Alternatives to bankruptcy explained
Sunday, October 9th, 2011More and more people have started to struggle financially over the last few years as the cost of certain items has gone up quite significantly. Despite still buying only what they have always bought, people’s outgoings have risen by a large amount. Because of this a lot of people have had to take out loans, use credit cards and or overdrafts in order to continue to afford the things they need. This has left a lot of people in debt and facing possible bankruptcy. There are however a number of alternatives to bankruptcy which are a much better option.
For a person who is really struggling and who does not own their own home, there is the option of a debt relief order. This is suitable for a person who has less than 300 of assets and up to 15,000 of debt. For a person to take a debt relief order, their income after tax, national insurance and reasonable household expenses should not exceed 50. The debt relief order gives the person 12 months where their debtors will not try to reclaim the money owed.
There is also the option of an individual voluntary arrangement where a person agrees to pay all or part of their debts. This route involves the courts but if they agree, they will stop creditors involved from seeking further payment or appealing for the person to seek bankruptcy. This option can also help if a person would like to keep certain assets such as their house whereas others will not give the person this option.
For people with a smaller debt of less than 5000, there is the option to seek and administration order. This alternative freezes their debt and interest and they deal with the court from thereon instead of the credit company. They must make an agreed monthly payment to the court who will then break down that payment between the companies who are owed money.
Another option people have is to come to an informal agreement with the companies they owe money. This can be in the form of a settlement or a payment schedule. The problem with this option is that the creditors do not have to uphold it by law and can back out at any time.
Are you looking for alternatives to bankruptcy? Speak to an expert.


