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CREDIT CARDS DEBT SOLUTIONS TORONTO: THE LICENSED INSOLVENCY TRUSTEE COMPLETE GUIDE

credit cards debt

Understanding Credit Cards Debt

It has recently been reported in the Canadian media that Canadians living in the GTA, including Vaughan, Markham, Toronto, Mississauga and York Region are now falling behind in both mortgage payments and other debt payments, including credit cards. If you’re losing sleep over credit cards debt and wondering if another cup of coffee can fix insolvency, you’re in good company. Let me tell you about one potential client who decided to pay down her debt by selling everything but the kitchen sink (that story ends with a suspiciously clean living room and a little more dignity than she expected).

Credit cards debt isn’t just numbers—it’s late-night stress, broken sleep, and more apologizing to your barista than you’d like. But if you’re buried in statements, you need more than the usual advice you’ve heard a dozen times. In this Brandon’s Blog, I’m being real to give you some breathing room.

Before we dive into solutions, let’s be clear on what we’re dealing with. Credit cards debt isn’t just those numbers on your monthly statement—it’s a financial reality that affects millions of Canadians every day.

Definition and Basics

Credit cards debt occurs when you carry a balance from month to month instead of paying off your entire statement balance. Here’s how it works: when you make purchases with your credit card and don’t pay the entire balance by the due date, the remaining amount becomes debt. The credit card company then charges interest on this balance, and if you only make minimum payments, that interest compounds monthly.

In Canada, the average credit card interest rate sits around 19-29% annually. That means if you owe $5,000 and only make minimum payments, you could end up paying thousands more in interest over time. The math is brutal, but understanding it is your first step toward taking control.

Impact on Credit Score

Your credit cards debt directly affects your credit score in several ways. Payment history makes up 35% of your credit score—the biggest factor. Missing payments or making late payments can drop your score significantly. But there’s another sneaky factor: credit utilization.

Credit utilization is how much of your available credit you’re using. If you have a $10,000 limit and owe $7,000, you’re using 70% of your available credit. Experts recommend keeping this below 30%, ideally under 10%. High utilization signals to lenders that you might be financially stretched, which can hurt your score even if you’re making payments on time.

A damaged credit score doesn’t just affect future credit cards—it can impact your ability to get a mortgage, car loan, or even rent an apartment. Some employers and insurance companies also check credit scores.

Here’s where things get serious. If you stop making payments entirely, credit card companies won’t just send stern letters forever. In Canada, they can take legal action to collect what you owe.

After several months of non-payment, your account typically gets sent to collections. If collection efforts fail, the creditor can sue you for the debt. If they win (which they usually do), they can obtain a court judgment. With this judgment, they can:

  • Garnish your wages: In Ontario, creditors can take up to 20% of your gross wages directly from your paycheck
  • Freeze your bank accounts: They can obtain a court order to freeze funds in your bank accounts
  • Place liens on property: In some cases, they can put a lien on your home or other assets

The good news? There are legal protections and exemptions. Certain types of income, like social assistance, employment insurance, and pensions, have some protection from garnishment. But don’t wait for it to get this far—there are always better options.

Causes of Credit Cards Debt

Understanding how you got here is crucial for making sure it doesn’t happen again. Let’s break down the main culprits behind credit card debt in Canada.

High Annual Percentage Rates (APR)

Canadian credit card interest rates are among the highest forms of consumer debt. While mortgage rates might be around 5-7%, credit cards typically charge 19-29% annually. Some store cards and cash advance rates can be even higher.

Here’s the kicker: credit card companies make most of their money from interest, not annual fees. They’re betting that you’ll carry a balance, and those high rates ensure they profit handsomely when you do. Even if you think you’ll pay it off quickly, life has a way of getting in the way.

Only Paying the Minimum

This is the credit card company’s favourite scenario. Minimum payments are typically calculated as a small percentage of your balance, often just 2-3%. On a $5,000 balance with a 20% interest rate, your minimum payment might be only $100.

But here’s the trap: most of that payment goes toward interest, not principal. You might pay $80 in interest and only $20 toward your actual debt. At this rate, it would take over 30 years to pay off that $5,000, and you’d pay more than $11,000 in total. The credit card companies designed it this way.

Poor Money Management

Let’s be honest,, without being judgmental, many Canadians never learned proper money management skills. Schools, until very recently, didn’t teach budgeting, and many families don’t discuss finances openly. You’re not alone if you’re figuring this out as you go.

Poor money management often looks like:

  • Not tracking spending or having a budget
  • Using credit cards for regular expenses without a payoff plan
  • Not understanding how interest compounds
  • Making financial decisions based on emotions rather than facts
  • Treating available credit as available money

The good news? These are all learnable skills, and it’s never too late to start.

Unexpected Expenses

Sometimes credit card debt isn’t about poor planning—it’s about life throwing you curveballs. Car repairs, medical expenses, job loss, or family emergencies can force you to rely on credit cards for survival.

In Canada, many people don’t have adequate emergency savings. Statistics show that nearly half of Canadians are within $200 of not being able to pay their bills each month. When unexpected expenses hit, credit cards become the only option. While this might be necessary in the moment, it can quickly spiral into long-term debt problems.

Credit cards debt relief solutions thumbnail showing broken credit cards with red to green gradient background and Canadian maple leaf, representing freedom from debt for Toronto residents
credit cards debt

Consequences of Credit Cards Debt

The impact of credit cards debt goes far beyond just owing money. It affects your entire financial life and, frankly, your overall well-being.

Financial Implications

The most obvious consequence is the financial cost. High interest rates mean you’re paying much more than the original purchase price. But the financial implications go deeper:

Opportunity Cost: Every dollar you pay in credit card interest is a dollar you can’t save, invest, or spend on things you need. If you’re paying $200 monthly in credit card interest, that’s $2,400 per year that could have gone toward building an emergency fund or saving for a down payment.

Reduced Borrowing Power: High credit card balances hurt your debt-to-income ratio, making it harder to qualify for mortgages, car loans, or other credit. Even if you do qualify, you might face higher interest rates because you’re seen as a higher risk.

Limited Financial Flexibility: When a large portion of your income goes to debt payments, you have less room to handle life’s ups and downs. A minor emergency can become a major crisis when you’re already stretched thin.

Compound Effect: Credit card debt can create a vicious cycle. High balances lead to high minimum payments, leaving less money for other expenses, which can lead to more credit card use, which increases balances and minimum payments.

Psychological and Physiological Impacts

Here’s what the financial industry doesn’t always talk about: debt stress is real, and it affects your health in measurable ways.

Mental Health Effects: Persistent worry about money can lead to anxiety and depression. Many Canadians report losing sleep over their finances. The constant stress of juggling payments, avoiding calls from creditors, and feeling trapped can take a serious toll on mental health.

Physical Health Impacts: Chronic financial stress doesn’t just stay in your head. It can cause:

  • Headaches and muscle tension
  • Digestive problems
  • High blood pressure
  • Weakened immune system
  • Sleep disorders

Relationship Strain: Money problems are one of the leading causes of relationship conflicts and divorce in Canada. The stress of debt can affect how you interact with family and friends. Some people become withdrawn, while others become irritable or defensive about spending.

Self-Worth Issues: Many people tie their financial situation to their worth. Debt can lead to feelings of shame, failure, or inadequacy. This emotional burden can make it even harder to take the practical steps needed to address the debt.

Decision Fatigue: Constantly worrying about money and making difficult financial choices can exhaust your mental energy. This can lead to poor decision-making in other areas of life, creating a cycle where stress leads to more problems.

The important thing to remember is that these impacts are real and valid, but they’re also temporary. As you work toward solving your debt problems, you’ll likely notice improvements in these areas too. Your mental and physical health matter just as much as your financial health—they’re all connected.

Credit Cards Debt Confessions from Rock Bottom: Facing the Debt Monster

If you’re staring at your credit card statements, feeling like you’re drowning in debt with no cash in sight, you’re not alone. Canadians everywhere are feeling the squeeze—rising living costs, job uncertainty, and hefty mortgages and car loans have pushed many to the edge. The stress is real, and sleepless nights are a common occurrence. But here’s the truth: the first step out of this mess is financial honesty—with a healthy dose of tough love.

“Being honest with yourself is the bravest first step out of a debt spiral.” — Lesley-Anne Scorgie

Step One: Brutal Honesty About Your Debt

Before you can build any debt management strategy, you need a clear picture of where you stand. Grab whatever works—a spreadsheet, a napkin, your phone—and list every credit card balance, interest rate, and minimum payment. No skipping, no sugarcoating. This is your financial reality check. Research shows that self-assessment and goal-setting are the cornerstones of effective financial planning.

  • List all debts (credit cards, loans, lines of credit)
  • Record each interest rate, especially the high ones
  • Note when the minimum payments are due

High-interest credit card debt can quietly drain your finances the fastest. Identifying which card is costing you the most is key—this is where your focus should go first.

Step Two: Ditch the Self-Blame, Start Planning

It’s easy to spiral into guilt or shame, but that won’t help you pay off a single dollar. Instead, channel that energy into actionable planning. Canadians’ confidence in repaying credit cards debt is slowly rising—45% now expect it will take six months or more to get out from under, down from 51% last year. That’s progress, and it starts with a plan.

Step Three: Pause All Non-Essential Spending

This is the tough part. Cutting out non-essential spending feels scary, but it’s a game-changer. Cancel subscriptions, skip takeout, and avoid impulse buys. Every dollar you save can go toward your minimum payments. Even small changes add up fast. If you’re worried about missing out, remember: this is temporary, and it pays off in the long run.

Step Four: Use Every Tool—Even Your Tax Refund

Over 70% of Canadians receive a tax refund. If you’re one of them, put that money straight toward your highest-interest debt. It’s a quick way to make a dent and boost your momentum. Research indicates that even a small windfall can help you break the cycle of minimum payments and mounting interest rates.

Real Talk: Stress Is Normal, But Action Is Powerful

Stress and sleeplessness are natural side effects of financial strain. Don’t beat yourself up. Instead, focus on what you can control: honest self-assessment, a clear debt management strategy, and a commitment to trimming expenses. Facing your debt monster head-on is tough, but it’s the only way forward. And remember, if you need help, there are professionals and programs ready to support you.

Credit cards debt relief solutions thumbnail showing broken credit cards with red to green gradient background and Canadian maple leaf, representing freedom from debt for Toronto residents
credit cards debt

The Great Cash Hunt: Squeezing Pennies From Stone (and Facebook)

If you’re a Canadian consumer worried about your credit cards debt and wondering where on earth you’ll find extra income, you’re not alone. The good news? There are more ways to squeeze cash from your current situation than you might think—even if it feels like you’re wringing water from a stone.

Unconventional Ways to Boost Cash Flow

Let’s get creative. Research shows that Canadian debt advice often starts with side hustles and decluttering. Have you considered picking up extra shifts at work or dusting off an old side hustle? Babysitting, dog walking, house cleaning, or even personal training can add up quickly. And don’t forget about that tax refund—over 70% of Canadians are owed money by the CRA. Even if you’re late, file those taxes! That refund could be the cash lifeline you need.

  • Extra shifts: Ask your employer for overtime or additional hours
  • Side hustles: Babysitting, dog walking, or cleaning for neighbours
  • Late tax filing: Don’t skip it—your tax refund might surprise you
  • Collect owed money: Follow up on bonuses or debts friends still owe you

Declutter With Abandon

Here’s where things get interesting. If it’s collecting dust, it’s potential debt relief. Look around: that old bike, the bread maker you never use, or the stack of video games from 2012. Platforms like Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace are full of buyers. This potential client sold a rare ’90s bike for double what she paid—sometimes nostalgia pays off in real cash.

“Every forgotten gadget or outgrown coat is a tiny step out of debt.” — Lesley-Anne Scorgie

Don’t underestimate the power of decluttering. Not only does it free up space, but it can also give you a quick cash injection. Research indicates that selling possessions is one of the most common ways Canadians improve cash flow in a pinch.

Strategic Cuts: Kill Non-Essential Spending

Now’s the time to go full-on military with your budget. Cancel unused subscriptions and memberships. Grocery shop with a plan—no more wandering the aisles and tossing random snacks into your cart. Buy only what you need, and aim for zero food waste. If you’re renting or leasing, avoid renewing unless it’s necessary. Every dollar saved is a dollar that can go toward your debt.

  • Subscriptions: Cut anything you don’t use weekly
  • Groceries: Shop with a list, buy in bulk, and cook at home
  • No new leases: Hold off on new car or apartment leases if you can

Remember, cutting recurring costs is more powerful than chasing random coupons. The goal is to redirect every spare dollar toward lowering your credit cards debt. As you chip away at your balances, you’ll start to see progress—and that’s the best motivation of all.

Avalanche, Not Snowball: Smarter Ways to Attack Credit Cards Debt

If you’re staring at a stack of credit card bills and feeling like you’re drowning, you’re not alone. Canadians everywhere are facing the same uphill battle, especially as interest rates stay higher and the cost of living squeezes every last dollar. But there’s a smarter way to dig out—one that doesn’t just chip away at your debt, but helps you save on interest and get ahead faster: the Avalanche Method.

Here’s the real talk: you must always make your minimum payments on every card. That’s non-negotiable. But if you can scrape together even a little extra, whether from a side gig, selling unused stuff, or cutting back on spending, throw every spare dollar at the card with the highest interest rate. That’s your financial enemy number one. This is the heart of the Avalanche Method, and it’s proven to save you more money than the popular “snowball” approach, which focuses on the smallest balance first.

Why does this work? Because interest rates on credit cards debt are brutal. By targeting the highest-rate balance, you slow the snowballing effect of compounding interest. Research shows that Canadians who stick to the Avalanche Method and stay ruthless about not adding new debt can see real progress in as little as 90 days. As Lesley-Anne Scorgie puts it:

“The avalanche method only works if you avoid new debt while attacking existing balances.”

That’s the catch. You have to be relentless. No new purchases, no “just this once” exceptions. If you’re serious about getting out of credit card chaos, every dollar counts—and every new charge sets you back.

But what if you’re still falling behind, even after cutting expenses and boosting your income? Don’t panic. This is when you pick up the phone and call your credit card companies. It might feel intimidating, but remember: they want to get paid. Explain your situation honestly and ask about options like:

  • Lowering your interest rates
  • Waiving late or over-limit fees
  • Setting up a hardship plan

Sometimes, just asking is enough to get a break. And if you hear about debt consolidation or balance transfer offers, listen up. These strategies let you combine your debts—possibly even other loans—into a single payment with a lower interest rate. That means more of your money goes toward the principal, not just the interest. But be careful: applying for too many new credit products can ding your score, and missed payments might make it tough to qualify for the best rates.

If you’re stuck, consider a Debt Management Plan (DMP) through a non-profit credit counselling agency. Research indicates that DMPs can slash your interest rates—sometimes down to zero—and help you pay off debt faster. It’s not a magic fix, but it’s a lifeline for many Canadians feeling overwhelmed by credit card chaos.

Bottom line? The Avalanche Method, paired with honest communication and smart debt management strategies, gives you the best shot at breaking free from high-interest debt. Stay focused, stay ruthless, and remember: you’re not alone in this fight.

Credit cards debt relief solutions thumbnail showing broken credit cards with red to green gradient background and Canadian maple leaf, representing freedom from debt for Toronto residents
credit cards debt

Last Stop: When DIY Doesn’t Cut It, Call the Credit Cards Debt Pros

Let’s be real—sometimes, no matter how hard you hustle, cut back, or negotiate, your debt just won’t budge. If you’ve spent 90 days throwing everything you’ve got at your credit cards debt and you’re still underwater, it’s time to consider a different approach. Don’t wait for disaster to strike. This is the moment to reach out for professional debt relief—and there’s no shame in that.

Here’s the truth: Licensed insolvency trustees are the debt pros. We’re not here to judge you or scold you for past mistakes. Instead, we offer expert, practical help tailored for Canadians facing tough financial realities. Research shows that specialized support from credit counselling agencies and insolvency trustees can make a world of difference when self-guided strategies just aren’t enough. They’ll walk you through your options, including the possibility of an Ontario consumer proposal—a formal arrangement that lets you pay back a portion of what you owe, and stopping those relentless collection calls in their tracks.

What’s a consumer proposal, exactly? Think of it as a structured alternative to bankruptcy, designed specifically for Canadians who need a lifeline. With a consumer proposal, you work with a licensed insolvency trustee to negotiate a manageable repayment plan with your creditors. This can mean lower monthly payments, frozen interest, and—best of all—peace of mind. It’s not a magic wand, but it’s a real, legal solution that can help you rebuild without the crushing stigma of bankruptcy.

Maybe you’re considering borrowing from family or friends to get by. If you go down this road, treat it like a real loan. Write out an agreement, set a clear repayment schedule, and stick to it. This isn’t just about protecting your relationships—it’s about building trust and accountability as you work toward debt relief.

One thing to keep in mind: if you’ve tried for a consolidation loan and been turned down, don’t keep reapplying in a panic. Each application can ding your credit score, making things even harder. Instead, focus on making progress for a few months, then try again if your situation improves.

Most importantly, know this: asking for expert help isn’t failure—it’s financial self-defence. As Lesley-Anne Scorgie puts it:

“Asking for expert help isn’t failure—it’s financial self-defence.”

So, if you’ve given it your all for 90 days and you’re still stuck, don’t let shame or fear hold you back. Connect with a licensed insolvency trustee or a reputable credit counselling agency. They’ll help you explore every option, from consumer proposals to debt management plans, and guide you toward a future where your money—and your life—are back under your control.

Credit Cards Debt: Conclusion

You’re not alone in this. There’s a path forward, and it starts with reaching out for the right kind of help. Take that step—you deserve it. If you’re a GTA resident dealing with overwhelming debt, don’t wait for your credit situation to get worse. As a licensed insolvency trustee serving Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Markham, and surrounding areas, I’m here to help you understand your options.

Free consultation available:

  • No obligation to proceed
  • Complete review of your debt and credit situation
  • Clear explanation of how debt solutions affect your Equifax credit score
  • Practical next steps you can take immediately

Remember: Your current financial situation doesn’t define your future. With the right help and information, you can overcome both debt challenges and credit score problems.

As a licensed insolvency trustee serving the Greater Toronto Area, I encourage consumers and business owners to view financial difficulties not as failures but as challenges that can be addressed with proper guidance. By understanding the warning signs of insolvency and seeking professional advice early, many people and businesses can find a path forward – whether through restructuring, strategic changes, or in some cases, an orderly wind-down that protects their future opportunities.

Remember: The earlier you seek help for company insolvency concerns, the more options you’ll have.

If you or someone you know is struggling with too much debt, remember that the financial restructuring process, while complex, offers viable solutions with the right guidance. As a licensed insolvency trustee serving the Greater Toronto Area, I help entrepreneurs understand their options and find a path forward during financial challenges.

At the Ira Smith Team, we understand the financial and emotional components of debt struggles. We’ve seen how traditional approaches often fall short in today’s economic environment, so we focus on modern debt relief options that can help you avoid bankruptcy while still achieving financial freedom.

The stress of financial challenges can be overwhelming. We take the time to understand your unique situation and develop customized strategies that address both your financial needs and emotional well-being. There’s no “one-size-fits-all” approach here—your financial solution should be as unique as the challenges you’re facing.

If any of this sounds familiar and you’re serious about finding a solution, reach out to the Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. team today for a free consultation. We’re committed to helping you or your company get back on the road to healthy, stress-free operations and recover from financial difficulties. Starting Over, Starting Now.

The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended to constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers are encouraged to seek professional advice regarding their specific situations. The content should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional guidance or consultation. The author, Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc., and any contributors do not assume any liability for any loss or damage.

Credit cards debt relief solutions thumbnail showing broken credit cards with red to green gradient background and Canadian maple leaf, representing freedom from debt for Toronto residents
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CONSOLIDATION LOANS IN CANADA: IS IT POSSIBLE TO CONSOLIDATE DEBT BY USING THIS 1 SIMPLE GOING POSTAL HACK?

Debt consolidation loans in Canada

Debt consolidation loans in Canada can be an excellent means to conserve money and get your funds in order. By combining several financial obligations into an affordable single loan, you can frequently get a lower rate of interest and also reduced month-to-month payments. This can assist you to get out of debt quicker as well as save cash over time.

Prior to getting debt consolidation loans in Canada, it is very important to understand the terms of the financing and also to make sure you can afford the monthly payments. It’s also a good idea to look around and compare rates of interest and also loan terms from various financial institutions.

In this Brandon’s Blog, I discuss the concept of debt consolidation loans in Canada and a sort of new potential lender offering personal loans in Canada. I will also share another debt settlement and debt consolidation option that may be beneficial for people and companies who want to repair their financial situation.

Advantages as well as downsides of consolidation loans in Canada

Upsides

Debt consolidation loans in Canada can offer many benefits over making regular monthly payments on many different loans and debts with different interest rates. Interest rates on some debts, like credit card debt, can be categorized as high-interest debts, making it difficult to make a dent in the balance owing. if all you ever do is make the monthly minimum payment.

Consolidation loans supply a number of advantages, such as:

Reduced interest rates Lenders normally give consumers reduced rates of interest on individual personal loans allowing them to repay their high-interest-rate credit card debt. Consolidation loans in Canada can be an excellent method to obtain a lower rate of interest and come to be debt-free quicker.

Reduce your monthly payments – Banks and credit unions usually offer debt consolidation loans in Canada with terms of up to 5 years. This, along with the lower interest rate, can help you save a lot of money in the long run and give you a lower monthly payment than the sum of the monthly payments required under your many debts.

A single payment instead of multiple payments – One of the best things about debt consolidation loans in Canada is that you only have to make one monthly payment. This makes it much easier to budget and stick to your plan. Instead of having to remember to pay six different bills each month, you only have to worry about one.

Potentially improved credit scores – Your credit report is a number that banks make use of to determine your creditworthiness. A high credit rating suggests you are a low-risk borrower, which is excellent. A bad credit rating indicates you are high-risk, which is bad.

By obtaining a debt consolidation loan, making on-time payments and paying it off on time without a payment schedule default or late payments, you are restoring your bad credit score in 2 ways. First, you have revealed that you had the ability to fully settle all of your other financial debts. Second, you are repairing your credit score by making the consolidation loan payments on time. It is not instant, yet in time, paying off debt consolidation loans in Canada will certainly improve your credit rating. Over time, you will see your credit score and credit report improve.

Downsides

There are a few downsides to debt consolidation loans in Canada, including:

Debt consolidation loans in Canada are often referred to as “easy money.” But they aren’t always easy. Even though many consumers think they qualify for a loan based solely on their disposable income, there are certain circumstances where Canadian banks will not see your monthly income in as good a light as you do. You will need collateral such as real estate, cars, boats, etc.

If you do not have these things, you may be at a disadvantage. Most banks will not lend money to someone with a low credit score unless they have some form of security, such as a car or house with enough equity. This makes sense because the lender knows that it is a debt consolidation loan you are applying for and by definition, you cannot pay off your credit card balances without their loan. They will want to protect themselves against the chance you may default on the loan.

When choosing a bank, you’ll want to compare fees, interest rates and prepayment penalties to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Keep in mind that the lowest fees don’t always mean the best overall value, so be sure to compare all aspects of the loan before making a decision. You might even consider getting one of the types of secured loans by raising money against your home through a home equity line of credit or a second mortgage. So compare your offers of secured loans and unsecured debt consolidation loans in Canada very carefully to consider all factors in deciding which is best for you.

WARNING: Stay away from private lenders, payday lenders and most alternative lenders who may provide loans just as expensive as payday loans. Their fees and high-interest loans will never be in your favour.debt consolidation loans in canada

Consolidation loans in Canada: Can you consolidate student loan debt?

Students and recent graduates who find themselves buried under student loan debt often look for help. They want to consolidate their debts into one manageable monthly payment, but this can be difficult to obtain because there are few debt consolidation loans specifically designed for them.

Many recent graduates lack the credit history or income to qualify for a consolidation loan. They also generally do not have any free assets to qualify for a single secured debt consolidation loan to pay out over a longer period of time at a lower interest rate.

Unsecured loans to young people with a little credit history will be more expensive than one to an individual with a long-established credit history. That assumes that they can even qualify for this type of loan.

For these reasons, other than perhaps for a recent graduate from either medicine or dentistry who perhaps can roll their student debt into a professional loan, it will be very difficult to get consolidation loans in Canada to consolidate student debt.

Consolidation loans in Canada: Can going postal help you reach your financial goals?

Here is a potential new source for debt consolidation loans in Canada. Although it was not set up specifically for consolidation loans, there is no reason why you cannot use the money for that purpose if you are approved.

There is a new loan program offered by Canada Post which is designed to help people who are struggling financially, especially in rural areas where access to banking institutions is limited. It is called the Canada Post MyMoney™ Loan product. The idea is that you get a loan that’s based on how much you can afford to pay back, what you need the money for, and how likely you are to repay it.

The initiative is part of Canada Post’s commitment to helping Canadians manage their finances better. Their goal is to provide easy access to financial services and products that can help people save time and money.

To have your loan application considered, you have to be either a Canadian citizen or a Permanent Resident. You must be no younger than 18 years of age and you need to have annual earnings of a minimum of $1,000. Additionally, you need to not have been bankrupt within the 2 years before applying for the loan or had any of your financial debts handed off to a collection agency within the year before applying. They will of course also do a credit check on you.

debt consolidation loans in canada

In order to receive your loan proceeds, you must have a chequing or interest-bearing account with a Canadian financial institution in your own name. Borrowers of MyMoney™ loans are not required to offer any security against assets, in contrast to secured loans from banks and credit unions. Instead, applicants need only provide proof of identity, employment history and income. Both variable and fixed-rate installment loans are offered. The actual lender is TD Bank.

Consolidation loans in Canada: Other financial debt loan consolidation choices

You may not want to take on more debt to pay off your current debt. I don’t blame you and I get it. Or you may have been denied a debt consolidation loan. Here are some other options for consolidating your debt:

Balance Transfer Credit Cards

A balance transfer is simply when you move the balance of one credit card over to another credit card. For example, if you have a balance of $5,000 on your Mastercard, you can transfer that balance to a new Visa account that offers you 0% interest for 1 year on all balance transfers.

When you switch, you won’t have to pay interest charges for 12 months. After that, you’ll need to pay off the balance in full or start making payments on the balance transferred. Of course, you’ll still accrue interest after the interest-free period on the remaining balance.

Consolidation loans in Canada: Credit counselling

Credit counselling is a service that helps individuals to manage their finances and improve their financial situation. It can be done with a range of techniques, including budgeting, negotiating with creditors, setting up a plan to repay debt and monitoring actual behaviour vs. the plan.

Credit counselling can be an excellent way for individuals to take control of their financial obligations. It can help them create a plan to settle their debt, and provide them with the tools and knowledge they need to maintain financial literacy in the future.

There are many different credit counselling services available to choose from. You should select a community-based service to avoid being charged any fees. Be sure to stay away from any counselling service that charges fees, as this will only add to your expenses when trying to reduce debt.

Consolidation loans in Canada: Debt help is available with a financial restructuring program

Financial restructuring is a complicated and difficult procedure, however, it likewise provides individuals as well as businesses with a new beginning and a brand-new lease on life. Selecting to reorganize your finances with the help of a licensed insolvency trustee will certainly have temporary challenges, but can ultimately provide you with financial relief and a fresh start.

If you are considering financial restructuring, we urge you to consult with a licensed insolvency trustee to discuss your options. We can help you understand all of your options and work with you to develop a plan that is in your best interests.

Trustees are experienced in all aspects of financial restructuring and can supply you with the information and assistance you require to make the very best decision for your situation.

The most well-known financial restructuring tool for individuals is the consumer proposal. For mid-size companies and individuals with larger debt, it is a Division I proposal. For companies with debts greater than $5 million, restructuring is accomplished through the use of the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act.

Here is the best part. You should consider financial restructuring as getting an interest-free loan to pay off all your debts for a fraction of what you owe. I am qualified and experienced in all forms of financial restructuring, can explain this concept to you and am always available to answer any of your questions.

Consolidation loans in Canada: Before making a decision on your financial life needs – Call me

I hope that you found this consolidation loans in Canada Brandon’s Blog informative. If you’re sick and tired of carrying the burden of debt and ready to live a much better life, we can assist. We know exactly how it really feels to be in debt as well as feel like you’re never going to get ahead. We have actually helped lots of people and businesses that were in your position reach financial stability, so we understand it’s feasible for you to prosper in your objective of ending up being debt-free. Nevertheless, it will certainly require some work on your part. We’ll be right here to assist you with every action necessary.

The financial restructuring process is complex. The Ira Smith Team understands how to do a complex restructuring. However, more importantly, we understand the needs of the entrepreneur or the person who has too many personal unsecured debts, Credit card debt, income tax debt liability, unsecured loans or personal obligations from the running of your company or from being a business owner. These are all types of debt we can help you eliminate. We are aware of your financial difficulties and understand your concerns. Filing bankruptcy is the last option we explore only after we have exhausted all other options to avoid bankruptcy, such as financial restructuring through a debt repayment plan.

It is not your fault that you are in this situation. You have been only shown the old ways that do not work anymore. The Ira Smith Team uses new modern ways to give you the best management advice to get you out of your outstanding debt troubles while avoiding bankruptcy. We can get you debt relief freedom.

The stress placed upon you is huge. We understand your pain points. We are sympathetic to the financial difficulties you are experiencing and would like to help alleviate your concerns. We want to lighten your load by coming up with a debt settlement plan crafted just for you.

We realize that people and businesses in financial difficulty need practical advice and a workable solution in an easy-to-understand financial plan. The Ira Smith Team knows that not everyone has to file for bankruptcy in Canada. Most of our clients never do, as we are familiar with alternatives to bankruptcy. We assist many people in finding the relief they need.

Call or email us. We would be happy to give you a no-cost initial consultation. We can find you the perfect solution to tailor a new debt restructuring procedure specifically for you, based on your unique economic situation and needs. We provide a full range of services to people and companies. If any of this sounds familiar to you and you’re serious about finding a solution, let us know. We will get you back to living a happy life, whether or not there is an economic recession in Canada.

Call us now for a no-cost initial consultation. We are licensed professionals.debt consolidation loans in canada

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DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CONSUMER PROPOSAL AND BANKRUPTCY: THE PROVEN CANADIAN WAY TO GET DEBT FREE

difference between consumer proposal and bankruptcy
difference between consumer proposal and bankruptcy

We hope that you and your family are safe, healthy and secure during this COVID-19 pandemic.

Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. is absolutely operational and Ira, in addition to Brandon Smith, is readily available for a telephone consultation or video meeting.

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Difference between consumer proposal and bankruptcy: Know your options

Regular readers of my Brandon Blog know that there are a lot of steps you need to go through to financially reorganize your life. I have written before different blogs on various aspects of both consumer proposals and bankruptcy. The purpose of this Brandon blog is to discuss in one place, the difference between consumer proposal and bankruptcy.

Many people opt for one of these options because life has thrown them a curveball, they no longer have the cash flow to pay off their debts and want to start fresh. There are some great benefits to filing bankruptcy. They include eliminating creditors and debts, getting control over your personal finances, and having a stress-free life, Starting Over, Starting Now. But if you’re considering a first-time bankruptcy, or the bankruptcy option even if you are familiar with the Canadian bankruptcy process from a prior time, you should consider the pros and cons of a consumer proposal, the only government-approved debt settlement plan in Canada. It will be good for you to know the options that I explain below.

Consolidation loans vs consumer proposals

What’s the distinction between a consumer proposal and a debt consolidation loan? The consumer proposal process is an insolvency procedure that allows you to resolve all the amounts you owe to your unsecured creditors via an arrangement with your creditors. It does this without needing you to file bankruptcy. A consumer proposal can only be carried out by a licensed insolvency trustee. A consumer proposal allows you to get rid of all the amount owed by repaying only a part of your financial obligations over time.

A consolidation loan means that you still have sufficient assets and income and a good enough credit score, in order to borrow the total amount you owe. The loan must carry an interest rate lower, and hopefully much lower, than the average interest rate of your combined total debt. You use the loan proceeds to repay 100% of your debts. You now have only one loan with a monthly payment you can afford. Taking out a consolidation loan is not an insolvency process.

difference between consumer proposal and bankruptcy
difference between consumer proposal and bankruptcy

The main difference between consumer proposal and bankruptcy

The consumer proposal is a fundamental part of our personal insolvency system. It is an insolvency procedure controlled by the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act (Canada) (BIA) that allows individuals who owe $250,000 or less (not including any financial debts secured against their principal home). It permits you to pay a portion of your financial debts with time, yet eliminate all of them if fully executed. It is an alternative to declaring bankruptcy. It is an alternative to bankruptcy.

Bankruptcy is also a fundamental part of our insolvency system under the BIA. However, rather than restructuring, in personal bankruptcy, the person surrenders all of their non-exempt assets to the licensed insolvency trustee for the benefit of the person’s creditors. Once the bankrupt person has fulfilled all of their duties, they are entitled to receive a discharge from bankruptcy, subject to the Trustee or a creditor opposing it.

Personal bankruptcy involves the liquidation of the bankrupt’s assets in return for the eventual elimination of their unsecured debts. It is not considered a restructuring like a consumer proposal is.

Difference between consumer proposal and bankruptcy: The process of filing a consumer proposal vs bankruptcy

You start by talking to a Trustee who will provide you basic guidance on both a consumer proposal and also bankruptcy. The Trustee will likewise inform you specifically just how each process functions. If at the end of that discussion you inform the licensed bankruptcy trustee that you really feel good in wanting to take the next steps with them, the Trustee will provide you with their intake form. When the form is completed, you send it to the Trustee, including supplying any kind of backup documents asked for, the Trustee can then provide you advice for your unique financial difficulties.

If you choose a consumer proposal, the licensed insolvency trustee will prepare the necessary filing documents for you to sign. This includes assisting you with preparing the best possible proposal that works for both you and your creditors. You then meet with the Trustee to sign the documents. The Trustee then files the documents electronically with the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy (OSB). The OSB then issues the Certificate evidencing the filing and the formal process begins.

After seeing your completed intake sheet, the Trustee will advise on whether or not a consumer proposal would work for you, or if your best or only option is filing for bankruptcy. Similarly, in bankruptcy filings, the Trustee prepares all the required filing documents for your signature. The Trustee explains all of them to you, you sign them and the Trustee then electronically files the filing documents with the OSB. The OSB then issues its Certificate evidencing the bankruptcy and that formal process begins.

You initially meet with the licensed bankruptcy trustee, in-person, by video or phone, to share details of your personal situation, and working together, you determine whether a consumer proposal, an alternative to filing bankruptcy, or personal bankruptcy is the best option for you. With COVID-19, we have been holding all of our no-cost consultations and meetings by phone and video. We can do the sign-up process by video and email. We have found this is very convenient for our clients as they are not required to take the time to attend our office in person.

As you can see, the process of filing a consumer proposal vs bankruptcy is not that different. For filing, there is not really a difference between consumer proposal and bankruptcy.

difference between consumer proposal and bankruptcy
difference between consumer proposal and bankruptcy

Major difference between consumer proposal and bankruptcy

Is there a major difference between consumer proposals and bankruptcy? Yes. So far in this discussion, there have not really been major differences. But there really are as the consumer proposal is akin to filing for bankruptcy protection while the other is bankruptcy. Both provide legal protection from creditors. But a consumer proposal gives a person what the media calls filing for bankruptcy protection. When you file for bankruptcy, that calls for the liquidation of non-exempt assets.

Both bankruptcy and a consumer proposal can be excellent options for somebody who is experiencing a challenging financial position. A consumer proposal is an excellent choice for individuals who have the ability to make monthly payments to their creditors totalling less than the amount they owe, yet eliminating all their debts, while keeping the equity they have in assets they wish to keep. Bankruptcy is an excellent choice for those who are bewildered by their financial obligations, and who don’t have a consistent income, making it actually hard or impossible to manage making payments at any level to their creditors.

While both bankruptcy, as well as a consumer proposal, can supply a financial clean slate, there are a few vital distinctions.

In a consumer proposal, you normally get to keep all of your assets. In a bankruptcy, if you have equity in assets that you want to keep, you or someone friendly to you has to pay that equity to your Trustee for the benefit of your creditors. Otherwise, you need to surrender all non-exempt assets to the Trustee for the Trustee to sell them and then put the cash towards the claims of your creditors. The assets covered by your bankruptcy exemptions do not need to be surrendered.

In bankruptcy, you also have the issue of needing to obtain your bankruptcy discharge. If either the Trustee or one or more creditors object to your discharge, then you will not get your automatic bankruptcy discharge and you will have a discharge hearing in Court. You may also be subject to surplus income payments in a bankruptcy, which you will need to make to your Trustee (21 months for a first time bankrupt, 36 months for a second time or more bankruptcy).

The amount to offer your creditors in a consumer proposal has to be a better amount than they would receive from your bankruptcy. After doing the calculations I spoke about above, including any surplus income obligation, you will better understand what amount needs to be offered to your creditors.

Another difference between consumer proposal and bankruptcy is that there is a benefit of a consumer proposal in that you can spread the monthly payments for the amount determined over a term of up to 60 months, interest-free. In a bankruptcy, you are typically required to make any required payments over the term of your bankruptcy, which is much shorter than in a proposal. Therefore the consumer proposal allows you to term out a slightly higher settlement over a longer period of time. This makes the monthly repayment less complicated on your cash flow as well as your budget plan.

Once your consumer proposal is (deemed) accepted by the creditors and (deemed) approved by the Court, you just need to make your promised monthly payments to the Trustee. The Trustee handles making payments at regular intervals to your creditors. Once you have completed the payment promised under the consumer proposal, you receive your Certificate from the Trustee showing that you completed the consumer proposal. That is it. No discharge hearing can be opposed and no extra surplus income payments. It is already accounted for in the amount offered to your creditors in your consumer proposal.

The cost difference between consumer proposal and bankruptcy

When doing a consumer proposal, the fee of the licensed insolvency trustee is included in the payment you negotiate with your creditors. As I mentioned above, the calculation of what to offer in a consumer proposal does not include what the fee and costs are. Rather, it is compared to what the unsecured creditors can expect in bankruptcy.

However, if you were to file bankruptcy, the fee is based on the surplus income you may have to pay (based upon a criterion that includes income and family size) and also any assets that you are required to assign over to the Trustee. You might also have to make month-to-month contributions to cover the fee and costs if your income and non-exempt assets are insufficient to pay for the bankruptcy proceedings.

If there is no surplus income or assets, you, or someone on your behalf, will need to pay the bankruptcy fee which will be approximately $1,800 plus HST.

difference between consumer proposal and bankruptcy
difference between consumer proposal and bankruptcy

Difference between consumer proposal and bankruptcy: What’s worse? Credit rating impact of a bankruptcy vs consumer proposal

Both a consumer proposal and bankruptcy are insolvency proceedings under the BIA. Therefore both will negatively affect your credit rating. In a consumer proposal, your credit rating will show as an R9 on your credit report while you are making payments. Once you have completed your consumer proposal, your credit rating will be an R7 for 3 years after completion.

For a first-time bankrupt, if you were to file for bankruptcy, your credit report will show an R9 rating for 6-7 years after being discharged.

The difference between consumer proposal and bankruptcy summary

I hope that you found this difference between consumer proposal and bankruptcy Brandon Blog interesting. Problems will arise when you are cash-starved and in debt. There are several insolvency processes available to a person or company with too much debt.

If you are concerned because you or your business are dealing with substantial debt challenges, you need debt help and you assume bankruptcy is your only option, call me.

It is not your fault that you remain in this way. You have actually been only shown the old ways to try to deal with financial issues. These old ways do not work anymore.

The Ira Smith Team utilizes new modern-day ways to get you out of your debt difficulties with debt relief options as alternatives to bankruptcy. We can get you the relief you need and so deserve. Our professional advice will create for you a personalized debt-free plan for you or your company during our no-cost initial consultation.

The tension put upon you is big. We know your discomfort factors. We will check out your entire situation and design a new approach that is as unique as you and your problems; financial and emotional. We will take the weight off of your shoulders and blow away the dark cloud hanging over you. We will design a debt settlement strategy for you. We know that we can help you now.

We understand that people with credit cards maxed out and businesses facing financial issues need a realistic lifeline. There is no “one solution fits all” method with the Ira Smith Team. Not everyone has to file bankruptcy in Canada. The majority of our clients never do as we know the alternatives to bankruptcy. We help many people and companies stay clear of filing an assignment in bankruptcy.

That is why we can establish a new restructuring procedure for paying down debt that will be built just for you. It will be as one-of-a-kind as the economic issues and discomfort you are encountering. If any one of these seems familiar to you and you are serious about getting the solution you need to become debt-free, contact the Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. group today.

Call us now for a no-cost consultation.

We hope that you and your family are safe, healthy and secure during this COVID-19 pandemic.

Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. is absolutely operational and Ira, in addition to Brandon Smith, is readily available for a telephone consultation or video meeting.

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THE CONTROVERSIAL QUEBEC PLAN TO REDUCE CREDIT CARD DEBT IN CANADA

The Ira Smith Team is absolutely operational and Ira, in addition to Brandon Smith, is readily available for a telephone consultation or video meeting.

Stay healthy, well balanced and safe and secure everyone.

Credit card debt in Canada introduction

Yesterday I received my current credit card statement in the mail. I scanned the pages and something on the page titled “Important Changes To Your Credit Card Agreement” caught my eye. The province of Quebec is trying to reduce credit card debt in Canada for its residents. I will explain it in this Brandon’s Blog.

Average Canadian household debt 2020

Credit rating agency Equifax Canada says typical consumer debt boosted 2.7% to get to $72,950 on average per household at the end of 2019. At the end of 2019, TransUnion reported that Canadians charged $100 billion in bank card financial obligations for the first time ever and they’re not done contributing to it. So credit card debt in Canada was certainly out of control then.

I won’t bother quoting what both the Equifax and TransUnion projected as to what would happen to average Canadian household debt in 2020, or about credit card debt in Canada. Suffice to say that in late 2019, an Ipsos poll carried out for Manulife Canada found that 45% of Canadians report spending more than they take home, and also 40% question if they will ever get rid of all of their debt. Nearly half of Canadians are afraid of being indebted for life, and 67% assume everyone is in the very same situation.

In the first quarter of 2020, unemployment was low and the Canadian economy felt like it was in decent shape. Then came the coronavirus pandemic. The fallout from COVID-19 and the shutdown of the Canadian economy have yet to be fully felt. My crystal ball is definitely broken because of it.

Average line of credit debt in Canada

Suffice to say from everything that I have read so far, average Canadian household debt is going up, due mainly to job losses and falling incomes. The Canadian government statistics about Canadians receiving the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) are staggering. As of June 4, 2020, the government has processed applications from 8.4 million Canadians. Overall as of that date, the federal government has paid out $43.5 billion of CERB benefits.

So with close to 9 million people getting CERB payments up until now, lots of Canadians are making a great deal less money than they did two months back. According to Statistics Canada, Canadians earned monthly, on average, $4,383; those on CERB make $2,000 a month. While it’s great to have some cash coming in, that gap (as well as it will certainly be a lot more for some) is likely to be a significant problem for out-of-work Canadians.

The Quebec plan to slow down credit card usage in Canada did not start out being controversial

To understand what additional pressure there will be on Quebeckers come August 1, 2020, we first have to understand the history of the issue. Quebec’s intentions started out being very good, especially for the time it was developed. But, that was then and now is now!

On November 15, 2017, Quebec’s Bill number 134, “An Act mainly to modernize rules relating to consumer credit and to regulate debt settlement service contracts, high-cost credit contracts and loyalty programs”, was enacted. On August 1, 2019, particular elements of this legislation, aimed at trying to suppress charge card financial obligations in Quebec, began. So everyone had advance warning to change their spending ways.

Starting then, new credit card accounts opened required the minimal monthly payment to be upped to 5% of the outstanding balance on those brand-new charge cards. For cards provided prior to August 1, 2019, cardholders could continue to pay a minimum of 2% of the monthly balance. They had until 2025 to start paying the brand-new minimum of 5%. Nonetheless, the minimum monthly payment was gradually being boosted by half a percentage point annually. This starts on August 1, 2020, up till it gets to the five percent level.

At the time, consumer advocates felt that other provinces will be watching carefully what Quebec is doing. The Quebec government certainly thought that credit card debt in Canada was a problem. It wanted to be proactive in dealing with this problem for Quebeckers. If you had to pay more every month on your old debt, hopefully, people would start feeling the pinch and adjust their budgets to spend less using credit cards. That was the theory.

So that was what was printed on my credit card statement. A reminder that if you lived in Quebec and were responsible for repaying the debt on the credit card, the minimum monthly payment was about to increase.

Given the current state of the Canadian economy and people’s personal financial affairs, this requirement in Quebec to pay more every month on your credit card debt cannot be good news.

Total credit card debt in Canada, not monthly payments, is the real problem

This leads to what or who is the real culprit. Quebeckers having to pay more each month as a minimum monthly payment is not the problem. I don’t mean to single out Quebec residents. I only mention them because it is Quebec that enacted the legislation. The real problem is that Canadians’ total credit card debt in Canada is too high and people cannot pay off the balance they charged each month on the due date. So, they are only making minimum monthly payments, while continuing to charge more, to stay alive until the next month.

Increasing minimum monthly payments is not making a plan to be debt-free

High charge card debt is clearly jamming a lot of people. Time will tell just how effective a technique it is to elevate the minimum monthly payment to 5% to tackle outstanding credit card debt. Due to the current situation, it is pointless to start looking at data for the rest of 2020. Hopefully, this year is not indicative of what future years will look like.

In my opinion, it would have been a lot more impressive for Quebec to at the very same time develop online financial education modules for its people. What is truly required is to show people that paying just the minimum monthly balance doesn’t solve their total debt problem.

As I have stated in many of my blogs, to create a real plan to be debt-free, people need to:

Unpaid credit card debt consequences Canada and how to avoid them

Right now, there is an unofficial moratorium on the banks and collection agencies calling people who are delinquent in their credit card payments. All the lenders are treading lightly, given the many problems currently in the Canadian economy. Given all the problems, now may be the best time to try to resolve long outstanding credit card debt issues.

Once things get back to whatever normal is going to look like, lenders and collection agencies will be calling everyone again. If a satisfactory payment plan is not entered into, lenders may sue once the courts open up again. Once a lender gets a judgment against you, they can garnishee your wages or your bank account.

Under the Ontario Wages Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. W.1, a financial institution that has a judgment against you (like a bank or bank card business) can garnishee up to 20% of your net wages (after statutory deductions for taxes, CPP, and EI). Try living with that kind of wage garnishee and/or your bank account frozen.

So anyone with debt problems needs to realistically look at the various solutions that may be available. I have already talked above about how to start tackling debt problems, especially credit card debt in Canada.

Once you have redone your budget, have family buy-in so everyone is onside helping the household and you are following it, there are extra actions that you can take in dealing with your creditors. These steps include:

Negotiating yourself with the credit card company – Right now is the perfect time to negotiate. Lenders are not receiving payments and many have deferral programs set up. If you have cash on hand, now is the perfect time to approach a lender and offer a discounted amount that you can afford to pay if they agree. Make sure you have properly budgeted so that if you pay that cash out now, you can still survive until your work and income returns back to what it was pre-pandemic.

Non-profit credit counselling agency help – If you don’t feel you can negotiate on your own, go to a community non-profit credit counselling agency. They can review your budget to make sure that it is realistic and give you additional help. They can also try to strike a deal with your creditors for you to either pay the full balance out over time without additional interest or penalties or, a reduced payout now.

Consolidation loan – If you are working from home and still have all your income, a decent credit rating and you can get a loan to consolidate your debts to pay them out, that has many benefits. The issue is that the annual interest rate charged on the consolidation loan must be significantly less than the average interest rate you are paying on your debts. Now you can pay off either your total debt, or the lower negotiated balance, and then just have the lower interest rate one loan to repay.

This can be done under either the self-negotiating method or if you are using a not for profit local credit counselling agency to help you. Either way, stay away from payday loan lenders.

Consult with a licensed insolvency trustee (formerly called a bankruptcy trustee) – Whether things are too far gone to use any of the above methods, or you just want to know what all of your options are, consult with a licensed insolvency trustee to determine how best to deal with your credit card debt in Canada.

Most licensed insolvency trustees, including my Firm, provide a no-cost initial consultation. I can go over with you all of your options. We will discuss all that I have already mentioned, plus the concepts of a consumer proposal, Division I Proposal and bankruptcy. I will give you the pros and cons of each, give you my best recommendation and then you will have all the information you need to decide.

Credit card debt in Canada summary

The Ira Smith Team family hopes that you and your family members are remaining secure, healthy and well-balanced. Our hearts go out to every person that has been affected either via misfortune or inconvenience.

I hope you have found this credit card debt in Canada Brandon’s Blog helpful. Quebec’s original plan for helping its residents reduce credit card debt in Canada did not start out to be controversial. It was designed to get Quebeckers to think about how they were getting into credit card debt and to force them to work into their budget a larger monthly minimum payment. The aim was to curb out of control spiralling credit card debt. The COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting economic shutdown combined with the upcoming August 1 changes will no doubt make things harder for Quebeckers only able to make minimum monthly payments on their credit card balances.

We all must help each other to stop the spread of the coronavirus. Social distancing and self-quarantining are sacrifices that are not optional. Families are literally separated from each other. We look forward to the time when life can return to something near to typical and we can all be together once again.

Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. has constantly used clean, safe and secure ways in our professional firm and we continue to do so.

Income, revenue and cash flow shortages are critical issues facing entrepreneurs, their companies and individual Canadians. This is especially true these days.

If anyone needs our assistance for debt relief Canada COVID, or you just need some answers for questions that are bothering you, feel confident that Ira or Brandon can still assist you. Telephone consultations and/or virtual conferences are readily available for anyone feeling the need to discuss their personal or company situation.

The Ira Smith Team is absolutely operational and Ira, in addition to Brandon Smith, is readily available for a telephone consultation or video meeting.

credit card debt in canada
credit card debt in canada

Stay healthy, well balanced and safe and secure everyone.

 

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