For info I completed my IVA in Sept last year - I have 2 defaults against my name dated 2006 but I have managed to open a new bank account with an overdraft (although I didn't opt for hte overdraft) - I have also opened a new phone contract without any difficulty.

Ah right ok. Thanks guys, you have been very helpful. I am going to put him in touch with one of the experts to discuss in detaill.

Thanks again

Hmm ok , sounds positive at the moment.

What is DMP?

A good friend of mine is in dire straights. His wife has just left him. They have a big mortgage (£190) and have £40k negative equity. He also owes 10k personal loan, 4k in credit cards and overdraft. He is a contractor so is not in a permanent job. He wants to keep his house but can't afford the mo...

I have recently completed my IVA in Sept and have recieved my letter from my IP. My report from Experian states that I have 2 defaults (from my bank when I took out my IVA) but there is no record of my IVA. If I send my completion letter to them will this be enough? How will they be able to tie them...

Paranoia it is then! [:I] thanks a lot

I have been contacted by Darren Gallagher of the IVA media panel - working for PR121 in London for information on my 'story'. Whilst it looks as though it is a genuine company (from the website) I have just been asked for my home address in exchange for a £5 gift voucher which I found a bit strange....

Robbiecat... Could I suggest you buy a new cat!? (just kidding)

I am waiting for my IVA completion letter so this is very relevant for me.... and to be honest I've racked my brains and been through endless lovely options - but I have settled on saving and possibly a new pair of shoes... a far cry from my spending habits 5 years ago I can tell you!

Thanks folks. I think to be honest although I know I would never take the risk again I don't want a credit card. I don't need credit to live happily and comfortably so I think I will just press on with getting some savings together and await a clean record. Nearly there.....

Well exactly... I am fearful of credit cards to be honest, hate the things but eventually I do want to buy a house and not be stung by ridiculous rates. I'm sure there must be an easier way.

Hi - I've very recently paid off my IVA and am waiting for my completion letter (due any day). I've just spoken to my IP who has advised me to take out a high interest credit card and spend £5 a month on it each month and pay it straight back in order to get my credit rating back up. I actually have...

This is exactly the type of letter I wrote when I did the very same thing a few months ago. Your IP will put a proper offer together anyway on your behalf. Be aware that it may take some weeks for them to actually put it to the creditors (depending on their work load) and some weeks after that until...

Thanks for the supportive messages. I am with Varden Nuttall in Bury, Manchester. After I rang them to find out what was happening I actually had a call from my credit controller (who I have never spoken to before) chasing the cheque the next day!! Flaming cheek. I will be making a formal complaint ...

I've just spoken to my IP, apparently there was a majority vote so it's just a question of getting a cheque off to them. ..... aaannnd relax.... phew