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i This solution is only available in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

What is a DRO

What debts are excluded from a DRO?

A debt relief order (DRO) is a debt solution suitable for people living in England, Wales or Northern Ireland who aren’t home owners, are on a low income, have few assets and debts less than £20,000.

When you enter into a DRO, your debts are written off after 12 months, which is known as the ‘moratorium period’, if your financial situation hasn’t improved.

Some debts are excluded from a debt relief order. You must continue to pay any of the debts that aren’t included while you’re on a DRO.

Debts that are excluded from a DRO include:

  • All student loans (old and new styles)
  • Debts to the Child Maintenance Service
  • Social fund loans
  • Criminal fines (including debt incurred under the Proceeds of Crime Act)
  • Claims against you for damage or personal injury
  • TV Licence arrears

Debts arising from fraud, for example fraudulent benefit claims, won’t be written off at the end of the DRO. However, these will count towards the maximum debt limit.

Most other debts can be included in a DRO.


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Considering a DRO?

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Is a debt relief order right for you?

Our confidential, online debt advice service can recommend the best possible solution to your debt problem. 

If you don't qualify for a debt relief order, don’t worry, we can provide the debt help you need. It’s likely there’s a more suitable debt solution for your situation.