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How it works: from first call to fresh start

Talking about debt is hard. So we've made the process as simple, private and pressure-free as possible.

1

Get in touch — private & confidential

Call 0161 820 1298 or fill in our short online form. You'll speak to a real, friendly advisor — not a call centre script. Nothing you tell us is shared without your permission, and checking your options won't affect your credit score.

2

Explore your options — without judgement

We'll ask about your council tax arrears, any other debts, your income and outgoings. Then we'll explain every option that fits — from council tax discounts and payment plans to formal solutions like an IVA or DRO — including the pros, cons and costs of each.

3

Take action — no obligation

If you decide to go ahead, we handle the hard part: preparing paperwork, contacting the council and creditors, and working to stop bailiff and enforcement action. If you decide not to proceed, that's completely fine too.

What happens next

If you choose an IVA

We prepare your proposal

A licensed insolvency practitioner prepares an IVA proposal based on what you can genuinely afford each month, and puts it to your creditors — including the council — for a vote.

Creditors vote

If creditors representing 75% of the debt value that votes approve the proposal, the IVA becomes legally binding on all of them — including any who voted against it.

One monthly payment

You make a single affordable payment each month, typically for five years. Interest and charges on included debts are frozen, and enforcement for included debts stops.

Debt written off

When your IVA completes, any remaining qualifying debt — including council tax arrears — is legally written off, and you get a fresh start.

IVA costs (typically £3,650 in total) are charged for preparing your proposal and administering the arrangement, recovered only on approval from the payments you make. An IVA affects your credit rating for six years from its start date. May not be suitable in all circumstances.

FAQs

Questions about the process

How long does the first call take?
Usually 15–30 minutes. You don't need paperwork to hand for an initial chat — just a rough idea of what you owe and to whom. If you'd like a full assessment, having recent bills and a note of your income helps.
Do I have to commit to anything?
No. The initial conversation is free and no-obligation. We'll explain your options and you decide — in your own time — whether to take any of them.
How quickly can enforcement be stopped?
It depends on the stage you're at, but we act fast. If bailiffs are actively pursuing you, tell us straight away — in many cases contact and enforcement can be paused while a solution is arranged, for example through Breathing Space or an agreed payment arrangement.
What if I don't qualify for an IVA?
We'll tell you honestly, and where you are not suitable for an IVA we may refer you to one of our trusted partners who specialise in alternative solutions — so you're never left without a way forward.

Worried about council tax arrears or bailiffs?

Reaching out is the hardest step — and the most important one. Speak to a friendly, experienced advisor today. 100% confidential, no judgement, no obligation.

0161 820 1298 Check if you qualify online