What is the DRO debt limit?

The maximum total debt for a Debt Relief Order is £50,000. Asset and income thresholds also apply, and some debts cannot be included.

How long does a DRO last?

A DRO usually lasts twelve months. During that moratorium, creditors named in the order generally cannot take action. At the end, qualifying debts are discharged if you remain eligible.

How much does a DRO cost?

A DRO has a fixed government fee, which is much lower than bankruptcy or an IVA. Check GOV.UK for the current fee and payment options.

Can homeowners get a DRO?

Usually no, if you own a property with meaningful equity, because DRO asset limits are strict. Homeowners often need to consider other options instead.

You apply via an authorised debt adviser (approved intermediary). The Official Receiver then decides whether to make the order.

Does a DRO affect my credit file?

Yes. A DRO is recorded on your credit file and typically remains for six years from the date of the order.

Service Hub

What is a Debt Relief Order?

A Debt Relief Order (DRO) is a low-cost formal insolvency solution in England and Wales for people with relatively low debts, few assets and little surplus income. If you qualify, most listed debts are written off after a twelve-month moratorium. A DRO is applied for through an approved intermediary and administered by the Official Receiver.

In England and Wales, personal insolvency solutions include IVAs, bankruptcy and Debt Relief Orders. Different rules apply in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Reviewed: 1 March 2026 by Editorial Team

In brief

Clear definition of the solution and who administers it.
Eligibility depends on debts, assets, income and location in the UK.
Costs and timescales vary — verify against GOV.UK and a regulated adviser.
Credit-file impacts typically last up to six years for formal solutions.
Free debt advice should be considered before committing to any product.

Next steps

Frequently asked questions

What is the DRO debt limit?: The maximum total debt for a Debt Relief Order is £50,000. Asset and income thresholds also apply, and some debts cannot be included.
How long does a DRO last?: A DRO usually lasts twelve months. During that moratorium, creditors named in the order generally cannot take action. At the end, qualifying debts are discharged if you remain eligible.
How much does a DRO cost?: A DRO has a fixed government fee, which is much lower than bankruptcy or an IVA. Check GOV.UK for the current fee and payment options.
Can homeowners get a DRO?: Usually no, if you own a property with meaningful equity, because DRO asset limits are strict. Homeowners often need to consider other options instead.
Who approves a DRO?: You apply via an authorised debt adviser (approved intermediary). The Official Receiver then decides whether to make the order.
Does a DRO affect my credit file?: Yes. A DRO is recorded on your credit file and typically remains for six years from the date of the order.

Primary source: The Insolvency Service (GOV.UK)