Debt Arrangement Scheme (DAS)

A Scottish debt solution that lets you repay debt in full over time through one affordable monthly payment, with legal protections once approved.

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What is DAS?

The Debt Arrangement Scheme (DAS) is a Scottish government-backed debt management framework. It allows eligible people to enter a Debt Payment Programme (DPP), paying unsecured debts in full at an affordable rate over time.

Unlike a Trust Deed, DAS is generally a full repayment solution rather than debt write-off. Once approved, creditors included in the programme must follow the DAS rules.

How DAS works

1. Budget assessment

An approved money adviser calculates what you can afford after essential living costs.

2. DPP proposal

Your adviser proposes a Debt Payment Programme to repay unsecured creditors over time.

3. DAS approval

If approved through the DAS process, legal protections and repayment terms begin.

4. One monthly payment

You make one regular payment which is distributed to creditors in line with the DPP.

5. Legal protections

Interest and charges are usually frozen, and most creditor enforcement is paused.

6. Debt repaid in full

When all payments are complete under the DPP, included debts are settled.

DAS advantages and disadvantages

Potential benefits

  • One affordable monthly payment
  • Interest and charges usually frozen
  • Legal protections once approved
  • No public insolvency route like bankruptcy

Things to consider

  • You normally repay debt in full
  • Programme length can be long
  • Credit file may be affected
  • Missed payments can risk DPP failure

DAS FAQs

Yes. DAS is a Scotland-specific debt scheme. Residents in other UK regions have different debt solution frameworks.

DAS is usually a full repayment plan. It is designed to repay qualifying debts in full over time.

Interest and charges on included debts are generally frozen once the DPP is approved.

DAS typically repays debt in full, while a Trust Deed may write off remaining qualifying debt after completion.

Get help choosing between DAS and other Scottish options

DebtClearPlans is an introducer and lead generation service. We connect you with approved Scottish debt advisers who can assess DAS, Trust Deed, and other routes.

Your first conversation is free, confidential, and no-obligation.

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A real person will call you to understand your situation and explain which options may apply. DebtClearPlans is not authorised to provide regulated debt advice and we do not hold client money.

Checking your options won’t affect your credit score. We’ll never share your details without your permission.

DebtClearPlans is a debt introducer/lead generation service and is not authorised to provide regulated debt advice. We introduce enquiries to FCA-authorised and regulated debt solution providers and/or insolvency practitioners. We may receive a fee for introductions made.

Debt solutions are not suitable for everyone and may have a significant impact on your credit file, ability to obtain credit, and in some cases your assets. Always read all documentation carefully. Free, impartial debt advice is also available from MoneyHelper, StepChange, National Debtline, and Citizens Advice.