Fresh Start Debt Support
If you're struggling with debt in the UK, you may have come across two popular solutions: the Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA) and the Debt Relief Order (DRO). But which one is right for you?
Choosing between an IVA or DRO isn’t always straightforward. Both options are designed to help people get out of unmanageable debt — but they have very different criteria, advantages, and long-term effects.
At Fresh Start Debt Support, we’ve helped thousands of people across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland navigate the IVA vs DRO decision. This guide will help you understand the differences, benefits, and how to get started.
Get Free Help Choosing IVA or DROOne of the biggest differences between an IVA and a DRO is the eligibility criteria. Your income, assets, and level of debt will play a key role in which option is right for you.
If you’re unsure which category you fall into, we can help. A quick chat with a member of our team can clarify which debt solution fits your situation.
Check If I Qualify for IVA or DROBoth IVAs and DROs are powerful tools to deal with debt, but they work differently. Here's a side-by-side breakdown to help you decide which one is right for your situation:
Still not sure? Don’t worry — that’s what we’re here for. We’ll assess your situation confidentially and help you choose between IVA or DRO with no pressure.
Find the Right Debt Solution For MeLet’s break down how each debt solution works, step-by-step. Knowing what to expect can help ease anxiety and make things feel more manageable.
Both routes offer a fresh start — and we’ll guide you from start to finish. No stress, no judgment, just straightforward support tailored to your needs.
See If I Qualify For IVA or DROWhen it comes to debt solutions, there’s a lot of misinformation out there. Let’s clear up some of the biggest myths about IVAs and DROs:
✅ False. Most people who go into an IVA or DRO keep their home. With an IVA, mortgage payments are included in your budget. With a DRO, you can qualify even if you're renting.
✅ False. IVAs and DROs are private arrangements. They do appear on the public Insolvency Register, but very few employers ever check it unless you're in a financial services role.
⏳ Not quite. With an IVA, debts are written off after your affordable payments finish (usually 5 years). With a DRO, it’s after a 12-month protection period.
✅ False. Life changes. If your situation shifts, we can re-evaluate your options. Some people start with a DMP or Breathing Space before moving to an IVA or DRO later.
⛔ False. Your credit rating is affected — but not forever. Most people’s credit file recovers within 6 years, and many improve financially by stopping interest, stress, and defaults.
Getting the facts is essential. At Fresh Start, we explain every option clearly, so you make decisions with confidence — not fear.
Get Honest Answers About IVA or DROAt Fresh Start Debt Support, we’re not here to push you into one option. Our team is trained to help you understand both IVAs and DROs fully — then guide you toward the most appropriate solution based on your needs.
Here’s how we help:
Our mission is to help you feel in control of your finances again — whether that means monthly repayments through an IVA, or complete debt write-off through a DRO.
Get My Free IVA or DRO AssessmentOnce you've spoken to a Fresh Start adviser, we’ll walk you through everything step-by-step. Here's what the typical process looks like:
Whether you choose an IVA or a DRO, you’ll have expert help every step of the way — no confusion, no stress.
See If I Qualify for IVA or DROThousands of people across the UK have successfully used an IVA or DRO to clear their debts and get a fresh financial start. Here are just a few examples of how lives can change:
"I owed over £18,000 across credit cards, catalogues, and payday loans. The pressure was unbearable. Fresh Start helped me set up an IVA, and now I make one simple payment each month. No more calls, no more threats. I feel human again."
"I lost my job and had less than £50 a month spare after bills. My debts were just over £6,000. I thought there was no way out — but Fresh Start helped me apply for a DRO. 12 months later, I'm completely debt-free. It’s like a weight has been lifted."
"We were behind on gas, council tax, and had loan arrears. We didn’t think a solution was possible with kids at home. Fresh Start supported us through a joint IVA, and it’s changed everything. We’ve got our lives — and dignity — back."
We’re here to listen, not judge. No matter your background or how far behind you are, there’s a solution — and we’ll help you find it.
Start My Own Fresh StartIt depends on your situation. If you have low income, minimal assets, and debts under £30,000, a DRO might be better. If you have a stable income and higher debts, an IVA may be more suitable. We’ll help you decide what fits best.
Yes. Both an IVA and a DRO offer legal protection from creditor contact. Once your solution is approved, calls, letters, and court threats must stop.
An IVA can be arranged in as little as 1–2 weeks. A DRO application can also be processed quickly once submitted — usually within 10 working days.
Yes, both IVAs and DROs will appear on your credit file for 6 years. However, for many people already in arrears, credit is already affected — and clearing debts is the most important step forward.
Yes. You can include priority debts like council tax, gas, electricity, rent arrears, and even old benefit overpayments in both IVAs and DROs.
No. Both IVAs and DROs are arranged entirely online or over the phone with qualified professionals. No court appearance is required.
Ask My Own QuestionAt Fresh Start Debt Support, we help people from every corner of the UK access the right debt solution. Whether you're eligible for an IVA or a DRO, our team is here to guide you — no matter where you live.
All our services are delivered online or over the phone — so there’s no need to visit an office or attend face-to-face meetings. We’ve helped people in cities, towns, and rural areas get their fresh start.
No matter where you are in the UK, our friendly team is just a message away. Get the support you deserve from the comfort of your own home.
Get IVA or DRO Help NowWhether you're considering an IVA or a DRO, taking that first step can feel overwhelming — but you're not alone. At Fresh Start Debt Support, we're here to make things easier with friendly, confidential guidance tailored to your situation.
Thousands of people across the UK have already turned their lives around using formal debt solutions. You can too.
You’ve got nothing to lose — and peace of mind to gain. Whether you qualify for an IVA, a DRO, or something else entirely, we’ll find your best path forward.
Check If I Qualify for an IVA or DRO