Hi Tracey and welcome to the forum, you don't have to go bankrupt you could start a debt management plan, and it is possible to try again for an IVA at a later date. If you have started your application for an IVA, you should be told your options by the company you have chosen. Most IP's wont suggest one if they don't think it is likely to get accepted.
As for bankruptcy, don't rule it out, it could be the perfect solution for yourself, there isn't the stigma attached like it used to be and many people do choose this route over an IVA.
I recommend that you seek some professional advice. Visit www.iva.com for a list of companies and reviews. Give one or two a ring for free and impartial advice about all the options open to you. You can then decide which is the right solution for your circumstances.
As to bankruptcy - you will not have the contents of your house taken and sold unless it is full of antiques![:)]
Sharing from experiences of dealing with debt
The greatness of a man is not in how much wealth he acquires, but in his integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively.
Bob Marley. http://kallis3.blogs.iva.co.uk
Owing
Barclays 19500
Barclaycard 2600
Hitachi 180
M & S Money 1600
I was told that Barclays would be my decider but yesterday at the creditors meeting only M & S Money voted with a yes, the others didnt bother voting, so got a 100% yes vote.
Well done Helen. Beans on Toast - spot on.
Tracey 369 don't worry as I am sure your chosen provider (if you have chosen one) would not put an IVA forward if this is not the appropriate advice. Otherwise Yyu need to have a chat with an IP and give him/her details of all your personal and financial circumstances and particulars.
Visit www.iva.com for reviews on firms and practitioners and select one or two to have a chat with. They will give you
the appropriate advice and it is free.
Good luck and let us know how you get on.
Regards, David Mond, Insolvency Practitioner for over 46 years. Personal Insolvency Practitioner of the year 2012, Personal Insolvency Practitioner of the year finalist 2013 & 2014 awarded by Insolvency & Rescue Magazine and 2015 finalist for Personal Insolvency Firm of the Year.