Find out if an Individual Voluntary Arrangement can reduce your payments and write off unaffordable debts after completion. We’ll check eligibility, costs and next steps — free and confidential.
✅ Start Free IVA CheckQuick answer: An Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA) is a legally binding plan that typically freezes interest and creditor enforcement while you make one affordable monthly payment. After successful completion, remaining qualifying unsecured debt is legally written off. We’ll confirm if you’re eligible and explain every trade-off.
An IVA is a formal, legally binding agreement with your creditors to repay what you can afford over a fixed period (usually 5–6 years). Once approved, interest and most enforcement are typically frozen. After successful completion, remaining qualifying unsecured debt is written off. A licensed Insolvency Practitioner (IP) manages it.
Independent guidance: GOV.UK • MoneyHelper • StepChange
See If an IVA Fits MeGood indicators you’re in IVA territory:
We’ll check eligibility free and confirm pros/cons — plus alternatives if an IVA isn’t the best fit.
Free 60–90s Eligibility CheckYou don’t pay IVA fees upfront. They’re taken from your affordable monthly payment and agreed with creditors:
See more: IVA Protocol • Insolvency Service blog
See My Likely IVA CostsUsually included (unsecured): credit/store cards, catalogues, loans, payday loans, overdrafts, BNPL, utility arrears and some HMRC arrears.
Not included: secured debts (mortgage, HP), student loans, child maintenance and most fines. You must maintain secured payments alongside the IVA.
Neutral explainers: StepChange • Citizens Advice
Check If My Debts QualifyOfficial guidance: GOV.UK — IVAs
Start the IVA ProcessOnce your IVA is approved, creditors are generally prevented from starting or continuing most enforcement on included debts. Communications should reduce, helping you focus on the plan.
Read more: GOV.UK — CCJs • Citizens Advice — Bailiffs
Stop Pressure from Bailiffs or CourtsAn IVA will appear on your report for six years from the start date. During this time, obtaining credit can be harder. Many people still prefer the certainty of a clear end-date and structured rebuild after completion compared with years of rolling arrears.
Independent overview: MoneyHelper
Ask About Rebuilding CreditOften yes. Your IP assesses equity and affordability. If equity can’t be released, a 12-month extension is sometimes proposed instead of a sale. Keeping mortgage payments up to date is essential.
Under the IVA Protocol used by many providers, there’s often an equity review near month 54. If remortgage is unavailable or would make your budget unaffordable, a 12-month extension can be proposed. Exact handling varies by the terms agreed with your creditors.
More detail: Mortgage arrears help
Get Advice on Protecting Your HomeIf an IVA isn’t suitable, we’ll discuss safer alternatives:
Irregular income doesn’t rule you out. We’ll map seasonal swings and essential business costs so your contribution remains realistic. An IVA can stabilise creditor action and protect key trading assets while you keep operating.
Yes, if there’s a small, stable surplus after essentials. If your disposable income is very low, a DRO or token payments may be safer.
Some HMRC debts (e.g., income tax or VAT arrears) can be included and voted on by HMRC. They may require filings to be up to date and future liabilities paid on time. Your IP will confirm what’s eligible in your case.
Ask About HMRC in an IVAHP/PCP agreements are secured on the vehicle. The arrears position and lender policy matter. Many people keep essential vehicles if payments are sustainable. We’ll review your agreement and build the plan around essential transport needs.
Check If I Can Keep My CarIf you already have a CCJ, an approved IVA can usually restrict further enforcement on included debts. If there’s urgent enforcement (like an Attachment of Earnings), we’ll prioritise fast steps.
Get Help with CCJsSometimes, yes — typically via a lump-sum full and final offer funded by a third party (not your IVA savings). Creditors vote on the offer. We’ll help you prepare a realistic proposal if it’s appropriate.
Ask About Early SettlementIVAs apply to England & Wales. Scotland’s equivalent is a Protected Trust Deed or a DAS (Debt Arrangement Scheme). Northern Ireland has different processes. Use official links and we’ll guide the right route for your nation.
Get Nation-Specific HelpDifferent routes exist to set up an IVA. Here’s a simple, provider-neutral comparison to help you decide who to speak to first:
Strengths: Impartial guidance, broad solution coverage.
Consider: High demand can mean longer queues at busy times.
Good for: Anyone wanting independent guidance before choosing.
Strengths: Established processes, creditor familiarity.
Consider: High volume; service style may feel less personal.
Good for: Straightforward cases with predictable income.
Strengths: More tailored case handling, flexible thinking.
Consider: Availability varies by region/capacity.
Good for: Complex income or asset situations.
Strengths: Free, confidential triage; we compare options, explain trade-offs, and connect you with a suitable IP.
Consider: We are not a regulator; we signpost to impartial sources alongside our help.
Good for: People who want a clear, low-pressure walkthrough first.
We link out to GOV.UK, MoneyHelper and charities so you can cross-check information before deciding. You can also read our guide: How to Choose an IVA Company.
Talk to a Specialist (Free)Answer these quick questions to see whether you may be in IVA territory:
Estimate how long repayments might take without help, versus using a formal solution like an IVA:
Karen, Bristol: “Fresh Start explained everything about IVAs and helped me apply. I’m on a manageable plan and the stress has eased.”
James, London: “I avoided bankruptcy thanks to IVA advice. The team was supportive and professional throughout.”
Maria, Newcastle: “My IVA was approved quickly — I can finally see a debt-free future.” See more on our testimonials page.
Read More TestimonialsMost IVAs last 5–6 years. If equity can’t be released, a 12-month extension may be proposed.
Contact should reduce significantly once your IVA is approved. Tell us about any issues and we’ll help ensure protections are respected.
Yes. If your income or essentials change, your IP can review and propose adjustments.
The Insolvency Service oversees the framework and IPs are licensed by their professional bodies. For impartial advice, see StepChange or National Debtline. Consumer protection guidance: FCA — Debt help.
Fees are agreed with creditors and taken from your affordable payment. You don’t pay them on top.
IVAs can stop interest, halt enforcement, protect your home and — in many cases — write off unaffordable unsecured debts after completion. We’ll guide you every step, free and without judgment.
Start My Free IVA Assessment