Use the following guidelines in respect of other income

Use the following guidelines in respect of other income:

a) Self-employed individuals should provide proof to verify their drawings (by way of bank statements, financial statements, spreadsheet, or IRP5). If there has been deterioration in the business, resulting in reduced drawings by the owner, the reason/s for this downward trend is to be provided.

b) Properties being rented out seasonally (e.g. holiday flat and not sold to reduce debt) should not be included as fixed monthly income.

c) Maintenance received should be reflected. If the consumer is a single parent and the other parent is earning a regular income and the consumer is not receiving maintenance, the Debt Counsellor should refer the consumer to the Maintenance Court (normally no legal representation is required) for assistance to obtain monthly maintenance payment. Until a Court Order has been obtained no maintenance should be included in income (unless the parties agree to an interim monthly amount)

d) Fixed monthly rentals from properties should be included. It is recommended that 65% of gross rental amount as per lease agreement is used to cater for void periods and taxable portion.

e) Monthly subsidies should be included.

f) Interest from investments (except where the investment is to be realised to reduce the level of debt) should be included.

g) Interests in businesses (where regular income is received) should be included.

h) Any other regular source of monthly income should be included.