If you haven't yet entered a PTD - couldn't you make a PPI complaint and use any ensuing redress to pay down some of the debt? If you had arrears with that particular bank, they would keep it anyway.

If it was applied while under a trust deed, it would go into the pot.

I think the delays you mentioned are where trustees have applied for / required the individual to apply for PPI refunds at the end of the trust deed period.

Hi Buz.

Talk to any trust deed provider you are considering using and ask them when they'll start the process of making PPI claims (if there are any to be made).

If they'll start this process early in your trust deed it's very likely that all the claims will be completed by the time you've completed your obligations. If they'll leave it towards the end of the term there is more potential for delay.

Most firms these days (including the four that post here) will discharge people once they've completed their obligations even if they themselves have to remain in office to deal with any outstanding PPI claims. There are exceptions though so, as always, choose your provider carefully.

If you know that you'd need to enter a trust deed even if you've been able to pay down part of your debts after making PPI claims I wouldn't suggest doing them (the claims) yourself first. You shouldn't favour particular creditors prior to a trust deed and you'll only be delaying reaching the point at which your debts are cleared.

It did occur to me in the dead of night (I have a baby who thinks sleep is optional) that I should have mentioned that PPI claims can take up to 18 months if they end up having to be referred to the ombudsman, so not appropriate if you are in immediate money troubles that require a trust deed imminently.

Thanks folks very helpful, just wanted advice on when to start the investigations for PPI. Im pretty sure I didnt take any (apart from one which I claimed on for 6 months! so dont think I can really object to that one)

My main concern was myself, or trustee, leaving it too late in the day with the result that closure of PTD was delayed past normal acceptable timescales which i want to avoid.

Cheers