Key points
- Lasts 60 days (standard Breathing Space)
- Most interest, fees and charges are frozen
- Most enforcement action is paused
- You apply through a debt adviser
- You can usually use it once every 12 months
What does Breathing Space do?
During a standard Breathing Space, most creditors must stop contacting you about the debts included, can't add interest, fees or charges, and can't take enforcement action such as sending bailiffs or starting court action. It gives you time to get proper debt advice and decide what to do next.
Mental health crisis Breathing Space
If you are receiving mental health crisis treatment, you may be able to get a mental health crisis Breathing Space. It has stronger protections and lasts for as long as your crisis treatment, plus 30 days. An approved mental health professional must confirm your treatment.
How do I apply?
You can't apply directly. A debt adviser, either an FCA-authorised debt advice provider or a local authority, decides whether Breathing Space is right for you and applies on your behalf. Free debt advice services can do this at no cost.
What you still need to pay
Breathing Space doesn't cancel your debts. You still need to keep up with ongoing payments such as rent, mortgage, council tax and utility bills during the 60 days, where you can. You also need to keep engaging with your debt adviser.
Live in Scotland?
Breathing Space only covers England and Wales. Scotland has its own moratorium scheme, available through a money adviser.
Frequently asked questions
Does Breathing Space affect my credit file?
Breathing Space itself isn't shown on your credit file, but your creditors can still report missed payments.
How long does Breathing Space last?
A standard Breathing Space lasts 60 days. A mental health crisis Breathing Space lasts as long as your crisis treatment plus 30 days.
Is Breathing Space free?
Yes. There is no charge for the scheme itself.
Free debt advice is available
You can get free, impartial debt advice from not-for-profit organisations through MoneyHelper's debt advice locator.
Sources and further reading
This guide is general information, not advice, and was correct when last updated. Rules and limits can change. Speak to a regulated adviser about your own situation.