Hi mondayblues.

It's pretty common for a trustee to verify such expenses through the provision of receipts.

In terms of taking out credit, I guess we'd just give you the same answer as when you asked before, though I appreciate your concern due to the contradictory information your trustee gave you.

Hi mondayblues,

When we consider a payment break or a reduction in payment because of an unexpected bill we normally look for evidence of this in the form of receipts, invoices etc and I would guess that this is pretty much standard practice across most if not all firms. I do think however that each case should be looked at individually when it comes to things like this as there could be a valid reason for being unable to supply receipts/evidence.

When you suggest a credit union loan, do you mean you would apply for a loan, keep this money as ÔÇ£emergency moneyÔÇØ and then begin paying this back to the credit union? Your Trustee could question how you can afford to borrow money and then pay this back.

Within your budget at the outset, was there provisions for things like clothing, sundry and emergency expenses etc?

In terms of your Trustee finding out, they could request a copy of your bank statements are your next annual review and this could show the loans funds being deposited in your account and then the payment per month repaying the loan. I don't think that taking out a loan of £400-£500 would cause significant problems or cause your Trust Deed to fail but this is only something which your Trustee can decide upon.

It's a difficult one for us to advise on because ultimately it comes down to your own Trustee's opinion.

Thanx for replying. It just seems that every month there is an emergency and budget doesn't allow for expenses such as moving to high school and associated costs to be met within timeframe of uniform suppliers leavers events visits school trips locker fee etc, then additionally car problems and washing machine broke about 3 or 4 times within a year. That's the problem buying second hand however can't afford £300-500 at the moment.
There was modest allowance for emergencies wrapped up in household expenses at outset prob 10-2peronth can't quite remember but doesn't even come close to the problems life throws at you while on a trust deed. Cant get receipt when buying second hand. So stressed about what I've got to pay out by end of term it really isn't funny. And there's nowhere to turn for help. Credit union seems only solution that won't involve unscrupulous lending.

The min they lend is 500 but it's kinda like an overdraft. U have it in reserve but don't pay for it unless u have drawn down the money. One part of me reckons this is sensible as don't need it all just need cash flow which is drained from emergency funds... Then I am worried sick about what will happen. But living like this is so miserable and stressful ... Bet it leads to heart attacks and strokes !!! Torn between trust deed company and funding necessaries for kids.

Hi mondayblues,

It sounds like you are finding things a bit of a struggle trying to run a household and support the Trust Deed payment.

The one thing with taking on further credit is that is can quickly escalate and lead someone back to the same position they were in when they considered a Trust Deed.

If you are finding things a real struggle have you asked to sit down and discuss your concerns with your relationship manager? Sometimes I think sitting down with someone can help to resolve issues like you are having. They could go over another income and expenditure and see it from your side and be a little bit more flexible. The last thing I think anyone wants is for someone to be struggling that much that they take on further debts whilst in a Trust Deed.

How long do you have left on your Trust Deed?

Thanx David. Although I don't think speaking to them would do any good from experience and just want to lie low till the end one year away. It is such a struggle to be honest. However got this far Few ups and downs along the way... This is maybe one of them but once get over this stumbling block I'll be okay for a while I am sure. Problem is things required in short space of time approaching and can't wait till payday end of May.....hence a small emergency pot would resolve the imminent problems.

Hi mondayblues,

Have you tried to reduce your bills in anyway? Changing energy suppliers, also if you have virgin or sky you can phone up and threaten to leave and you may a loyalty discount. If you are out of contract for a mobile phone you may be able to reduce this cost as well. It may be some small savings but all saving will help ease your budget.

Also, changing the places you do your food shop can help save some money which can be put towards other things that will help you to get by.

Sorry if I'm suggesting something which you have already considered. Try to stay positive and focus on the remaining payments and becoming debt free at the end.

I feel for you, Mondayblues, and it is totally understandable that you are asking the question again - presumably hoping that one of us will say don't worry about it, it will be fine to just go ahead and borrow the money.

The problem is, it is only your Trustee's opinion that really matters here. If they feel strongly that you shouldn't be doing this, then it would be risky to go ahead and do it anyway.

Have you asked them for their suggestions as to how you can overcome this issue?

Screenshots of emails text messages Facebook posts etc can warrant evidence of buying second hand if either of these were options you used to buy it and a letter from your friend surely should be acceptable enough proof

You could do a written invoice for your friend who fixed your car and sign it. Again you could do that for your washing machine and get the sellar to sign it.

Your Trustee just wants proof that these items have been fixed and you have paid over the money. I don't think they are interested in the ins and outs of who fixed what as we all look for the cheapest way to fix something when it breaks when in a TD.

I don't know if the Credit Union would lend you money - do they not do a credit check?

Also, can you not do another I&E form if you are struggling each month? They may reduce your payments to help you out if you can show that you struggling?