Debt Write-Off

A debt write-off is where your creditors agree that you no longer need to repay the remaining balance of your debts.

A debt write-off may be an option in certain circumstances, and it’s something we can help you explore.

How does debt write-off work?

Debt write-off is a process where your creditors agree to cancel the remaining balance of your debts in special circumstances. Some of these scenarios can include medical write-off (if illness has made managing your debts difficult) or debts that have been built up as a result of economic abuse.

Initial assessment

• We’ll review your financial and personal situation to work out if a debt write-off is a viable option to explore.

Referral to our specialist team

• If we believe it’s a possibility, we’ll refer you to our expert team for further support.

Gathering your documents

• We may ask you to provide documents like:
• A detailed budget (we’ll assist with this)
• A letter of authority (so we can speak to your creditors on your behalf)
• Medical records (if applicable)

Contacting your creditors

• Our team will contact your creditors, explaining your circumstances and requesting the debt write-off on your behalf.

The final outcome

• If your request’s approved, your creditors will confirm the decision and may update your credit file to show the debt’s been cleared.
• If it’s rejected, we’ll speak with your creditors to understand why the decision was made and what other information could be provided for them to reconsider this. If they’re still rejecting the request, we’ll get to work exploring alternative debt solutions for you.

Am I eligible for a debt write-off?

A debt write-off may be an option for you in certain circumstances. Here are some examples of when it could be considered:

• Medical write-off: If an illness or medical condition has made it difficult to manage your debts.
• Debts from economic abuse: If your debts were built up due to economic abuse
• Inability to repay debts: If your financial situation means you are unable to pay back your debts due to a significant reason, such as a serious mental health issue.

We can help you explore whether a debt write-off is a suitable option for your circumstances and guide you through the process.

What are the pros and cons of a debt write-off?

Benefits of debt write-off

• Debt relief: You’re no longer responsible for the remaining balance.
• Focus on essential expenses: With the debts written off, you can redirect your income toward necessary expenses and start to rebuild your finances.
• Credit file update: Creditors may mark the debt as cleared or partially settled/satisfied, although this isn’t guaranteed.
• No more payments: Once approved, you don’t have to make any further payments toward the written-off debt.

Things to consider

• Your credit file may show that debts were written off, which can lower your credit score.
• Creditors may reject the request for a write-off, meaning you’ll need to explore alternative solutions.
• Some creditors may hesitate to offer you credit after seeing a history of debt write-offs, however a Notice of Correction can be added to your report to provide creditors with some context.
• You may need to provide detailed personal, medical, or financial records.
• Creditors can take time to review your circumstances and make a decision.

What debts can be included in a debt write-off?

A debt write-off may apply to unsecured and non-priority debts, such as:

• Credit card debt
• Personal loans
• Overdrafts
• Store card debts
• Payday loans

You won’t be able to include secured debts (like mortgages) or priority debts (like rent arrears or child maintenance). These debts will need to be paid directly and we’ll help you manage them in your budget.

Why Choose Us?

• 100,000+ people received free, confidential debt advice last year
• In 2024, we helped to write off over £4m worth of debt overall.

Our expert team is here to guide you through the debt write-off process, helping you work out if it’s the right solution for your circumstances and supporting you every step of the way.

Don’t just take our word for it

Read real reviews and discover how we’ve helped others achieve a debt-free life through debt write-offs.

Check out reviews →

FAQs

Want to learn more? We’ve answered some of the most common questions about debt write-off here.

How long does the debt write-off process take?

In 2024, on average, it took creditors nine weeks to respond to our request for a debt write-off. It may take longer in some cases, depending on how quickly your creditors respond and the complexity of your case.

What if my creditors refuse the write-off?

If your creditors reject the request, don’t worry. We’ll first speak with your creditors to understand why the decision was made and what other information could be provided for them to reconsider. Then, if they are still rejecting the request, we’ll work with you to explore other debt solutions.

Will my credit score recover?

Any defaults or missed payments will be removed six years from the date they were applied. We’ll ask your creditors to add a note on your credit file to make it clear that the debt has been written off, but it’s their decision whether they apply this.

Do I need to pay anything for the service?

No, our service is completely free, however if your creditors don’t agree to the debt write-off, we may recommend other debt solutions that may incur a fee (these will be discussed if necessary).