Could you benefit DAS?

IF YOU have some money left over after budgeting you could repay what you owe by accessing the Scottish Government’s Debt Arrangement Scheme (DAS).

Why get one?

In DAS, you pay back all of what you owe over a reasonable period of time. If approved, all interest, fees and charges are frozen, your home is safe as long as you keep up payments on it and comply with the conditions of your debt payment programme, and you are protected from creditors taking action against you.

Is it free?

Free, confidential and impartial advice is available from organisations like the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) or local authority advisers. Support from private sector money advisers is also available, although they may charge a fee for their services.

How do I get one?

First, meet with an approved money adviser who will assess your income and expenditure and see if you have enough disposable income to meet monthly DAS payments. If you are eligible, your money adviser will submit an application on your behalf and from that point you are immediately protected from legal action from your creditors and interest and charges are frozen.

Will it affect my credit rating

While you are in DAS, your details will be included in a public register and your access to additional credit may be restricted. In the longer term, DAS will be better for your credit rating as your creditors may recognise that you have paid back all of what you owe.