A statutory demand can be served for unsecured debts of £5,000 or more (for personal bankruptcy). You have 18 days to apply to set it aside, or 21 days to pay, agree security or make a repayment arrangement.
If you have a genuine dispute over the debt, an offset, or the debt is under £5,000, apply to set the demand aside. If the debt is real but you can't pay in full, offer a payment plan quickly — creditors often accept rather than pursue bankruptcy.
If you can't pay and can't set aside, get urgent help. Options may include an IVA, a DRO, or negotiating with the creditor. Free debt help can act quickly enough to matter.
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