Debt Management Plan in Singapore: How it works

In today’s fast-paced world, many individuals and businesses face financial challenges and find themselves burdened with debt. Fortunately, there are solutions available to help manage and alleviate debt-related issues. There are 6 debt settlement options and 1 of the solution is the Debt Management Plan (DMP). In this guide, we will delve into the intricacies of DMPs in Singapore, exploring the process, benefits, and considerations involved.

What is a Debt Management Plan?

A Debt Management Plan, commonly known as a DMP, is a formal agreement between a borrower and their creditors to restructure and manage outstanding debts. The primary goal of a DMP is to provide relief to individuals and businesses facing unmanageable debt burdens. By working with a reputable credit counseling agency, such as Credit Counseling Singapore (CCS), borrowers can negotiate with their creditors to develop a repayment plan that is affordable and sustainable.

How Does a Debt Management Plan Work?

The process of establishing a DMP involves several key steps. First, individuals or businesses must meet certain eligibility criteria set by the credit counseling agency. These criteria typically include having unsecured debts above a certain threshold (e.g., $10,000 or more) and owing money to multiple creditors.

Once eligibility is established, borrowers undergo a comprehensive credit counseling session with a trained counselor. During this session, the counselor assesses the borrower’s financial situation, including income, expenses, and outstanding debts. Based on this assessment, the counselor works with the borrower to develop a realistic budget and repayment plan.

The credit counseling agency then contacts the creditors on behalf of the borrower to propose the DMP. If the creditors agree to the terms, the borrower will make a single monthly payment to the agency, which will distribute the funds to the creditors according to the agreed-upon plan.

Benefits of a Debt Management Plan

A Debt Management Plan offers several benefits to borrowers:

1. Simplified Repayment: With a DMP, borrowers make a single monthly payment to the credit counseling agency, which then disburses the funds to creditors. This simplifies the repayment process and eliminates the need to manage multiple payments.
2. Reduced Interest Rates: In many cases, creditors may agree to reduce the interest rates on outstanding debts as part of the DMP. This can significantly lower the overall amount owed and accelerate the repayment process.
3. Extended Repayment Terms: Creditors may also agree to extend the repayment terms, allowing borrowers to pay off their debts over a longer period. This can result in more manageable monthly payments.
4. Creditor Cooperation: By participating in a DMP, borrowers demonstrate their commitment to repaying their debts. This can foster positive relationships with creditors, who may be more willing to work with borrowers to find mutually beneficial solutions.

The Role of Credit Counseling Singapore (CCS)

Credit Counseling Singapore (CCS) is a reputable credit counseling agency that facilitates Debt Management Plans in Singapore. CCS works in collaboration with major consumer banks and credit card issuers under the guidance of The Association of Banks in Singapore (ABS). The agency’s primary objective is to assist individuals and businesses in repaying their unsecured loans, such as credit card balances, personal loans, and credit lines.

Assessing Payment Capacity

One of the key responsibilities of CCS is to assess the payment capacity of borrowers during the credit counseling session. By evaluating income, expenses, and financial obligations, the agency determines the borrower’s ability to repay their debts within a reasonable timeframe.

Once the payment capacity is established, CCS works with borrowers to develop a tailored DMP Proposal and Repayment Schedule. This proposal outlines the affordable monthly instalments, reduced interest rates, and repayment period required to fully settle the outstanding debts.

Negotiating with Creditors

CCS acts as an intermediary between borrowers and creditors, negotiating on behalf of the borrowers to secure favorable terms for the DMP. The agency presents the DMP Proposal to creditors and seeks their approval. The decision to accept or reject the proposal lies solely with the individual creditors.

Once the creditors approve the DMP Proposal, borrowers begin making payments according to the Repayment Schedule outlined in the proposal. It is important to note that the approval of DMPs and the specific terms and conditions are determined by each individual creditor.

Support and Guidance

Throughout the duration of the DMP, CCS provides ongoing support and guidance to borrowers. The agency’s Debt Servicing and Support (DSS) team offers assistance, workshops, and talks aimed at improving financial knowledge and maintaining mental and emotional well-being.

Additionally, CCS conducts an Onboarding Session to provide borrowers with a comprehensive briefing on what to expect during the DMP, how to set up payments, and tips on managing finances effectively. Upon successful completion of the DMP, borrowers are invited to attend a DMP Graduates Workshop focused on rebuilding creditworthiness.

Reporting to Credit Bureau Singapore

While on a Debt Management Plan, borrowers’ existing credit cards and unsecured facilities are typically cancelled. This information is reported to Credit Bureau Singapore (CBS), reflecting the borrower’s participation in the DMP. It is important to note that credit reports are only accessible to the individuals themselves and financial institutions for the purpose of assessing creditworthiness.

The presence of a DMP on a credit report may impact future credit applications, as creditors may consider it as an indication of financial challenges. However, once borrowers successfully complete the DMP and inform CCS, the agency reports the completion status to CBS. This results in the removal of the DMP status from the credit report, allowing borrowers to gradually rebuild their creditworthiness.

General Criteria for a Debt Management Plan

To be eligible for a Debt Management Plan in Singapore, borrowers must meet certain general criteria. These criteria include:

1. Minimum Debt Threshold: Borrowers should have unsecured debts amounting to $10,000 or more.
2. Multiple Creditors: Borrowers must owe money to two or more creditors.
3. Payment Capacity: The borrower’s payment capacity should be sufficient to repay all unsecured debts fully within a reasonable time.

It is important to note that meeting the general criteria does not guarantee approval for a DMP. The decision to accept or reject a DMP proposal lies solely with the individual creditors. Read up on the difference between the DMP and 2 other common debt settlement schemes at Debt Management plan vs Debt consolidation plan vs Debt repayment Scheme.

Conclusion

Debt Management Plans offer a viable solution for individuals and businesses burdened by unmanageable debt. By working with a reputable credit counseling agency like Credit Counseling Singapore (CCS), borrowers can negotiate affordable repayment plans, reduce interest rates, and simplify the repayment process. While participating in a DMP may have short-term implications on creditworthiness, successfully completing the plan allows borrowers to rebuild their financial standing over time. If you are facing overwhelming debt, consider exploring the option of a Debt Management Plan to regain control of your finances and pave the way towards a debt-free future.

At Tembusu Financial Services, we are here to provide personalized and tailored financial solutions for your unique needs. Let us help you overcome your financial challenges and achieve your goals. To explore how we can support your financing needs, please reach out to us.