What is MAP bankruptcy?
Minimal Asset Process (MAP) bankruptcy is a way to write off your unsecured debts if you have a low income and have few assets. It’s shorter and cheaper than sequestration bankruptcy and you won’t need to go to court.
MAP is only available for Scottish residents. If you live in England or Wales, a Debt Relief Order (DRO) is a similar solution.
It only lasts six months and during MAP, your creditors can’t chase you for payments. And after these six months, your MAP would usually end. Your MAP would then legally write most unsecured debts off.
Understanding MAP
There’s a lot to think about before applying for MAP. Our ‘How does MAP bankruptcy work?’ section will take you through the basics. You can read about the process of applying for MAP and what will happen if your MAP bankruptcy goes ahead.
As MAP is aimed at those who are really struggling to repay their debts or have low income, therefore there are strict conditions for getting one. You can’t own a property, you must owe unsecured creditors between £1,500 and £17,000, have assets worth £2,000 or less (you are, however, allowed a car worth up to £3,000) and you must be on a low income. Low income means your income is either made up solely of benefits or the amount you earn doesn’t cover your essential living costs.
We’ll take you through the criteria in our ‘How do I qualify for MAP bankruptcy?’ section. You’ll be able to see if MAP is an option for you or not.
Even if MAP is an option for you, your personal situation might mean it’s not necessarily the best way to clear your debts. Our ‘Is MAP bankruptcy right for me?’ section will you give you some potential drawbacks of MAP, though they might not necessarily apply to you.
If you’ve got some questions about MAP, don’t worry. Check out the ‘MAP FAQs’ section for answers to some of the most commonly asked.
Still not sure what the best way is to get in control of your unsecured debts? Our expert debt advisors can talk you through the possible options. You can give us a call on 0800 048 1764 to get in touch. If you need a call back, one of our advisors will be in touch at a time that’s right for you.
We don’t offer a MAP service but if we believe that it may be the most suitable solution for you, we will signpost you to the free advice sector for more information.
Continue to the next section How does MAP bankruptcy work?
