Minimal Asset Process (MAP)

What is a Minimal Asset Process (MAP)?

A Minimal Asset Process (MAP) is an alternative route to bankruptcy available for people in Scotland who have no or little assets and can’t afford repayments or can only afford to pay back a small amount each month.

A MAP allows you to pause debt payments for six months, subject to your eligibility. After this period, if your financial situation remains unchanged, your debts will be written off.

How does MAP work?

We’ll discuss the debt solutions available to you, and if we recommend MAP and you decide to go ahead, we’ll discuss the next steps in setting the MAP application process up.

To apply, you’ll need to provide details of your debts, income, and assets. Your application will then be submitted to the Accountant in Bankruptcy (AiB) for approval. For assistance with the application we can refer you to your local Citizen Advice Bureau (CAB) or Advice Direct Scotland.

Unlike some other solutions, MAP doesn’t require court involvement. Once approved, your debts will be frozen, and you won’t need to make repayments. The process typically lasts for six months, after which your debts will be written off, as long as your financial situation doesn’t change during that time.

If your financial situation improves before the MAP period ends, you may no longer qualify. In this case, your MAP could be revoked, and you’d become responsible for repaying your debts again, including any previously frozen interest and charges.

Protection from creditors

• Once your MAP is approved, creditors can’t take legal action to recover debts included.
• Interest and charges are guaranteed to be frozen.

No repayments required

• During the MAP period, you won’t need to make any debt payments, allowing you to focus on essential living expenses.

Debt write-off at completion

• After six months, if your financial situation hasn’t improved, your debts will be officially written off, and you’ll no longer be responsible for repaying them.

Am I eligible for MAP?

MAP could be an option for you if:

• You don’t have much spare money: This means you can’t afford to pay off your debts in another way.
• You owe between £1,500 and £25,000: This includes any debts you share with a partner or family member.
• Your car is worth less than £3,000: You can keep your car if it’s under this amount, but it’s important to check the implications of applying for MAP if you have a finance agreement.
• Your income is solely made up of benefits: Such as Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), etc.
• You don’t own a property: You can’t get a MAP if you have a house or a mortgage.
• You don’t have other assets over £2,000: This doesn’t include essential household items.
• You haven’t gone bankrupt in the last five years: If you have, you may not be able to get a MAP.

Note: MAP is only available if you live in Scotland. If you live in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland, you may be able to apply for a Debt Relief Order (DRO) instead.

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What are the pros and cons of MAP?

Benefits of MAP

• Legal Protection: Creditors can’t contact you, add interest, or take legal action for debts included in your MAP.
• Debt Write-Off: Your remaining debts will be cleared after six months.
• Affordable Process: The application fee is £50, lower than standard bankruptcy fees. If you receive state benefits, the fee may be waived.
• Simple Process: No court appearances are required. Once approved, your debts are frozen.

Things to consider

• If your income increases, your MAP might be cancelled, and you’d have to repay your debts again.
• Your credit score will be affected for six years from the date of approval, which may make borrowing more difficult in the future.
• While in MAP, you can’t borrow over £2,000 without telling the lender.
• There are spending limits – if your budget’s too high, you may not qualify

What debts can be included in MAP?

MAP covers most unsecured debts, including:

• Rent arrears
• Utility bills
• Council tax arrears
• Credit cards
• Overdrafts
• Personal loans

Debts that can’t be included in MAP include:

• Student loans
• Court fines
• TV Licence arrears
• Child maintenance payments

Want to check if your debts qualify? Click here [Link] to see what debts can be included in a MAP application.

Why Choose Us?

• Over 100,000 people, including 1,299 from Scotland[1], received free[2], confidential debt advice last year

Our knowledgeable team is here to support you throughout the debt advice process, ensuring you find the best solution tailored to your needs.

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FAQs

Want to know more? Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions about MAP.

Can a MAP affect my credit rating?

Yes. A MAP stays on your credit file for six years after approval. This may make it harder to borrow or result in higher interest rates if you apply for credit in the future.

Do I have to deal with my creditors directly

No, once you enter a MAP, your debt management advisor usually handles communication with your creditors. This can take the pressure off you and reduce the stress of dealing with phone calls, letters, or debt collectors.

How will MAP affect me?

It depends on your situation. Your bank may close your account, making it harder to open a new one. Some jobs don’t allow MAP, so check your contract or speak to HR if you’re unsure. If you’re renting, your landlord might not renew your tenancy or could ask you to leave.

[1] By PayPlan from Jan 2024 – Dec 2024

[2] Certain debt solutions that could be an option for you may incur a fee, such as a Trust Deed