Tools
Bankruptcy eligibility checker
Bankruptcy in England and Wales is a formal insolvency procedure that can write off most unsecured debts after your affairs are dealt with by an Official Receiver or trustee. Most people are discharged after twelve months. This page outlines common considerations and includes an interactive helper — it cannot tell you whether you should enter bankruptcy.
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
Interactive checker
This tool runs in your browser. The page above already explains the criteria in HTML for search engines and accessibility.
Bankruptcy can be appropriate when debts are unmanageable
Bankruptcy in England and Wales can write off most unsecured debts after assets are dealt with. Home equity, employment and excluded debts need careful advice before applying.
Frequently asked questions
- Can anyone apply for bankruptcy?
- You can apply online if you meet the residency and debt criteria, but the consequences for assets, employment and credit need careful advice first.
- How long until discharge?
- Discharge usually occurs after twelve months if you co-operate, though some restrictions and credit-file effects last longer.
- Will I lose my home?
- Beneficial interest in a property may be realised. Outcomes depend on equity, joint ownership and trustee decisions.
- Is Scottish sequestration the same?
- No. Scotland uses sequestration and related AiB procedures under different law.
- Where can I get free advice?
- MoneyHelper, StepChange, National Debtline and Citizens Advice provide free regulated debt advice.
Primary source: The Insolvency Service (GOV.UK)