Empowering Financial Recovery: Understanding Consumer Proposals in Canada
- What is a consumer proposal, and how does it work in Canada? A consumer proposal is a legal agreement between a debtor and their creditors that outlines a plan to pay off a portion of the debt owed. It is administered by a licensed insolvency trustee (LIT) and allows the debtor to repay their debts over a period of time, usually up to 5 years.
- Who is eligible for a consumer proposal in Canada? Individuals with a minimum of $1,000 and a maximum of $250,000 in unsecured debts are eligible for a consumer proposal in Canada. They must also have a regular income to support the proposed repayment plan.
- How does a consumer proposal affect my credit score in Canada? A consumer proposal will impact your credit score in Canada, but the effect is typically less severe than filing for bankruptcy. It will remain on your credit report for 3 years after the proposal is completed or 6 years after it is filed, whichever comes first.
- How much does a consumer proposal cost in Canada? The cost of a consumer proposal in Canada varies depending on the debtor’s financial situation and the amount of debt owed. It typically ranges from $1,500 to $3,000, which is paid out of the debtor’s monthly payments.
- How long does a consumer proposal take to complete in Canada? A consumer proposal in Canada typically takes 3-5 years to complete, depending on the proposed repayment plan and the debtor’s financial situation.
- Can creditors reject a consumer proposal in Canada? Yes, creditors have the right to accept or reject a consumer proposal in Canada. However, if a proposal is rejected, the debtor and their LIT can work with the creditors to come up with an alternative proposal.
- What happens if I miss a payment on my consumer proposal in Canada? If you miss a payment on your consumer proposal in Canada, it can result in default and the proposal may be annulled. It’s important to communicate with your LIT if you are having difficulty making payments.
- Can I keep my assets during a consumer proposal in Canada? Yes, you can keep your assets during a consumer proposal in Canada. However, you may need to make additional payments to your creditors to retain certain assets such as a home or car.
- Will my wage be garnished during a consumer proposal in Canada? No, your wages will not be garnished during a consumer proposal in Canada. However, if you fail to make payments as agreed, the proposal may be annulled and your creditors may take legal action.
- Can I apply for a new loan or credit during a consumer proposal in Canada? It is generally not recommended to apply for new loans or credit during a consumer proposal in Canada. The proposal will remain on your credit report, and new creditors may be hesitant to lend to you while you are still repaying your existing debts
Contact us today if you have any questions about Consumer Proposals.