www.iva.co.uk

I am in an IVA, I work part time (low income) and receive benefits too, I’m thinking of asking my partner to move in with me - in which case benefits entitlement will reduce dramatically, but should still receive child tax credit - however if partner does move in this will need to be claimed under a joint claim I believe. How would I put this forward to my IVA company as the joint benefit claim would be between both of us and not just for myself, and would this joint benefit claim mean my partner is now financially associated with me meaning his credit rating would be affected by my IVA? I’m so confused

You would have to do a fresh I&E as allowances will change as well as expenses. He will be expected to pay his fair share towards household expenses, which will, on the face of it, increase your disposable income and, therefore, your IVA payment. However, as you say, this will be offset by a possible reduction in income from benefits. In the end it might just balance out.

Benefits are not reported to credit agencies, so a link there should not show up.

You should have a chat with your IVA provider on a "What if" basis, so you can weigh up the pros and cons.