We aim to make our website as accessible as possible. However if you use a screen reader and require debt advice you may find it easier to phone us instead. Our phone number is 0 8 0 0 1 3 8 1 1 1 1. Freephone (including all mobiles).
i This solution is only available in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

What is an IVA

Debts included and excluded in an individual voluntary arrangement (IVA)

An individual voluntary arrangement (IVA) is a legally binding agreement between you and your creditors to help you pay off your debt. Most of your debts will be included in an IVA and when the agreement ends, any remaining balances should be written off.

There’s no limit to the amount of debt included in an IVA, however certain debts cannot be included.

Is an IVA right for you?

dad pushing son on swing

Considering an IVA?

We're here to help. Free, online debt advice available now.

Get debt help

What debts does an IVA include?

When you enter into an IVA most of your debts will be included, including:

  • Catalogues
  • Personal loans
  • Overdrafts
  • Credit cards
  • Gas and electric arrears
  • Council tax arrears
  • Water arrears
  • Payday loans
  • Store cards
  • Income tax and national insurance arrears
  • Tax credit or benefit overpayments
  • Debts to family and friends
  • Any other outstanding bill, for example solicitor’s costs, invoices for building work and veterinary bills

What types of debt are excluded from an IVA?

Debts that usually aren’t included in an IVA include:
 

  • Mortgages and secured loans
  • Hire purchase agreements
  • Court fines
  • TV Licence arrears
  • Student loans
  • Child support arrears

Can joint debts be included in my IVA?

A joint debt is a debt that has your name and the name of the other person you entered into it with on the agreement.

A joint debt can be included in an IVA, however the other person named on the debt will still be responsible for making payments towards it.

If you have some of the debt written off, the other person will still be asked to pay the remaining money back.

If you have joint debts, and are thinking about entering into an IVA, you should contact us for advice first. We can let you know how it’ll affect you and the other person named on the debts.

What happens to my debt during an IVA?

Before an IVA is agreed, a proposal will be put to your creditors. If they agree to the IVA you’ll make monthly payments towards the IVA for 60 or 72 months, unless you have a lump sum IVA. If you have a lump sum IVA, you’ll make a one-off larger payment into it.

When your IVA has finished, you’ll be issued with a certificate of completion. At this point any balances outstanding on the debts included in your IVA will be written off.

Is an IVA right for me?

Get free, impartial debt advice online, so we can recommend the best solution for your situation.