We aim to make our website as accessible as possible. However if you use a screen reader and require debt advice you may find it easier to phone us instead. Our phone number is 0 8 0 0 1 3 8 1 1 1 1. Freephone (including all mobiles).
family on couch

Minimal asset process (MAP) bankruptcy

MAP bankruptcy is a way to write off debts you cannot afford. We can set up and manage your MAP for free. MAP is a form of insolvency and can offer you a fresh start.

  Scotland only

MAP bankruptcy can give you a fresh start. It writes off debts that you cannot repay within a reasonable time. 

People who have low income and not many assets may benefit from MAP.

It is cheaper and simpler than sequestration (or full administration bankruptcy).

You can only apply for MAP through an approved organisation like us. We will help you set up your MAP for free.

Benefits of MAP

    • You do not need to appear in court
    • Your MAP will usually end after six months. After this, all included eligible debts will have been written off
    • Your creditors cannot chase you for payment once your MAP is approved
    • Creditors cannot add more interest and charges, or take court action
    • Most unsecured and priority debts are included. There are exceptions which includes TV license arrears, court fines, student loans, and fraudulent debts

Risks of MAP

  • Your credit file will be affected for six years
  • Your bank can close or freeze your accounts. You may only be able to get a basic bank account
  • Your job may be impacted
  • If you rent, your landlord may choose to evict you or not renew your tenancy agreement
  • Some debts are not included. Like student loans and court fines
  • If you are self-employed, you may find it harder to trade and get credit for goods and services
Speech bubbles

Sarah on Feefo says:

"Really helpful and understanding without being patronising."

"They’re there to explain the facts but never advise what you should do. You take control of your life. A life line for many!"

Get help like Sarah
exclamation point in a circle - alert icon

MAP bankruptcy is only available if you live in Scotland. A debt relief order (DRO) is a similar solution available in England, Wales or Northern Ireland. But it has different benefits, risks and fees.

How to apply for MAP

one icon

Find out whether MAP is the right debt solution for you. Use our online debt advice tool or speak to one of our expert advisors

one icon

If MAP is the best way to deal with your debts, we will ask you to send details of your income and debts, and give you the support you need

one icon

The Accountant in Bankruptcy (AiB) oversees all bankruptcies in Scotland. There is a fee, but you may not have to pay this due to your financial situation. Your advisor will discuss this with you when you are ready to submit your application

We do not charge any set up or advice fees.

Questions our clients ask about MAP

You should get free, expert debt advice before making a decision. We can give you advice on a range of debt solutions, including those only available in Scotland.

You will need to meet the following criteria:

  • You live in Scotland or have lived in Scotland in the last year
  • You are on a low income. This can be defined in two ways:
  •  Your income is made up of income-related benefits such as jobseekers allowance (JSA), or
  •  The amount of money you earn covers your essential living costs but you have nothing left over
  • Your debts are less than £25,000
  • Your car is worth £3,000 or less
  • Your other assets are worth less than £2,000 in total, with no single item worth more than £1,000
  • You are not a homeowner or own land
  • You have not been bankrupt in the last five years. Or had a MAP bankruptcy in the last ten years
  • You must not have £1000 or more in savings across all your bank accounts

The easiest way to find out if MAP is your best option is by using our free online debt advice tool.

To apply for MAP you may need to pay a fee to the AiB.

They accept instalments, but the full amount needs to be paid before your application is submitted. You must let us know when you have paid.

You may not have to pay the fee due to your financial situation. An advisor will speak to you about this when your application is ready to submit.

You also need to get advice from an approved organisation like us. You cannot apply without doing this.

We can help you work out if MAP is right for you.

If it is, we will ask you for details of your income, spending and debts. We will provide all the support you need.

Your details will be added to a public register called the Register of Insolvencies (ROI) for five years.

It normally lasts for six months.

After six months, your debts are usually written off.

If your circumstances change or you do not co-operate, it can be longer.

You must tell a lender you are bankrupt if you apply to borrow more than £2000 either by yourself or with someone else.

This lasts until six months after your bankruptcy ends.

It depends on your situation, for example:

  • Your bank can close your account. You may find it difficult to open another
  • Your job could be affected. Check your contract or speak to HR to find out if you are at risk
  • If you rent, your landlord may evict you or decide against renewing your tenancy agreement
  • If you are self-employed, bankruptcy may make it harder to trade. Especially if you rely on credit to pay for stock or services

Debt happens. We deal with it.

We have helped millions of people since 1993.

Find out how.

"Thank God for StepChange."

"Always really helpful, understanding and efficient. Without fail I feel better for talking to StepChange."

Harriet, Feefo Review