Bankruptcy

Bankruptcy

What is Bankruptcy?

Bankruptcy is a common form of insolvency that is legally binding to both you and your creditors. It aims to give you some relief from your debts once you have agreed to some (often quite severe) terms.

During this time you are protected from legal action by your creditors, and once your term is completed, any outstanding debt is written off. If you have excessive debts, this could be the correct option for you. However, entering bankruptcy is not something you should enter into lightly.

Please Note: Pompom only provide debt advice; we do not directly provide any financial solutions ourselves. We will talk you through your available options and if appropriate, we can offer you a no-obligation referral to a regulated debt solution provider, from whom we may receive a referral fee. Some debt solutions involve fees to you – these fees may differ based on the circumstances of your individual situation, but will always be explained to you by your chosen solution provider in writing before you decide to take up their service(s).

Pros of Bankruptcy

  • All included debts will be written off at the end of your agreed term.
  • Any legal action from your creditors must legally stop.

Cons of Bankruptcy

  • Your assets, including your house and car, could be sold in order to raise money to repay your creditors.
  • You can no longer act as a company director.
  • Future credit might be difficult to obtain.
  • Your credit rating will be negatively affected.

Bankruptcy FAQs

How long does bankruptcy last?

Generally, bankruptcy lasts for just 12 months. After this period, any included debts will be written off.

How much does bankruptcy cost?

Currently (March 2018) the cost of bankruptcy is £680. This breaks down as:

  • £130 application fee.
  • £550 Bankruptcy deposit.

This can be paid in smaller installments if you can’t afford it all in one go, however the bankruptcy can’t begin until payment is received in full.

Will bankruptcy affect my credit rating?

As you can imagine, yes it will affect your credit rating. However, if you are in the position that bankruptcy is a viable option, your credit rating isn’t likely to be very good in the first place. A bankruptcy stays on your credit rating for six years.

What happens to my assets in bankruptcy?

Once you have been declared bankrupt, it is extremely likely that any assets you may have, including your car and possibly your home, will have to be sold in order to pay back your creditors. Fortunately there are some things that aren’t included, such as equipment needed for work and many household items which are deemed to be needed by your family, these include clothing, bedding and furniture. If you have any children you will usually be given 12 months to find alternative accommodation.

 

Debt Help Centre