Past Due Credit Solutions (PDCS) is a debt collection agency based in Clydebank, Glasgow. They collect for HMRC, DVLA, and major utility companies including British Gas, Sky, and BT. They’re legitimate and FCA-authorised, but they’re debt collectors — not bailiffs — and you have rights.
Who Are Past Due Credit Solutions?#
Past Due Credit Solutions Limited is a Scottish debt collection company incorporated on July 21, 2005. Here’s what you need to know about them:
Company Details:
- Company number: SC287794 (Scotland)
- Registered office: 1 Blair Court, North Avenue, Clydebank Business Park, Clydebank, Glasgow, G81 2LA
- FCA authorised: FRN 703411
- CSA member: No. 536 (Credit Services Association)
- Website: pastduecredit.co.uk
Ownership and Leadership:
- Private company owned by Phil Grant (Co-CEO) and Caroline Ann Grant (director, holding 25-50% of shares)
- Other directors include James Andrew Seroka (regulatory compliance), Joshua Anthony (secretary), Andrew Weir (operations director), and Paul le Poidevin (head of operations)
- Employs 300-500 staff at their Clydebank call centre
How They Operate:
PDCS is a contingency collector. This is important: they don’t buy your debt. They collect on commission for the original creditor. The creditor still owns your account. This means you can request they return your account to the original creditor if you prefer to deal with them directly.
Accreditations:
PDCS holds several ISO accreditations that are relevant to their government work:
- ISO 9001:2015 – Quality management
- ISO 27001:2013 – Information security (critical for handling HMRC and DVLA data)
- ISO 45001:2018 – Health and safety
- BS 18477 – Inclusive service provision for vulnerable customers
- Investors in People Gold – Staff training and retention
These accreditations confirm PDCS is a legitimate, regulated business. But that doesn’t mean they can do whatever they want. You have rights.
Why Is PDCS Contacting You?#
PDCS contacts people for three main reasons:
1. HMRC Tax Debt
PDCS is on the official HM Revenue and Customs debt collection panel. They’ve worked with HMRC since 2009 to collect unpaid taxes. This is their most significant work and what sets them apart from most other debt collectors.
2. DVLA Fines
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency uses PDCS to recover penalties for road tax violations, SORN breaches, and Continuous Insurance Enforcement fines.
3. Commercial Debt
PDCS collects for major utility and telecommunications companies:
- Energy: British Gas, Scottish Gas, OVO Energy, E.ON
- Water: Various regional water authorities
- Telecoms: Sky, BT, Three UK, Tesco Mobile
- Other utilities and consumer debts
They may also collect council tax arrears for some Scottish local authorities.
PDCS and HMRC — What You Need to Know#
This is where PDCS differs from most debt collectors. Their HMRC work has different rules than commercial debt collection.
Types of HMRC Debt PDCS Collects:
- Self-assessment tax (income tax and National Insurance for the self-employed)
- VAT arrears (Value Added Tax owed by businesses)
- PAYE and National Insurance (employee tax a company failed to remit)
- Tax credit overpayments (recovery of benefit payments you weren’t entitled to)
- Corporation tax (unpaid taxes on limited company profits)
Critical Facts About HMRC Debt:
There’s NO statute of limitations on HMRC tax debt. They can pursue you indefinitely. Unlike commercial debts that become statute-barred after 6 years in England and Wales (or prescribe after 5 years in Scotland), HMRC debt never expires.
HMRC does NOT accept settlement offers. You can’t negotiate to pay 50% or 70% like you might with a credit card company. HMRC is legally required to collect the full amount of tax due.
Time to Pay Arrangements:
PDCS can facilitate a Time to Pay (TTP) arrangement, but HMRC sets the parameters:
- Most TTPs run for 6-12 months
- Debts under £30,000 can often be arranged by phone
- Longer arrangements (2-3 years or more) typically require a professional advisor or insolvency practitioner to demonstrate long-term viability
- Interest continues to accrue during the TTP — it does NOT freeze
When HMRC Will Write Off Debt:
HMRC will only “remit” (write off) tax debt in extreme cases of “exceptional hardship” where you have no assets and no prospect of future income. This decision must be made by HMRC’s specialist teams. PDCS cannot write off HMRC debt.
Tax credit overpayments can be pursued for up to 20 years.
Dealing With HMRC Debt You Can’t Afford:
If you can’t afford a Time to Pay arrangement, you may need a formal debt solution:
- Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA) in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland
- Trust Deed in Scotland
These formal arrangements can include HMRC debt alongside your other debts. While HMRC debt itself isn’t written off in the same way as commercial debt, the formal structure protects you from enforcement action.
Verify HMRC Debts Before Paying:
Before you pay anything to PDCS for an HMRC debt, verify it’s genuine:
- Log into your Government Gateway account
- Check your tax account for outstanding balances
- Call HMRC directly on 0300 200 3300 if you’re unsure
Check if you qualify for an IVA and how much debt you could write off. Takes 2 minutes.
PDCS and the DVLA#
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency uses PDCS to collect specific penalties:
Types of DVLA Penalties:
- Road tax (Vehicle Excise Duty) fines for using or keeping an unlicensed vehicle
- SORN violations (failing to make a Statutory Off Road Notification for a vehicle not in use)
- Continuous Insurance Enforcement fines for vehicles that are neither insured nor declared SORN
The standard penalty is typically £80.
Critical: Paying PDCS Clears the Penalty But Doesn’t Tax Your Vehicle
This catches many people out. When you pay PDCS for a DVLA fine, you’re settling the penalty for a past violation. It does NOT automatically tax your vehicle. You must still complete the vehicle registration/taxation process separately through the DVLA.
What Happens If You Don’t Engage:
If you ignore PDCS on a DVLA debt, the DVLA’s enforcement partners (like NSL) can:
- Clamp your vehicle
- Remove your vehicle
- Crush your vehicle
Verify DVLA Debts:
Before paying PDCS for a DVLA fine, verify it’s genuine by calling DVLA directly on 0300 790 6801.
Is PDCS a Scam? How to Verify#
PDCS is legitimate — they’re FCA authorised (FRN 703411), a Credit Services Association member (No. 536), and hold multiple ISO accreditations.
But scammers impersonate them, especially via text message. HMRC and DVLA debts are high-value targets for scams.
How to Verify a Genuine PDCS Contact:
- Check the reference number matches your records or any previous correspondence
- Call PDCS on their published number: 0141 447 0554 (don’t use numbers provided in suspicious texts)
- For HMRC debts: Log into your Government Gateway account to verify
- For DVLA fines: Call DVLA on 0300 790 6801
- Visit their genuine website: pastduecredit.co.uk
Red Flags for Scam Texts:
- Offering refunds (HMRC and DVLA never send text messages offering refunds)
- Requesting payment via Bitcoin, gift cards, or other untraceable methods
- Links to non-official domains (anything other than pastduecredit.co.uk)
- No reference number or case details
- Threatening immediate legal action without prior correspondence
PDCS only accepts traditional, trackable payments: bank transfers, debit cards, and standing orders.
PDCS Text Messages and Letters#
PDCS uses text messages as a primary contact method. They’re cost-effective and have a high open rate.
Genuine PDCS Text Messages Include:
- A reference or “quote” number
- A request to call a specific number (e.g. 0141 447 0554)
- A link to pastduecredit.co.uk
- Details of the debt or creditor
Known PDCS Phone Numbers:
- Main number: 0141 447 0554
- Other numbers with the Glasgow area code (0141 prefix)
If you receive a text from a different number claiming to be PDCS, verify it by calling their main number directly.
Letter Sequence:
PDCS follows a standard escalation process:
- Introductory letter – Informs you that PDCS is now managing your account
- Reminder notice – Urges contact to avoid further action; often mentions repayment plans
- Notice of field visit – Warns that a “field agent” may visit your home
- Default notice / Notice of intention – Formal warning that the account will be defaulted or legal action considered
The “notice of field visit” is often a psychological tactic to prompt you to call them. It doesn’t mean a visit is definitely happening.
Can PDCS Send Bailiffs?#
No. PDCS field agents are NOT bailiffs.
What PDCS Field Agents CANNOT Do:
- Force entry into your property
- Seize goods or belongings
- Arrest you
- Enter if only a child or vulnerable person is present
What They Can Do:
Field agents can knock on your door to discuss the debt and attempt to secure payment or a repayment arrangement. This is called “doorstep collection.”
You have the legal right to ask them to leave. If they refuse, that could be classified as harassment under FCA rules.
Who CAN Force Entry:
Only these people have enforcement powers:
- Court-appointed bailiffs (after a County Court Judgment in England and Wales)
- Sheriff officers (after a decree in Scotland)
- HMRC enforcement officers (for tax debt specifically — these are HMRC staff, not PDCS agents)
PDCS field agents have none of these powers.
Can You Settle a PDCS Debt for Less?#
This depends entirely on the type of debt.
Commercial Debts (Utilities, Telecoms, Water):
Yes, settlement is possible. PDCS works on commission, so they’re incentivised to recover something rather than nothing.
Typical settlement percentages:
- Contingency-stage debts often settle for 50-80% of the total
- Older debts that have been cycled through multiple agencies may settle for less
- Start with a low offer (30%) and demonstrate financial hardship to improve your negotiating position
Critical: Get any settlement agreement in writing before paying. Confirm:
- The exact amount you’re paying
- That it settles the debt in full
- How it will be reported to credit reference agencies
- That the creditor agrees to the settlement
HMRC Debt:
No. HMRC requires full payment of tax owed. Your only options are:
- Time to Pay arrangement (spread payments over 6-12 months, or longer with professional advice)
- Requesting remission in extreme hardship cases (PDCS can’t make this decision — it goes back to HMRC)
DVLA Fines:
Generally must be paid in full. There’s no negotiation on statutory penalties.
If You Have Multiple Debts:
If PDCS is chasing you alongside other debts, an IVA could include the commercial debts and write off up to 70% of what you owe. HMRC debt can be included in an IVA, though it’s handled differently than commercial debt.
Check if you qualify for an IVA and how much debt you could write off. Takes 2 minutes.
Is Your PDCS Debt Statute-Barred?#
This is complex because PDCS is based in Scotland but collects debts UK-wide. The rules differ depending on where you live and the type of debt.
Scotland: 5-Year Prescription
Under the Prescription and Limitation (Scotland) Act 1973, most consumer debts prescribe after 5 years with no payment or written acknowledgement.
This is stronger than English law. When a Scottish debt prescribes, it’s extinguished — it ceases to exist in law. The creditor can’t pursue it at all.
England and Wales: 6-Year Limitation
Under the Limitation Act 1980, most consumer debts become statute-barred after 6 years with no payment or acknowledgement.
The debt still technically exists, but it’s unenforceable. Creditors can’t use the court system to recover it.
Critical Exceptions:
These debts do NOT have standard limitation periods:
- HMRC tax debt: NO time limit. They can pursue indefinitely.
- Tax credit overpayments: Up to 20 years
- Council tax (Scotland): 20-year limitation
- Benefit overpayments: Often up to 20 years
Do NOT Restart the Clock:
If you think your debt might be statute-barred or prescribed, do NOT:
- Make a payment (even £1)
- Acknowledge the debt in writing
- Sign any paperwork admitting you owe the money
Any of these actions restart the limitation clock.
If PDCS Is Chasing a Statute-Barred Debt:
Write to them stating:
- You believe the debt is statute-barred/prescribed under the Limitation Act 1980 (England/Wales) or Prescription and Limitation (Scotland) Act 1973 (Scotland)
- The date of your last payment or acknowledgement
- You’re not acknowledging the debt now
- Request they cease all contact
Keep copies of all correspondence. If they continue pursuing the debt after being told it’s statute-barred, report them to the FCA.
Your Rights When Dealing with PDCS#
PDCS must follow the FCA’s Consumer Credit Sourcebook (CONC) rules. These require fair treatment and prohibit aggressive practices.
PDCS Must:
- Treat you fairly and not use aggressive or misleading tactics
- Stop contacting you if you request it in writing (though this doesn’t make the debt disappear)
- Contact you only at reasonable times
- Not discuss your debt with anyone else (family, neighbours, employers) without your permission
- Not misrepresent their powers (e.g. claiming they can seize goods when they can’t)
- Identify vulnerable customers and adjust their approach accordingly (BS 18477 compliance)
You Can:
- Request letter-only contact to stop all phone calls and texts
- Request they return your account to the original creditor (since they don’t own the debt)
- Request a copy of the original credit agreement under Section 77/78 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974 (though this doesn’t apply to HMRC or DVLA debts, which aren’t credit agreements)
- Complain if they breach FCA rules
Vulnerable Customers:
If you’re in a vulnerable situation (mental health issues, serious illness, recent bereavement, learning difficulties), inform PDCS in writing. They must adjust their approach. Their BS 18477 accreditation requires this.
How to Stop PDCS Contacting You#
You have several options depending on your situation:
Option 1: Pay the Debt or Set Up a Repayment Plan
The most direct way to stop contact is to resolve the debt. If you can afford it:
- Pay in full
- Negotiate a settlement (for commercial debts only)
- Arrange a repayment plan (Time to Pay for HMRC debts)
Option 2: Request Letter-Only Contact
Write to PDCS (send by recorded delivery):
“I request that all future contact about this account is made in writing only. Do not contact me by phone, text message, or in person. Under FCA CONC rules, you must respect this request.”
This stops calls and texts. They can still send letters. You must respond to the letters to avoid the situation escalating.
Option 3: Dispute the Debt
If the debt isn’t yours or the amount is wrong, write to PDCS requesting proof:
- Copy of the original credit agreement (if applicable)
- Statement of account showing all transactions
- Confirmation of their authority to pursue the debt
- Breakdown of interest and charges
Don’t acknowledge the debt in this letter. Simply request verification.
Option 4: Breathing Space
The Breathing Space scheme (Debt Respite Scheme) gives you 60 days of legal protection:
- All interest and charges freeze
- Creditors and debt collectors must stop all contact and enforcement
- Gives you time to get advice and decide on a solution
You must apply through a debt advisor. Contact us for free debt help.
Option 5: IVA or Trust Deed
Once approved, an Individual Voluntary Arrangement (England, Wales, N. Ireland) or Trust Deed (Scotland) legally stops all creditor contact for included debts.
Your insolvency practitioner becomes the single point of contact. PDCS must deal with them, not you.
Check if you qualify for an IVA in 2 minutes.
Option 6: Statute-Barred Debt
If the debt is statute-barred or prescribed (see section above), write to PDCS stating this and requesting they cease contact.
PDCS Contact Details#
Phone: 0141 447 0554
Address: Past Due Credit Solutions Limited 1 Blair Court North Avenue Clydebank Business Park Clydebank Glasgow G81 2LA
Website: pastduecredit.co.uk
Complaints: Write to the above address marked “Complaints Department”
FCA Register: Check their authorisation status at FRN 703411 on the FCA Register
How to Complain About PDCS#
If PDCS has treated you unfairly or breached FCA rules, follow this process:
Step 1: Complain to PDCS Directly
Write to:
Complaints Department Past Due Credit Solutions Limited 1 Blair Court, North Avenue Clydebank Business Park Clydebank, Glasgow, G81 2LA
Detail exactly what happened, when, and how PDCS breached the rules. Include evidence (copies of letters, text messages, call logs).
PDCS must acknowledge your complaint within 5 business days and provide a final response within 8 weeks.
Step 2: Financial Ombudsman Service
If PDCS doesn’t resolve your complaint within 8 weeks, or you’re unhappy with their response, escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service.
This is free and independent. The Ombudsman can order PDCS to:
- Stop pursuing the debt
- Pay you compensation
- Remove entries from your credit file
Step 3: Report to the FCA
For serious rule breaches (harassment, misrepresentation of powers, data protection violations), report PDCS to the Financial Conduct Authority.
Step 4: Information Commissioner’s Office
For data protection issues (sharing your information without permission, failing to respond to Subject Access Requests), report to the ICO.
HMRC-Related Complaints:
If PDCS is collecting for HMRC and you want to complain about how HMRC instructed them or about the debt itself, also complain directly to HMRC referencing the HMRC Charter.
Frequently Asked Questions#
What does PDCS stand for?#
PDCS stands for Past Due Credit Solutions. Their full legal name is Pastdue Credit Solutions Limited (company number SC287794).
Is PDCS the same as a bailiff?#
No. PDCS is a debt collection agency. They cannot force entry, seize goods, or arrest you. Only court-appointed bailiffs or HMRC enforcement officers have those powers.
Can PDCS take money from my wages?#
Not directly. PDCS can’t take money from your wages without a court order. If they obtain a County Court Judgment (CCJ) against you and you still don’t pay, they can apply for an Attachment of Earnings Order. The court then orders your employer to deduct payments. This only works if you’re employed (not self-employed).
Can PDCS affect my credit score?#
Yes, if the debt they’re collecting is reported to credit reference agencies. PDCS doesn’t report debts themselves — the original creditor does. But if PDCS obtains a CCJ against you for non-payment, that CCJ appears on your credit file for 6 years and significantly damages your credit score.
Why is PDCS calling from a Glasgow number?#
PDCS’s main operations centre is in Clydebank, just outside Glasgow. Their phone number is 0141 447 0554 (0141 is the Glasgow area code). They manage UK-wide collection activities from this single location.
Can PDCS take me to court?#
Yes. If you ignore the debt and don’t engage with PDCS, they can recommend the creditor applies for a County Court Judgment (CCJ) in England and Wales, or a decree in Scotland. The creditor must send you a default notice or notice of intention first, giving you time to respond. If the court grants the judgment and you still don’t pay, enforcement can escalate to bailiffs.
Do HMRC really use PDCS?#
Yes. PDCS has been on the official HMRC debt collection panel since 2009. HMRC uses private agencies to supplement their internal Debt Management department. If you receive contact from PDCS about tax debt, verify it through your Government Gateway account, but it’s likely genuine.
Is the PDCS text message genuine?#
PDCS is legitimate, but scammers impersonate them. A genuine PDCS text includes a reference number, a callback number (usually 0141 447 0554), and a link to pastduecredit.co.uk. It will NEVER offer you a refund or ask for payment via Bitcoin/gift cards. When in doubt, call PDCS on their published number or verify the debt with the original creditor (HMRC via Government Gateway, DVLA on 0300 790 6801).
Can I negotiate with PDCS?#
For commercial debts (utilities, telecoms), yes. You can negotiate a settlement or repayment plan. Start with a low offer and demonstrate financial hardship. For HMRC tax debt, no. HMRC requires full payment. Your only option is a Time to Pay arrangement or, in extreme cases, requesting remission. For DVLA fines, penalties generally must be paid in full.
What happens if I ignore PDCS?#
Ignoring PDCS doesn’t make the debt go away. For commercial debts, they may escalate to court action (CCJ), which damages your credit file for 6 years. For HMRC debts, ignoring them can lead to enforcement by HMRC’s own officers, who have greater powers including forced entry. For DVLA fines, your vehicle can be clamped, removed, or crushed. The best approach is to verify the debt, understand your rights, and get professional advice.
Need help dealing with PDCS? Check if you qualify for an IVA and how much debt you could write off. Free and takes 2 minutes.