Which debt solution is right for me?
A short triage of the debt options available in England and Wales — informal repayment and DMPs, Breathing Space, Debt Relief Orders, IVAs, bankruptcy, statute-barred checks, and full-and-final settlement — based on your debt level, assets, and surplus income.
This is general guidance for England and Wales, not personalised debt advice. Formal insolvency (a DRO, IVA, or bankruptcy) has lasting consequences and some steps cannot be undone — always speak to a free, regulated debt adviser at StepChange, Citizens Advice, or National Debtline before committing to any option. The planned Statutory Debt Repayment Plan (SDRP) is not in force as of August 2026 and is not offered as an option here — see our SDRP status guide.
Are you behind on any "priority" debts — rent or mortgage, council tax, gas or electricity, court fines, or child maintenance?
Priority debts are the ones where non-payment can cost you your home, your energy supply, or (for fines and child maintenance) even your liberty. They must be dealt with before credit cards and loans.
Disclaimer