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What is the Minimal Asset Process (MAP)?

The Minimal Asset Process (MAP) is a simpler, lower-cost form of bankruptcy (sequestration) in Scotland, designed for people with a low income and few assets. If you have relatively little to your name and can’t realistically repay what you owe, it may be an option.

Last reviewed: 31 July 2026

Key takeaways

MAP is a low-cost route into bankruptcy for people with few assets and low income
Debts must generally be between £1,500 and £25,000
The application fee is £50 (waived for people on certain benefits)
You usually can’t own your home, and asset limits apply
You’re normally discharged after about six months
Figures can change — always confirm current thresholds with the Accountant in Bankruptcy (AiB)

What MAP is

MAP is one of two routes into sequestration (the Scottish term for bankruptcy). It’s meant for people whose circumstances are straightforward — a low income, few or no assets, and no realistic prospect of repaying their debts. Because it’s simpler than full administration bankruptcy, it costs less and completes more quickly.

Who qualifies for MAP?

Eligibility is based on set criteria. At the time of writing you generally need to:

Have total debts of at least £1,500 but no more than £25,000.
Not own your home, or any other land or property.
Have total assets worth no more than £2,000, with no single item worth more than £1,000 (a car you need for day-to-day life, worth up to around £3,000, is normally excluded).
Either have been receiving certain benefits for the last six months, or be assessed — using the Common Financial Tool — as having no surplus income to pay towards your debts.
Have taken advice from an approved money adviser.

These thresholds are set by legislation and can change, so always confirm the current figures with the Accountant in Bankruptcy (AiB) before relying on them.

What it costs and how long it lasts

The application fee is £50, and it’s waived if you receive certain state benefits. You’re normally discharged from bankruptcy after around six months, provided you co-operate with your trustee. Some restrictions — such as a limit on borrowing without disclosing your bankruptcy — continue for a period afterwards, and your credit rating is affected for years.

MAP vs full sequestration

MAP is a form of sequestration, but stripped back: a lower fee, quicker discharge, and no lengthy administration because there are few or no assets to deal with. Full (‘full administration’) sequestration applies where you have more assets, higher debts or surplus income. Our sequestration page explains bankruptcy in Scotland more broadly.

Is MAP right for you?

Bankruptcy of any kind is a serious step with a lasting effect on your credit rating, and it’s recorded on the public Register of Insolvencies. It isn’t the only option — a Trust Deed or DAS may suit you instead. Because MAP has strict criteria and real consequences, it’s important to take advice first. Free, impartial advice is available from MoneyHelper, Citizens Advice Scotland and the Scottish Government, and we’re happy to talk it through too.

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Frequently asked questions

How much debt do you need for a MAP?

Generally between £1,500 and £25,000. Outside that range MAP isn’t available and another route would apply. Always confirm the current limits with the Accountant in Bankruptcy.

How much does a MAP cost?

The application fee is £50, and it’s waived if you receive certain state benefits.

How long does a MAP last?

You’re usually discharged after around six months, as long as you co-operate with your trustee. Some restrictions continue afterwards, and it affects your credit rating for years.

Can I do a MAP if I own my home?

No — MAP is for people who don’t own their home or other property. If you’re a homeowner, a different solution such as a Trust Deed, DAS or full sequestration would be considered.