It's not about poverty at least it shouldn't be.
Our problem began right in the beginning.
When you go into an IVA, you are asked to write down everything that you spend, essentials, right down to the last penny. We didn't know just how accurate this had to be, and with some things like pets, we gave a 'best guess estimate', which was so wrong. If you do your income and expen in great detail, then you should be ok!
The problem we've had it for eg, we said our pets cost approx £20 p/m, they don't they cost £90, which is a huge difference. petrol, i underestimated big time. I have a 14yr son who doesn't live with me so evey 6 wks I drive a300 mile round trip to collect him. this is about £120 just for the journeys not inc the fuel we use in between for work etc. again a short fall. The idea is you put a little away each month for car maint' and incidentals, but in practise this doesn't happen.
Sorry this is short, I have to go out, but I will pop back later and maybe elaborate bit more.
It isn't all bad an IVA, honest the better of two evils I say!!!