N
The Daily Insight Hub

Can you get credit while on a debt management plan?

Author

Sophia Koch

Updated on February 02, 2026

Can I get credit while I’m on a debt management plan? You shouldn’t take out any further credit while you’re trying to repay your existing debts through a DMP. Your budget should account for all the regular costs that are likely to crop up while on a DMP, so hopefully there’ll be no need to borrow money to cover these.

Will a paydown plan affect my credit rating?

As long as you keep up with your monthly payments, there won’t be any impact on your credit file.

Does a DMP affect getting a mortgage?

A DMP will have an impact on your credit file because you’re paying less to your debts than the amount stated in the agreements you signed with your lenders. It won’t be impossible to get a mortgage during your DMP, but it’ll be harder, and you may not get the best deal.

What happens if you cancel a debt management plan?

If you stop making monthly payments to your debt management plan, you will be removed from the program and your rates will shoot back up to their previous levels. Some plans will drop you after missing a single payment, while others may be generous enough to allow up to three missed payments.

Can you pay off a debt management plan early?

As debt management plans (DMP) are quite flexible, you may find that you’re able to pay off a DMP early by increasing monthly payments or paying a lump sum. The money left over each month after these expenses are accounted for will then become your DMP payment.

Can you be refused a debt management plan?

Can creditors refuse your DMP? Yes. Creditors are not obliged to accept a debt solution but they could accept a Debt Management Plan if they feel this is the best way for them to recover the money owed to them.

How does debt management plan affect credit score?

Making reduced payments through a debt management plan shows creditors that you’re dealing with your financial difficulties – a longer record of missed payments could have a more serious impact on your credit score . Some lenders or landlords may ask you to use a guarantor before agreeing to lend to you or allow you to rent one of their properties.

Why do you need a debt management plan?

Part of the reason you use a debt management plan (DMP) to overcome credit card debt over other solutions is that it minimizes credit damage. Unlike debt settlement or bankruptcy, using this type of program won’t create negative remarks in your credit report.

How does missed payments affect your credit score?

Any time you miss payments or pay less than the agreed minimum payment your credit rating can be affected. Making reduced payments through a debt management plan shows creditors that you’re dealing with your financial difficulties – a longer record of missed payments could have a more serious impact on your credit score.

How does a DMP affect your credit rating?

Some creditors may ask for a note to be put on your file to say that you have a DMP. This would reduce your chances of getting credit if you applied for it while on your DMP, as it would show you’ve had trouble keeping up with repayments.