Financial Resource

“Debt Management” ? Detailing about debt management plans how they work etc and why someone would want one

Debt Management

Debt management plans can provide some much needed breathing space when your debt problems are taking their toll on your day-to-day life.

What is a debt management plan?

A debt management plan involves negotiating reduced monthly payments with your creditors to allow you some time to sort out your finances. It will not reduce the overall amount you owe. And will help manage your overall income to help pay off debts.

Your creditors don’t have to agree to this but it shows that you’re taking control of your debt problem and trying to do something about it.

It’s advisable to let an experienced debt advisor negotiate with your creditors on your behalf, rather than doing it yourself.

Once an agreement is in place with your creditors for reduced monthly payments, these will be collected by your debt management company and distributed amongst them.

Do I qualify for a debt management plan?

The final decision on this will be based on your exact circumstances after talking to a professional debt advisor but as a general rule, you must meet the following conditions;

o You must have at least 3 separate creditors

* You should have at least £100 disposable income after paying secured debts e.g. your mortgage

* You must have at least £8,000 of unsecured debt e.g. credit/store cards, bank overdrafts

* You must be able to prove you’re having problems paying your monthly repayments when they are due

Will a debt management plan benefit me?

There are a number of important things to consider when you’re thinking of a debt management plan as a solution to your debt problems;

o It’s intended as a short to medium term debt solution

o It will take the immediate pressure off your situation

o Your interest and charges could be frozen by your creditors

o Debt management is kinder on your credit rating than some other debt solutions

There are disadvantages of debt management plans too, which include the fact that they are not legally binding, so your creditors can increase your payments again when they choose to.

Also, as your monthly payments are reduced, it will take you much longer to pay back the full amount you owe.

What types of people have debt management plans?

Typical circumstances that prompt people to apply for a debt management plan include;

o Being made redundant and having a reduced monthly income

o Reduced salary due to short term illness

o Credit card debt and not being able to afford all the repayments each month

If you’ve been constantly worrying about your debt and how to deal with it, a debt management plan could provide the solution.

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