Sequestration (Scotland): A Short Explainer for E&W Readers
#sequestration Scotland#Accountant in Bankruptcy#Protected Trust Deed
If you live in Scotland, the equivalent of bankruptcy is sequestration. The rules and process are different from bankruptcy in England & Wales.
How sequestration differs
- Fee: around £200 (varies, sometimes reduced for low-income applicants).
- Approving body: the Accountant in Bankruptcy (AIB), not the Insolvency Service.
- Discharge: usually 6 months (shorter than E&W bankruptcy).
- Trustee: a licensed insolvency practitioner administers your estate.
A Scottish alternative: the Protected Trust Deed
A Protected Trust Deed is similar to an IVA in England & Wales — a legally binding agreement to repay part of your debts over 4 years, with the balance written off.
Where to start
Debtrupt's filing tools do not support sequestration directly — you need a Scottish licensed insolvency practitioner or money adviser. For free help, contact Money Advice Scotland, National Debtline Scotland or your local Citizens Advice.
If you live in Northern Ireland, contact Debt NI for local advice.
Remember: Debtrupt provides practical guidance, not legal advice. For formal advice, contact a regulated solicitor or a free debt charity such as StepChange (0800 138 1111), National Debtline (0800 808 4000), or Citizens Advice.