As a response to the unfolding coronavirus pandemic, and the subsequent negative impact this was having on the finances of both individuals and companies across Scotland, a series of emergency Acts were put in place to help mitigate the financial fallout.
Changes were made to the existing MAP and full administration sequestration process as part of the Coronavirus (Scotland) (No. 2) Act 2020 which, amongst other measures, reduced the application fees for both MAP and full administration bankruptcy, increased the debt threshold for MAP cases, and waived application fees for those in receipt of certain benefits. Taken together, these measures not only make the eligibility criteria less strict, but they also reduce costs to individuals looking to enter into an insolvency process.
Brought in as a temporary measure, these emergency provisions are due to expire at the end of March 2021; however, it has now been suggested that some of these adjustments to existing legislation should be made permanent as part of as the Bankruptcy (Miscellaneous Amendments) (Scotland) Regulations 2021.
The specific proposals which have been brought forward and recommended to be made permanent are:
Should these provisions pass through Parliament, the hope is that it will make both full administration bankruptcy and MAP bankruptcy more accessible to those requiring help with their personal financial position long after the Covid-19 pandemic has passed.
These measures are not as of yet permanent; however, they are working their way through Parliament and should approval be granted, the above-mentioned provisions will become permanent as of 29 March 2021.
Our Scottish based team can help advise you on your debt problems.
Our personalised debt report will help you better understand your financial position and see where your money is going.
Arrange a call with an expert advisor at a time to suit you.
We have five offices located across Scotland. Find your nearest one here.