Guides
Credit cards after an IVA, DRO, DMP or Trust Deed
How builder cards work, what card providers look at, and how to reduce the chance of a decline, with a guide for each solution.
Free to use, no obligation. The plan itself won't affect your credit score. It is not advice, and acceptance is never guaranteed.
Written and reviewed by the AfterMy team · Last reviewed October 2026
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Can you get a credit card after a debt solution?
You can apply. Some card providers consider people who have completed an IVA, finished a DMP, had their DRO end or been discharged from a Trust Deed. Each sets its own criteria, and acceptance is never guaranteed.
Builder cards are made for people rebuilding their credit, usually with a low limit.
What is a credit-builder card?
A card made for rebuilding: a small limit, used lightly and paid off in full each month. That builds the record of on-time payments lenders look at.
- Use it lightly: a small amount on the card each month is enough.
- Pay in full, on time: a direct debit for the full balance means no payment is missed.
- One application at a time: space them out so hard searches don't add up.
How do you reduce the chance of a decline?
Apply only where you're likely to be accepted. A full application leaves a hard search, and collecting hard searches can set you back.
After a DRO
1 guideFinished your debt solution? Your Comeback Plan maps your dates and shows options from our panel you may be able to apply for.
Start your Comeback PlanAfter a Trust Deed
1 guideQuestions
Frequently asked questions
Will a credit card help rebuild my credit?
Used lightly and paid off in full each month, it adds a record of on-time payments to your file, which is what lenders look at.
What credit limit will I get?
Builder cards usually start with a low limit. Using it well can lead to increases.
Can I get a credit card while I'm still in my solution?
Borrowing during an arrangement has rules attached, so the focus while it's running is getting ready. The guides for your solution explain what applies.
Ready when you are
Your Comeback Plan maps your dates and shows options from our panel you may be able to apply for.
Start your Comeback PlanFree to use, no obligation. The plan itself won't affect your credit score.