Advice: What you should know about an IVA

3 Nov, 2011 | General | admin

Many people think bankruptcy is about the worst thing that could possibly happen to them. And yet, just as many carelessly apply for one without checking all the options at their disposal. Over the past years, IVAs have become exceedingly popular to the point that they today account for a higher percentage of overall individual insolvencies than the more familiar bankruptcy procedure. Is it right for you, too? Have a look at the following four pieces of essential advice to find out.

IVAs are a great alternative to bankruptcy

First off, we have to repeat ourselves: An IVA really does make for a fantastic alternative to a traditional bankruptcy. It is not quite as harsh, requires less paperwork and is, generally speaking, less damaging for your reputation. The psychological benefit of not having to explain yourself for being ‘bankrupt’ alone is well worth the time to investigate whether an IVA might make for a good choice.

IVAs are no panacea

As great as they may be, IVAs are certainly no cure-all nor easy bail- out. Just as with an individual insolvency, by applying for an IVA, you’re acknowledging that you’re unable to meet all of your payments as originally scheduled. With some banks, this will reduce your credit- worthiness similar to the way a bankruptcy would. And although it will eventually make you debt-free again (for the debts contained within your IVA), it does restrict your financial headway while it is in effect. So when you consider applying for an IVA, always be aware that it is a serious matter.

IVAs are not for everyone

Precisely because of the many benefits of IVAs, there are a few conditions attached to them. Your overall debts need to be greater than £12,000, for example. You also need to have debts with two or more institutions to be able to reap the benefits of an IVA. And your disposable income needs to be over £150 per month. All in all, these terms and conditions delineate a framework for debtors to pay off a sizable part of their debts and for both sides to reap the benefits of not having to enter into bankruptcy procedures.

IVAs require expert advice

With these points in mind, an IVA should be handled by experts. The government has already recognised this by only allowing a specialised IVA practitioner to deal with the necessary paperwork for you. Ideally, however, you should begin working with professionals long before that. Speaking to a knowledgeable debt management expert will allow you to gauge the benefits of different alternatives, explain the process down to the smallest details and answer whatever questions you may have.

There are many companies offering advice on IVAs, but only few of them are truly trustworthy. Ensure that the company you choose is a member of DEMSA and has made a name for itself as a professional and reliable partner in terms of IVA advice.

Advice: What you should know about an IVA

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