Hi & welcome to the forum,
Can't really add anything to what the other posters have said, with Melanie being a IP herself, has given you some excellent questions to ask.
Regarding the CCCS guidelines, the last time I looked at them, they were done in 2008 so very unrealistic for now. I would put down what u spend & try to remember all the little things not just the bills & food. If anything is to high the IP will point it out & explain why. An IVA is a long time, you don't want to be struggling from the moment it starts.
Just thinking on what plasticdaft has said, we normally direct new posters thinking of a IVA to look at
www.Iva.com which you can find all the reputable IPs/ IVA companies & customer reviews. Pick 2-3 that they like the look of & give them all a ring for some free & impartial advise.
Good luck for this evening & let us know how u get on.
Final IVA payment made in April 2013, never ever thought we could do it or get through it but we did! X
An IVA.co.uk Mentor is someone sharing from their experiences of dealing with debt
Lyns x