I live in Scotland, and I was unemployed when I went BR in March, so it was a very simplified process and I did not have to deal with courts as I had no assets over a £1000. But I was told if I start work and earn over £220 gross a week I would be liable to pay some money for up to 2 years after discharge. It is likely I might just slip over this threshold with the jobs I am applying for at the moment, which is just admin work and is likely to be more like £259 gross per week. Could you give me any indication how much they would take a month and how in depth would they investigate a persons outgoings like rent, utilities other household bills. The thing is I am staying in very cheap accommodation in the hope that I can save some money when I start earning. I have no assets or money at the moment till I gain full time employment. But am worried that if I go over this threshold of £220 I will pay a severe penalty. I really want my discharge at the end of the first year and do not want to pay out for 2 years after that. I do hope you can help with my question. If you require further information please do ask. thanks very much
The process in Scotland is slightly different than that of England or Wales so I am not too sure whether anyone will be able to offer advice on your issue.
Within England and Wales the ORs have access to your bank account statements so can see how much money is being taken for rent and utility bills if these are paid by direct debit. Normally the only time the OR will query the amount for bills, travelling costs, etc. if they are deemed excessive and then they would ask for copies of the bills or receipts.
I wouldn't recommend trying to hide any additional income or trying to tell the OR that your outgoings are higher than they are as the OR is acting on behalf of the court and this could land you in a lot of trouble. If the OR thinks you are being dishonest they will investigate your financial background extremely carefully and go through all of your bank/credit statements for the past few years.
I live in Scotland and unemployed when I went BR
Posted - 19 June 2010 : 19:28:59
