Gambling

[Somersetlalala]

I haven't had a bet in 3 months. I've been told creditors want 6 months without a bet to consider agreeing to an Iva. If I proceed with the Iva now in 6-8 weeks approximately I would have a creditors meeting so it will have been 4.5 months without a bet. What would happen to my application? Do I wait or go ahead? Should my partner proceed without me (she hasn't gambled) feeling pretty low right now. So many questions...

[Niobe]

Hello,

Speak to your prospective IP and run this by them. I think you may be ok but of course I'm only guessing.

Well done for stopping the gambling.

[Shining]

Well done and it's worth talking through with an IP, try 2 or 3 from www.iva.com

Your partner could proceed alone but if you have joint debts maybe wait. Are you in a DMP at the minute?

[Somersetlalala]

Not in anything at the moment but we've sent off the initial I&E info to Melanie G. Just had a chat to a chap from the company who said after we've given them a bit more info the IP will decide if it's worth progressing at this stage.

Anyone else have gambling debts and had successful applications? Be nice to hear a few experiences.

[Niobe]

You have chosen an excellent company so do keep in touch with them. Her company will sort you out.

[Somersetlalala]

I have self-excluded myself from the betting websites I used to go on and have no desire to ever bet again. I am ashamed of myself and feel so so guilty. I just want this whole mess sorted asap and it kills me that we may have to wait longer. I know it's only a few weeks longer but it's so frustrating

[Niobe]

Mel's company will sort you out - have faith in them.

[KAYKAY]

Melanie is an expert in this field, without doubt. Her company is so professional. Please be guided by them. I know it is frustrating having to wait especially after you have made such a bold decision, but believe me it will be worth it and Melanie and her team will hold your hand every step of the way. Your self-exclusion from gambling sites is a very wise move. We have all had to learn to be patient in one way or another when entering an IVA, but just keep looking forward and not back and your patience will be rewarded. Good luck on your journey.

[Somersetlalala]

I guess I'm worried as I've never defaulted on any payments (apart from going over my overdraft limit) until now as we took the decision to withhold payments and build up a contingency fund for when IVA started. Now that process may be delayed I'm worrying about the phone calls and letters. I've never had to deal with them before.

[KAYKAY]

Some of Melanie's team post on here quite regularly. I am sure they will put your mind at rest and point you in the right direction at every possible turn. It is normal to be worried, it also shows that you care. Be proud of yourself for recognising that you need some help and support, and be proud that you are tackling your problems head on. There is always (well nearly always) someone on the forum day or night. Don't ever be afraid of using the forum for support and the occasional rant when you want to get something off your chest through the difficult times.

[Niobe]

If you have any online accounts then go into them and take out any contact numbers on there.

You can refuse to answer security questions so they cannot continue with the calls. Screen calls so you know who is calling.

You could change your number.

As to letters, just forward them on to the IP.

[Somersetlalala]

Am I able to forward letters to the IP even though an IVA hasn't actually been set up?

[dipsy]

Hi, I myself tried to gamble my way out of debt and as you say yourself, I am not proud of it and feel utterly stupid. I told my company about it and they said that it would be fine and my IVA has just been approved. I don't know whether I was just lucky but I did as you have done and self excluded from the sites that I used. I think this is the best way forward as you know how easy it is to start again. Melanie will be able to advise you and they may ask you to have counselling for your problem but not necessarily.

[Somersetlalala]

How many months had you not bet before your IVA was accepted dipsy?

[Broke of London]

I remember seeing a couple of posters who have got in ivas after gambling. It is easy to relapse so you made a wise move self-excluding yourself from the sites. Congrats on your three months free of it!

You'll be in safe hands with Mel!

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