Debt help… DMP?

GreenFrogMum

I have, yes. Although there’s not much in it yet as this is my first full month since I stopped making the payments.

sourcrates

Most rentals only do a landlord check, which just confirms identity etc, not a full credit check.

If every renter was subject to a full credit check, there would be an awful lot of empty rentals.

GreenFrogMum

when I took over the tenancy here on my own, the letting agent wanted proof that I earned 30x the monthly rent, which I definitely don’t. We got around it by my ex husband going guarantor for me, which he’s willing to do again, but I’m worried it will be harder with a new place because my landlord was just ticking boxes for her insurance - she wanted me to be able to stay here and was willing to find ways around any red tape we came up against. A new landlord won’t be so understanding.

RAS

Your landlord has more issues than you think with the new rules. Even if she is selling.

With respect to your rental situation going forward, landlords can only see CCJs and insolvencies on public registers. Some don't even check.

You'll need evidence of your salary but can satisfy that for some with the guarantor.

They can't see your credit records.

They can ask for bank records. If you are smart now, demonstrating that you are living within your means and saving some money each month, the situation might even be to your advantage. It's a bit harder if it's clear from your statements you are paying a debt charity etc every month. 3 months clear statements should suffice.

GreenFrogMum

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81988164#Comment_81988164

I’m not actually in a DMP as yet. I’ve stoped paying my debts, but I’m holding off on anything else until they default. Currently, I don’t have any defaults, CCJs or insolvencies. And I’m following a strict budget. So maybe I’ll get lucky. Thank you for replying x

ManyWays

A guarantor solves this problem if you do have it.

Diaz09

Quick question - have you done a proper budget breakdown yet to see exactly where every penny goes? I see you mentioned benefits but not whether you've checked you're getting everything you're entitled to.

Before jumping into a DMP, it's worth doing a benefit check and seeing if there's any room to squeeze the budget first. Sometimes there are small wins hiding that can make a real difference to what you can offer creditors.

GreenFrogMum

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81989024#Comment_81989024

I used the Stepchange website to work out my budget (but haven’t actually started a DMP with them). I’m actually very good at budgeting in terms of knowing where my money goes. I always have been. I have spreadsheets for everything… the problem is spending, which I’m doing my best to reduce now. Rather than just working out a budget, I’m actually sticking to it.

I’m pretty sure I’m getting everything I’m entitled to in terms of benefits.