Your Credit Report After a Bankruptcy or Consumer Proposal

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Debts included in a bankruptcy should be rated as R-9 or I-9, indicating written-off, and the outstanding balance should be reported as zero. There should also be a note indicating “included in bankruptcy” below the trade line for the corresponding creditor. Debts included in a consumer proposal should be rated as R-7 or I-7 and the outstanding balance should also be reported as zero.

Debts Owing to the Canada Revenue Agency

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Many people believe that debts owing to CRA will never go away. That is not necessarily the case, particularly when an individual goes bankrupt or files a proposal under the provisions of the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act (“BIA”). However, prior to file personal bankruptcy or a consumer proposal, CRA has some significant legislated powers to collect debts.; including garnishing paycheques, seizing bank accounts.

How to Avoid Bankruptcy

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You can’t go bankrupt if you have no debt! Bankruptcy is a relief valve for people and companies who find themselves unable to cope with overwhelming debts. Bankruptcy is not necessarily the only option for resolving debts, but the availability of other options depends on individual circumstances. The sooner you identify and get assistance with your debts, the more options you have.

Consumer Proposal vs. Credit Counselling?

With all of the choices facing financially distressed consumers, it’s important to compare your options. The most common options are a Consumer Proposal only available through a Licensed Insolvency Trustee or a Debt Management/Repayment Plan offered by credit counselling agencies.

Will Bankruptcy Take Care of Judgments?

Yes, judgments from creditors do get released when you file a personal bankruptcy or complete a consumer proposal. However, judgments registered against your assets by Canada Revenue Agency do not get released when you file a personal bankruptcy or complete a consumer proposal.

Using Your Credit Cards Prior To Bankruptcy or Proposal

Borrowing money with the intent of not paying it back may be considered fraud which is a criminal offence.  Debts from fraudulent activities are not dischargeable in a personal bankruptcy or a consumer proposal.  If you are having a difficult time paying your debts, we recommend that you cease using your credit cards and contact a Licensed Insolvency Trustee to review your situation and discuss your options.

January 2015 Personal Bankruptcy & Consumer Proposal Statistics

Personal bankruptcies were down 6% and consumer proposal filings were up 8% as compared to the 12-months ended January 31, 2014.

December 2014 – Personal Bankruptcy & Consumer Proposal Statistics

Personal bankruptcies were down 6.3% and consumer proposal filings were up 7.6% as compared to the 12-months ended December 31, 2013.

What happens If My Ex-Spouse Goes Bankrupt?

If both parties have agreed to assume responsibility for certain debts, it does not absolve them, if one of them defaults on a debt, that was granted to both parties jointly. Bankruptcy laws and family laws do not deal with assets and liabilities in the same way; there can be conflicts and unintended consequences when the two interact.

Financial Literacy – Understanding Collateral Mortgages

The mortgage process is changing and many banks have are now using collateral mortgages when you purchase or refinance your home.  A collateral mortgage typically designed to secure all obligations that you owe to the bank and there is no dollar limit on the mortgage.