Debt Arrangement Scheme (DAS) — Scotland's Debt Solution
The Debt Arrangement Scheme (DAS) is a Scottish government debt management tool that lets you repay your debts in full over time, with all interest and charges frozen, and legal protection from creditor action. It's administered by the Accountant in Bankruptcy (AiB) and is unique to Scotland. Unlike bankruptcy or sequestration, you repay everything you owe — but at a pace you can afford.
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What is DAS and who is it for?
DAS is designed for people in Scotland who:
- ✓Have debts they want to repay but need more time and lower payments
- ✓Have a steady income (enough to make regular payments, even if small)
- ✓Want to avoid sequestration (bankruptcy) and its consequences
- ✓Need protection from creditors while they repay their debts
How DAS works — the Debt Payment Programme
Under DAS, you enter a Debt Payment Programme (DPP). This is a formal agreement that:
- ✓Freezes all interest and charges on included debts from the date the DPP is approved
- ✓Sets a single monthly payment based on what you can afford after essential living costs
- ✓Distributes that payment between all your creditors proportionally
- ✓Provides legal protection — creditors cannot pursue enforcement while the DPP is in force
- ✓Creditors can object to a DPP, but the AiB can approve it without their consent if the programme is fair
The Moratorium on Diligence — immediate protection
While setting up a DPP, you can get a 6-week Moratorium on Diligence — Scotland's version of Breathing Space. This gives immediate protection while you work with an adviser:
- ✓Creditors cannot take enforcement action (diligence) during the moratorium
- ✓Sheriff court proceedings are paused
- ✓Bank arrestments and wage arrestments cannot proceed
- ✓You apply to the AiB — it takes effect immediately
- ✓You can extend the moratorium if needed while your DPP application is being processed
How to apply for DAS
What happens if you can't keep up payments?
- ✓If you miss payments, creditors may object and the DPP could be revoked
- ✓Contact your money adviser immediately if you're struggling — payments can be varied (reduced temporarily or permanently)
- ✓If the DPP is revoked, creditors can restart enforcement action
- ✓You may need to consider sequestration (bankruptcy) if the DPP breaks down
- ✓Don't wait — early contact with your adviser gives the most options
Get advice about your specific situation
Ash is a free UK guidance assistant. Ask about your rights, get step-by-step guidance, and generate a formal letter if you need one.
Talk to Ash — it's freeNo sign-up · No account · Works for England, Scotland, Wales & Northern Ireland