www.iva.co.uk

Hi everyone,

Sorry I haven,t posted for a while but nan died few weeks ago so faced some financial challenges.

However just wanted to share with you all that we got through it, we are now nearly 3 months into our IVA. This month was challenging as we had to find money for funeral flowers, shoes and trousers for my son and daughter to wear for the funeral and car service, MOT and Tax.
We had not built up much contingency so I was worried we wouldn,t manage, but we have, get paid again soon and just enough to tide us over although I have to say I will be glad when payday comes. running low on some cleaning and toiletry items but should get through.

Just wanted to share this for all those contemplating an IVA, so far it has been the best thing we ever did, I am happier, hubby is happier, kids are learning to wait for things they want and to budget thier pocket money ( I have now realised I gave in to them too easily). we are appreciating the smaller gifts in life, not going out tonight (can't afford it but managed to buy some steak and have a bottle of champagne my brother brought me for my birthday ) looking forward to a romantic night in.

Our IVA has given us a new beginning, hope it does the same for you.

Valentine hugs

J x

Billy, so sorry to hear your sad news.

What a positive post otherwise. So glad that your IVA is working for you, even though it has been a challenging time.

Anyone lurking, who is thinking of an IVA should take heart from your post.

Hi Billy & so sorry to hear about your nan.
We started our IVA in April 08 & 4 months in our car was due its service, mot & tax. We too had not managed to build up a contingency & just about scrapped through it. But it was hard - cars mot went horribly wrong & cost in total 670quid & had to borrow 250 of my dad which I still have not paid back. It really set us off on the wrong foot & made me feel awful - but we are now 10 months down the line of our IVA & it does get easier. I only ended up paying 6 months tax at the time to move it from when the car is due its service/mot. Just paid a years tax this month so it does not land when the car is next due its service/mot - huge relief & felt good for paying it & not with a c/card! I have 2 little ones 4 & 6, I too used to give in far to much & have learnt that giving them everything they want does not make them any happier. Now when I buy them treats or toys they appreciate it so much more & I feel better for paying it myself! I started Xmas in July last year & bought them something each month as being so little - santa still had to come. But I enjoyed it more paying for it myself & they still had a fantastic xmas & I will do the same again this year.
We have just had a hard month & ran out of everything - I had to crisps or biscuits in the final few days b4 payday & they had to have otast or cereal as a snack - but you get through it. IVA life is difficult especially with children - but it really teaches you about managing money & we are so much happier.
Good luck with your IVA - you have achevied so much already - well done x

Sorry my typing is terribly today my brain is running faster than my fingers x

Great to see that you both managed and that you are both learning and achieving the art of living within a budget.Good luck and long may your journey with your IVA be successful.
Once you are through it you'll see that you get your life back with new values and a great sense of achievment. Good luck to both of you.