March 04, 2025

IVA Vs Debt Consolidation: Which Option Is Right For You?

Looking to make it easier to manage your debt but not sure which option is right for you? Read on for our quick guide to IVAs vs. debt consolidation

Should I Go Bankrupt or Choose an IVA?

Unsure whether bankruptcy or an IVA is right for you? Learn the key differences, pros and cons, and which option may suit your financial situation

What Is an N244 Form | How to Fill in N244 Form

Find out what an N244 form is, when it’s used, and how it can help you challenge or change a court order, including stopping enforcement action

Can I Get a Credit Card if I’ve Had an IVA

Wondering if you can get a credit card after an IVA? Learn how an IVA affects your credit score, what your options are, and how to rebuild your credit.

Can a new job or promotion affect your IVA agreement?

Getting an increase or a promotion is good news for most people. It usually means you can afford a few extra luxuries or pay off your debts more easily.

Should you trust IVA advice from Facebook groups or forums?

Getting IVA advice from Facebook or forums? Learn the risks, what to watch out for, and where to find trusted, regulated IVA guidance.

Is a single monthly payment the right move for your debts?

Thinking about one monthly payment for all your debts? Learn the pros, cons, and whether it’s the right solution for you.

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Credit Rating

An Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA) is a formal agreement with creditors to repay a portion of your debts over time, but it does have an impact on your credit score and it will be difficult to obtain further credit whilst on an IVA. Once an IVA is approved, it is recorded on your credit report and will typically remain there for six years from the date it starts.
However, it’s important to note this is the case for most debt solutions and your credit score will likely already have been affected by being in debt in the first place.
Once your IVA is complete you will get a fresh start to begin rebuilding your credit rating.

Fees

IVA costs are charged for the preparation of your proposal and the administration of the arrangement for the full term (usually 5 years) these costs are charged from the monthly contributions you make into the IVA and are not in addition. Costs will only be recovered on approval of your arrangement and once you commence making payments to it. The fees for preparation of the proposal to creditors and calling the meeting for creditors to vote on its approval are called nominees fees, the fees for running the arrangement once approved are called supervisors fees. There are also some expenses incurred in the running of the arrangement such as the registration fee and the statutory insurance that needs to be taken by law, these are called disbursements. For our arrangements, the total of all of these is £3,650 although this may be adjusted by creditors when they vote on whether to accept. No matter what the end total of costs come to, you can be rest assured that these will be taken from the monthly payment we agree with you.