Step 3 Choose your debt solution – Debt solutions at a glance 3 Debt relief order (DRO) You apply for a DRO with the help of a money adviser who is an approved intermediary. Formal solution They make the online application for you. The DRO stops any creditors included in the order from taking further action against you. What debts are Most debts are included, but DROs do not included? include the following. • Student loans • Magistrates’ court fines • Budgeting loans • Crisis loans • Maintenance arrears Is there a minimum or You can owe £20,000 or less. Only debts that can be maximum debt amount? included in a DRO count towards this amount. How long will it last? Your debts will be written off after one year. Is there a fee? Yes. There is a £90 fee to pay. Some things to consider To apply for a DRO, you can: • have up to £50 per month available to pay your debts; • own assets worth up to £1,000; and • own a car worth less than £1,000. You cannot have a DRO if you own your home. You do not make any payments to the debts included in your DRO. You can make a fresh start after one year. If your circumstances improve, the DRO may be cancelled. See our Debt relief Contact us if you want to apply for a DRO. orders (DROs) fact Debts built up through fraud could still be recovered after sheet. your DRO has ended. Page 75