If are behind on your student loan, and you plan to come home for Christmas, now is a good time to start to deal with this so that you are not at risk of having your holiday ruined by being arrested.
There are several ways to eliminate the threat of arrest. These include an agreed payment arrangement with the IRD, an accepted hardship application, payment of the arrears, or bankruptcy (if you are bankrupt you will need permission to leave New Zealand, which is not an issue for most people).
Do not think that making random payments will make you safe. Unless you can pay your arrears in full, or become bankrupt, it is essential that you have the IRD’s agreement. If you do not have it in writing do not assume that you are safe. If you have not paid but haven’t heard from the IRD, do not assume that you are safe. The only way to be safe is to pay, negotiate, or become bankrupt.
If you would like to discuss your options and obtain a solution we can help.