Default notices started arriving - sanity check and next steps..

dailygeek

Hi

I stopped paying my non-priority debts 2-3 months ago following the advice on this page and have my stepchange DMP calculated but haven't engaged it yet.

I've recently had default notices saying I need to take action by early September from Tesco, Paypal and Halifax.  Still waiting to hear from MBNA, Updraft and Sainsburys Bank, though Updraft email and call a million times a week.

Just want to check, should I just continue on this path and not respond to the default notices, wait for them to actually default and then start the DMP, hoping the others default in the near future?

Or do I somehow manage the few that default in the interim and hope the others catch up?

I suppose I'm just a little unsure of the right point to start the DMP with StepChange for the best outcome.

I did this before, 20 years ago.  It turns out my undiagnosed ADHD and inability to not impulse purchase makes it difficult for me to manage credit beyond a certain point.  I feel now that I'm getting better now I'm medicated and understand myself better.  I'm not a foolish person, but this is something I've hated about myself for years, and I wish I was in a better position for my future as I worry I've really messed up opportunities for myself and my child, and that breaks my heart.  It feels pathetic to be in this position in middle-age.

Anyway, bit of a cathartic outpouring at the end there, but appreciate any genuine guidance and advice, thank you.

Rob5342

I'd wait and just start paying eaxh one as it defaults. Using Stepchange just complicates the whole process as fsr as I'm concerned, its much easier to just pay each one without having to fit into Stepchanges rigid way of doing things. 

Eloise1670

Hi I just wanted to reply to this as I have also been through this myself and had a debt management plan to change. 

I would go with their advice and follow that through if they’ve told you not to pay and you’ll get default and that is the way to go Also please don’t beat yourself up about this. 

I’ve had issues in the past with money and debts and also impulse buying which I’ve now got a group of in my 40s and I’ve now just started to get myself straight. I was kind of blacklisted for around six years after paying off the DMP and it’s taking me time to rebuild my credit.

I’m now trying to get on top of things, but don’t beat yourself up as life has been difficult for people recently. 

sourcrates

There is no rush to do anything, allow the debts to default, the collection process is long and tedious, and nothing tends to happen quickly, so relax, and be patient.

Is there any reason why you can`t self manage?

It`s much simpler, and you remain firmly in control of things.