Every business faces financial difficulties at one point or another, no matter their size. Ignoring such difficulties and pretending they don't exist is not going to make the situation better. A strong strategy at the beginning stages of troubling times is the absolute best plan of action.

There are many options available to help you to get out of debt, differing with the extent of the difficulties. Limited companies may repay their bills via a CVA (Company Voluntary Arrangement). This is a formal agreement between the distraught company and its creditors allowing the creditors to be repaid an agreed upon amount over an agreed upon period of time. A meeting is to be held with all involved parties, and all proposals must be agreed upon by at least 75% of involved creditors.

Another option for a larger company is receivership, a process in which the charge holder (usually the lender) hires a “receiver” and sends him or her out to decide on the worth of the company in disarray. A receiver has the right and ability to sell part of the company to recoup the lost value to lender by serving as agent to the company unless or until the company liquidates its assets. A full company liquidation may typically be the last option to bring the business to an end if the damages are considered to be irreparable.

An IVA (Individual Voluntary Agreement) for a sole trader is a legally binding agreement which needs to be set up by a licensed Insolvency Practitioner. As a viable option to bankruptcy, an IVA offers affordable repayment programs, few filing restrictions, and is much more private than a formal bankruptcy since it is not reported in the local newspapers. It may even be possible to save your home and/or practicing certificates (if applicable).

Of course, bankruptcy is also an option, but one that comes with a stigma. The ability to avoid such insolvency proceedings is a matter that requires a great amount of thought and advice from professionals.

If you are determined to keep your business afloat and feel that you are just in need of a loan for bill consolidation or other purpose, there are programs available to assist you with this. Mortgages for both commercial and domestic use, proper asset management, and invoice discounting and/or factoring (generates working capital to release cash against monies you are owed) are all worthwhile choices that deserve your attention.

Be sure to weigh out all options before making your final decision. There are many experts in this field who can help you make the best decision for your particular situation, as they have set their business to assist you with yours.