
https://www.gov.uk/bankruptcy/overview
https://www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/en/articles/individual-voluntary-arrangements-ivas
https://www.insolvencydirect.bis.gov.uk/otherinformation/drainedirect/debtrelieforder.htm
https://www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/en/articles/debt-management-plans