Quick overview
A Scottish Trust Deed is a formal debt solution that can allow part of your unsecured debt to be written off at the end if you complete the arrangement. A DAS Debt Payment Programme is a structured repayment plan where you usually repay what you owe in full over a longer period, without additional interest and charges being applied once approved.
Main difference
- Trust Deed: Usually repay an affordable amount for a fixed period, with possible remaining unsecured debt written off if successfully completed.
- DAS: Usually repay your debts in full through one affordable monthly payment over as long as needed.
Trust Deed vs DAS at a glance
| Feature | Trust Deed | DAS |
|---|---|---|
| Type of solution | Formal insolvency-style debt solution | Formal debt repayment programme |
| Repay debts in full? | Not always | Usually yes |
| Monthly payment | Based on affordability | Based on affordability |
| Length | Often around 4 years (can vary) | Can be much longer depending on debt level |
| Assets reviewed? | Yes, especially home equity and valuable assets | Usually less asset-focused, but still relevant |
| Debt write-off potential | Possible on successful completion | Generally no — debts are repaid in full |
| Credit impact | Significant | Can still affect credit profile |
When a Trust Deed may be better
- Your debt is too high to repay in full within a realistic timeframe
- You have stable disposable income but not enough to clear everything
- You want a defined end point rather than a very long repayment term
- You understand the potential impact on assets and credit
When DAS may be better
- You can repay what you owe in full if given time
- You want to avoid an insolvency-style solution if possible
- You are worried about property equity issues
- You can manage a longer repayment period sustainably
What about homeowners?
Homeowners often need to compare these options carefully. A Trust Deed can raise questions around equity in your property, whereas DAS may sometimes be considered where protecting home equity is a major concern and full repayment is still realistic over time.
What about the payment amount?
Both solutions usually aim for an affordable payment based on your income and essential living costs. The difference is not always the monthly figure — it is often the total outcome, the timeframe, and the impact on assets.
Bottom line
If you can realistically repay in full over time, DAS may be worth serious consideration. If you cannot, a Trust Deed may offer a more practical route with a clearer end point. The right answer depends on your full budget, debt total, and asset position.