​Debt Relief Order
Debt relief orders are a legal process that can help people in England and Wales who have debt problems but cannot pay what they owe.
This guide will explain what a debt relief order is, how to get one, and what happens after you get one.
Secure & confidential
Rated 4.6 Excellent
National Debt Advice are not authorised to provide debt advice. Upon completion of our form your details will be passed to one of our authorised debt solution partners who will review your financial situation, explain the available options and recommend a debt solution which is suitable for you. We will be paid for introducing you or for the preparatory work we do, depending on your debt solution fees may be payable if ongoing services are provided
To find out more about managing your money and getting free debt advice, visit Money Helper, an independent service set up to help people manage their money. National Debt Advice is not associated with Money Helper.
What is a DRO?
A debt relief order (DRO) is a way to have your debts written off if you have a relatively low level of debt and have few assets.
Debt relief orders are not available if you live in Scotland.
A DRO freezes your debt repayments and interest for 12 months. If your financial situation hasn’t changed at the end of this period then all of the debts included will be written off.
Benefits and Risks
Benefits of a DRO:
A debt relief order can be a low-cost alternative to bankruptcy
You don’t pay anything towards your debts for 12 months. After that they'll be written off
Your creditors can't pursue you for your debts during the 12month period
Although a DRO is a formal debt solution, you don't need to appear in court
Risks of a DRO:
A DRO is only available if you owe less than £30,000 (£20,000 in Northern Ireland) and live in England, Wales or Northern Ireland
You'll need to pay the Insolvency Service a one-off, non-refundable fee of £90. If you qualify, our specialist team can help you apply
You can't apply if you're a homeowner
A DRO will appear on a public register and will affect your credit report negatively
How do I apply for a DRO?
01
The first step is to see if you qualify for a DRO, and if it’s your best option. Use our free online Calculator or call us and speak to one of our expert advisors.
02
If a DRO is the best solution to your debt problem, Our third parties will send you the necessary forms and help you apply. You'll need to complete these forms and return them.
03
Our third party advisors will help you prepare your application. Before they submit this there's a £90 fee that must be paid to the Insolvency Service in full or, if you live in England or Wales you can pay in instalments.
Other debt solutions you could qualify for:
A legal process that can provide relief for those struggling with debt.
A legally binding arrangement in Scotland. Read more...
Debt Management Plans can be the ideal solution. Read more...
Government Debt Respite Scheme.
​
Why choose National Debt Advice?
We can reduce your monthly payments!* Not only that but we're:
Have a 24/7 Live Chat Support
Have excellent reviews on Trustpilot
We give impartial and confidential advice