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Debt Relief Order (DRO)

A low-cost insolvency option for people with low income, minimal assets, and qualifying debt levels. Strict criteria apply.

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What is a Debt Relief Order?

A Debt Relief Order (DRO) is a formal insolvency solution for people with low disposable income and limited assets. If approved, you get a 12-month moratorium period where included creditors cannot pursue payment. At the end, qualifying debts are usually written off.

DROs are available in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland through an approved intermediary. They are often described as a lower-cost alternative to bankruptcy for people who meet the criteria.

Typical DRO eligibility (summary)

DRO eligibility thresholds can change over time. A regulated provider will confirm current limits and whether you qualify.

  • You owe below the maximum unsecured debt limit for DROs
  • You have little or no surplus income after essential living costs
  • Your assets are below the permitted asset limits
  • You are not currently in another formal insolvency process
  • You have lived or done business in the UK recently (jurisdiction rules apply)

How a DRO works

1. Eligibility check

A debt adviser confirms whether you meet DRO criteria and gathers evidence.

2. Application submitted

An approved intermediary submits your DRO application to the Insolvency Service.

3. 12-month moratorium

Included creditors are generally prevented from enforcement while your DRO is active.

4. Circumstances monitored

If your financial situation improves significantly, your DRO may be reviewed.

5. Debts written off

If your DRO completes successfully, qualifying debts are usually written off at month 12.

DRO pros and cons

Potential benefits

  • Can write off qualifying debts in 12 months
  • Lower-cost formal solution
  • Stops most included creditor action

Key limitations

  • Strict debt, income, and asset limits
  • Listed on a public insolvency register
  • Credit file impact for 6 years
  • Cannot apply if criteria are not met

DRO FAQs

DRO debt limits are set by regulation and can change. A regulated adviser will confirm the current threshold and your eligibility.

Once approved, creditors included in the DRO are generally prevented from taking enforcement action during the moratorium period.

Yes, in some circumstances, such as inaccurate information or significant positive changes in finances during the moratorium.

Neither is universally better. DROs suit people with low income/assets. IVAs suit people able to make monthly payments over several years.

Check if you meet DRO criteria

DebtClearPlans is an introducer and lead generation service. We are not authorised to provide regulated debt advice ourselves. We connect you with FCA-authorised partners who can assess your full eligibility.

Your first call is free, confidential, and no-obligation. Debt solutions are not suitable for everyone.

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DebtClearPlans is a debt introducer/lead generation service and is not authorised to provide regulated debt advice. We introduce enquiries to FCA-authorised and regulated debt solution providers and/or insolvency practitioners. We may receive a fee for introductions made.

Debt solutions are not suitable for everyone and may have a significant impact on your credit file, ability to obtain credit, and in some cases your assets. Always read all documentation carefully. Free, impartial debt advice is also available from MoneyHelper, StepChange, National Debtline, and Citizens Advice.