Becoming bankrupt
Applying to become bankrupt
There are other options for dealing with your debts that do not restrict what you can do as much as bankruptcy does. Before you apply to become bankrupt, find out about other options for dealing with your debts.
How to apply
You can only apply online.
Your address will be publicly available if you’re made bankrupt. If this will put you at risk of violence, you’ll need to apply for a ‘person at risk of violence’ order before submitting your application.
It costs £680. If you’re struggling to pay the fee, a charity may be able to help. Find out where to get free debt advice.
The process to become bankrupt is different if you live in Scotland or live in Northern Ireland.
After you’ve applied
Someone who works for the Insolvency Service (called an ‘adjudicator’) will check if your application meets the requirements for bankruptcy.
They’ll see if any other money could be used to pay your debts instead, for example your pension or savings. If you have access to other money and it covers your debts, the adjudicator might refuse to make you bankrupt.
If the adjudicator decides you can be made bankrupt, they’ll accept your application and issue a bankruptcy order.
They’ll then pass your case on to an ‘official receiver’ who’ll deal with your bankruptcy.
Your name will be added to the Land Charges register - lenders can search this register if you apply for a mortgage.
If you’re the sole owner of a property, HM Land Registry will add an entry to the register it holds for your property. This might mean you cannot sell your property.
Find out what happens after you’ve become bankrupt.
How long it takes
You’ll get an email or letter from the adjudicator within 28 days of submitting your application confirming whether you’ve been made bankrupt. It can take longer if they need to ask you more questions.
If you’ve changed your gender or name
If you’ve changed your gender or name, you might have to include this on your bankruptcy application. The official receiver might need to tell other people your previous name if:
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they need to do that to protect or recover the things you own
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it will help people or organisations identify what you owe them