IVA or DRO – which debt solution is right for you?

If you’re struggling with debt, choosing the right solution can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in. We can help you to understand your options and find the best path forward for your circumstances.

Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide comparing IVAs and DROs to help you make an informed choice.

What’s the difference between an IVA and a DRO?

• An Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA) is a formal agreement between you and your creditors to repay part of your debts in affordable monthly payments over a fixed term.
• A Debt Relief Order (DRO) is designed for people with low income and few assets. It allows debts to be written off after 12 months without making any payments.

How do they work?

IVA

• Your Insolvency Practitioner (IP) proposes a plan to your creditors.
• Of all the creditors who vote on your IVA Proposal, if at least 75% (by value) agree to your IVA Proposal, all your creditors have to accept the terms of the IVA Proposal, including any who voted to reject the proposal or didn’t vote at all.
• You make monthly payments, typically for five years.
• If your IVA isn’t approved, we’ll help you explore other options.

DRO

• You apply through an approved intermediary.
• There are no monthly payments
• The DRO lasts for 12 months and the debts are written off after that (if your situation hasn’t changed).
• You must keep the Insolvency Service updated throughout your DRO.

Eligibility

IVA

• Usually owe at least £7,000 to two or more creditors
• Can commit to a realistic monthly or have a lump sum available (in which case a Full and Final IVA could be an option)
• Have a steady income (whether that’s through employment, pension or benefits)

DRO

• Owe £50,000 or less
• £2,000 or less in assets
• Car value under £4,000
• Monthly disposable income £75 or less.
• Must not own a property
• Must not have had a DRO in the last six years.

For both an IVA and DRO, you also must live or have lived/worked in England, Wales or NI in the last three years

Impact on credit score

Both IVAs and DROs appear on your credit report for six years from the date they begin. This may affect your ability to borrow during and after the plan.

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Monthly payments

• IVA – you make one affordable monthly payment based on your budget
• DRO – you don’t make any payments during the 12-month term

How long do they last?

• IVA – typically five years (can extend to six years for homeowners with a certain level of equity)
• DRO – 12 months (called the “moratorium period”)

What happens at the end?

 Any remaining debt included in the arrangement is legally written off once your IVA or DRO is successfully completed.

Are there any fees?

• IVA – yes, fees are included in your monthly payments and you won’t be asked to pay anything upfront.
• DRO – no application or management fee is charged by the Insolvency Service.

Will my creditors still contact me?

Both solutions offer legal protection from creditor contact, interest and enforcement action. You may still receive automated letters from creditors early on, but this should stop once your plan is updated on their systems. They’re still legally obligated to send you certain communications such as annual statements, but they can’t chase you for payments or take legal action against for the debts included in the plan.

Do I need to stick to a budget?

Yes – both IVAs and DROs require you to follow a realistic budget:

• IVAs are reviewed annually to reflect changes in your circumstances.
• In a DRO, you’ll need to notify the Insolvency Service of any changes to your budget or circumstances during the 12 months it’s in place.

Can I keep my household items?

Yes – both solutions protect essential items like furniture, electronics and personal belongings. In a DRO, you mustn’t own non-essential assets worth more than £2,000 in total.

What about my home or mortgage?

• IVA – you can usually keep your home. If you have equity, your IVA may be extended by 12 months, depending on how much you have.
• DRO – you’re not eligible for a DRO if you own a property.  

How will it affect my tenancy?

• IVA – unlikely to affect current tenancy. You can prioritise rent in your budget.
• DRO – rent arrears are included. If this breaches your tenancy agreement, your landlord may take action, so it’s best to speak with them beforehand.

What happens to my car?

• IVA – you can usually keep your car, even on finance, as long as it’s essential and fits your budget.
• DRO – you can keep a car worth up to £4,000. Vehicles above that value may affect eligibility.

I’m self-employed – what should I know?

• IVA – you can continue trading. We’ll help build a business cashflow and protect tools, stock and equipment.
• DRO – you may be ineligible if you have high-value business assets. Your intermediary will assess this and if you’re a Director of a Limited Company, you’ll need court permission to proceed with your position.

Can I apply for credit?

• IVA – you need permission from your IP for new credit over £500.
• DRO – you must inform lenders of your DRO when applying for credit over £500.

Will my IVA or DRO be public?

Yes – both are listed on the Insolvency Register for the duration of the arrangement.

Need help deciding between an IVA or DRO?

We’re here to help you figure out which solution is right for you – with no pressure and no judgment. Our team of expert advisors will walk you through your options step-by-step.

Get debt help online or call us on 0800 316 1833 for a confidential conversation.

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