Debt Relief Order (DRO)
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Debt Relief Order (DRO) – A fresh start when debt feels overwhelming
If you’re on a low income, have limited assets, and can’t keep up with your debts, a Debt Relief Order (DRO) could be the right solution for you.
A DRO is a government-backed debt solution that freezes most of your debts for 12 months. At the end of that period, any remaining qualifying debts are usually written off, giving you a real chance to move forward without the constant pressure of creditors.
At RMS Financial, we provide clear, compassionate guidance to help you understand if a DRO is suitable for your situation and support you through the entire process.
What is a Debt Relief Order (DRO)?
Once approved:
- Creditors must stop contacting you about the debts included in the DRO.
- Interest and charges on those debts are frozen.
- You usually make no payments towards the included debts during the 12-month period.
- After 12 months (if your circumstances haven’t significantly improved), most of the debts are written off completely.
We’ve helped over Thousand people deal with their debt
Who is a DRO suitable for?
- Have total qualifying debts of £50,000 or less
- Have very little disposable income (usually less than £75 per month after essential bills)
- Own few assets (total value under £2,000, excluding certain items)
- Do not own a vehicle worth more than £4,000 (or adapted vehicles for disability)
- Live in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland
- living costs.
Key Benefits of a Debt Relief Order
- Debt write-off
Most unsecured debts are cleared after 12 months - Legal protection
Creditors and enforcement agents (bailiffs) must stop chasing you - No monthly repayments
To include debts during the DRO period - Lower cost
Much cheaper and simpler than bankruptcy or an IVA - Quick process
Applications can often be completed within weeks - Fresh start Helps you regain control and focus on rebuilding your life
Eligibility Criteria for a DRO
You may qualify for a DRO if all of the following apply:
- Your total qualifying debts are £50,000 or less
- You have £75 or less disposable income each month (after household essentials)
- Your non-essential assets total no more than £2,000
- Your vehicle (if any) is worth less than £4,000
- You have lived or worked in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland in the last 3 years
- You haven’t had a DRO in the last 6 years
Our team will carry out a free, no-obligation assessment to check your eligibility and explain all your options clearly.
How Does the DRO Process Work?
- Speak to us
We’ll listen to your situation and assess whether a DRO (or another solution) is right for you. - Prepare the application
We help you gather the required information and complete the paperwork accurately. - Official review
The application is submitted to the Insolvency Service. - Approval
If approved, the DRO takes effect and provides immediate protection. - 12-month period
You focus on stabilising your finances. - Discharge
At the end of 12 months, qualifying debts are written off (subject to your circumstances).
What debts can be included in a DRO?
Most unsecured debts can be included, such as:
- Credit cards
- Personal loans
- Store cards and catalogues
- Overdrafts
- Payday loans
- Utility arrears (in some cases)
- Council tax arrears (certain conditions apply)
Some debts like student loans, court fines, or child maintenance are usually not included.
Important Considerations
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