Can I change from a DMP to an IVA?

A Debt Management Plan (DMP for short) is an agreement between you and your creditors to repay your unsecured debt in manageable monthly instalments. Because a DMP is an informal arrangement, you are not lawfully obliged to remain within it until its completion. As such, you can choose to leave at any time from DMP to an IVA, or an other debt solution.

Why would you want to leave a DMP?

Different debt solutions suit different situations. Because circumstances are always changing, you may want to leave a DMP for a number of reasons. For one, the nature of a DMP means that creditors have no obligation to freeze interest and charges on your account. The increasing interest and charges may then become too expensive for you to cope with, and could worsen your situation rather than improve it.

Another reason for wanting to leave a DMP could be a change in your financial situation. You may find you have less coming in at the end of the month, and you can no longer afford the repayments initially agreed upon.

On the other hand, your financial situation may improve. Perhaps you’ve come into a lump sum via inheritance or otherwise. You want to use this extra money to pay off your debts more quickly. In this case, you can choose a debt settlement, to pay off part – or all – of your debt.

In an Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA) your Insolvency Practitioner can put these funds towards making a full and final offer to clear your debts.

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What is an IVA?

An IVA is a legally binding debt solution and a form of insolvency,. It allows you to pay off a proportion of your debt over a fixed period of time.

Learn more about Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVAs) →

Why might an IVA seem to be more favourable?

An IVA might be a preferred debt solution due to the distance it puts between you and your creditors. By law, creditors aren’t allowed to chase for your debt once you’ve agreed to enter into the IVA.

Furthermore, after a typical 5-6 year period any remaining debt is written off. Unlike in a DMP, where the repayments need to be made until the debt has been repaid, no matter how high the debt level may be.

Like a DMP, your IVA payments will be set at a rate you can afford. The amount will be reviewed at least once a year, although should you have a change of circumstances, you can ask to change the terms.

There are many different aspects to both DMPs and IVAs, and it’s important to fully understand them when looking to switch between the two debt solutions.

Thinking about switching from a DMP to an IVA?

If you’re wondering whether an IVA could be a better option than your current Debt Management Plan, we’re here to help. Our expert advisers can explain the differences, check whether you’re eligible, and help you decide which debt solution best suits your circumstances.

Get free debt advice online or call 0800 316 1833 to speak to one of our experts. We’ll explain your options and help you make an informed decision.

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FAQs

What if I become seriously ill?

Please contact us as soon as possible. We know these conversations can feel difficult – but you’re not alone, and our dedicated Vulnerability Team is here to support you with care and practical guidance.

Your Insolvency Practitioner (IP) may speak to your creditors and request early completion of your IVA on compassionate grounds.

What happens if I come into money during my IVA?

If you receive a financial windfall – such as inheritance, compensation or lottery winnings – you’ll usually need to pay all of it into your IVA.

Because your creditors have agreed to write off part of your debt at the end of your IVA, any extra funds must be considered.

If the amount’s large, you may be able to offer an early Full and Final settlement.

If friends or family want to help with a lump sum, creditors may accept it as a settlement offer. It doesn’t have to cover everything you owe, but it must be fair and reasonable.

Can I settle my IVA early?

Yes – you can ask to offer a lump sum as a Full and Final settlement.

  • Your creditors will vote on the offer at a Variation Meeting.
  • Even if accepted, your IVA stays on your credit file for six years from the original start date.
  • It remains on the Insolvency Register for three months after completion or termination.

Early settlement can give flexibility, but you’ll still need to rebuild your credit after it completes.

Can I add debts to my IVA?
Because an IVA is a legally binding agreement, adding new debts can be difficult.

  • Forgotten debts: If a debt was missed at the start, it may still be possible to add it. Sometimes a second Creditors’ Meeting is required if the debt is significant.
  • New debts: If you’ve taken on new borrowing since your IVA began, contact us immediately. We’ll explain your options and what this means for your arrangement.
Can an IVA affect citizenship?
Your IVA will appear on the Insolvency Register, which may be visible during a citizenship assessment. It doesn’t automatically prevent approval – and in many cases, it reflects that you’re actively managing your debts responsibly.

Read more FAQs →

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