What is DAS (Debt Arrangement Scheme)?
The Debt Arrangement Scheme is a statutory debt management solution provided by the Scottish government, designed to help people with unmanageable unsecured debts repay what they owe at a pace they can manage. You may qualify for a DAS Debt Payment Programme (DPP) if you live in Scotland and have one or more unsecured debts that you are struggling to repay.
Under the Debt Arrangement Scheme, a Money Adviser will help you put together a DPP. This sets out how much you can afford to pay towards your unsecured debts each month, and how long it will take to repay your debts in full.
Your new monthly payments will be based on an amount you can afford, having taken into consideration all other essential costs (e.g. mortgage/rent payments, bills, food and so on).
How do I apply for a DPP?
To apply, you should speak to an approved Money Adviser to discuss whether a DPP is the right option for you. If they think it is, they will help you put together your budget and repayment proposal.
To apply, call us today on 0800 195 2911 or fill in the free call-back form and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.
What next?
Your Debt Payment Programme usually has to be approved by your lenders before it can go ahead. However, the Accountant in Bankruptcy (who is the DAS Administrator) can, in some circumstances, approve your case even if your lenders have declined your DPP. Once it has been accepted, a Payment Distributor will be appointed by your Money Adviser. It's their job to pass on the agreed monthly amounts to each of your lenders, out of the single monthly payment you make to them.
Your Debt Payment Programme will usually last until you have repaid your debts in full. However, this can often vary if you experience a change in your circumstances. It could also be brought to an end if an alternative option becomes more viable.
Will DAS protect me against action by my lenders?
Yes. Once it's approved, as long as you keep making payments on your Debt Payment Programme, you will be legally protected against any further action by your lenders. You'll only have to make the payments set out in your new terms, and your lenders won't be able to petition for your sequestration.
Will I be able to stay in my home?
Yes. The Debt Arrangement Scheme doesn't put you at risk of repossession, nor does it require you to release equity from your home like some other debt solutions.
Speak to an expert debt adviser on:0800 195 2911
Apply for help onlineAre there any disadvantages?
Like any debt solution, there are some downsides to the DAS, all of which will be made clear to you when you speak with your Money Adviser. Most notably, your credit rating will be affected because you won't be making the repayments you originally agreed - and your debts will take longer to repay. Furthermore, your details will be recorded on the DAS register, which will impact on your ability to obtain further credit.
But remember that DAS could still really help you if you're struggling. And the consequences of doing nothing when you're in financial difficulty will be more severe in the long run.