The Major Differences Between Voluntary and Compulsory Bankruptcy
In business and personal finance, the terms ‘voluntary bankruptcy’ and ‘compulsory bankruptcy’ often surface when discussing insolvency and liquidation. Understanding the difference between the two is important for anyone experiencing financial difficulties in the UK. Voluntary bankruptcy occurs when an individual or a company, unable to pay debts as they fall due, chooses to declare bankruptcy themselves. This decision is typically driven by the realisation that the financial situation is unsustainable, and declaring bankruptcy offers the best path forward to manage debt and seek a fresh start. It provides a structured framework to address creditors’ claims and potentially discharge debts, allowing a more orderly resolution than waiting for creditor actions. In the UK, initiating voluntary bankruptcy involves presenting a petition to the court, which then assesses the debtor’s financial circumstances. If approved, a licensed Insolvency Practitioner (IP) is appointed to oversee the adm