Categories
Brandon Blog Post

PROOF OF CLAIM FORM 31: ESSENTIAL TIPS TO SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETE THE NEW CANADIAN BANKRUPTCY FORM 31

Form 31 Proof of Claim Introduction

The Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy (OSB) published several amended Forms under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act (Canada) (BIA) to promote a more efficient and effective insolvency system, removing some outdated elements and ensuring better data integrity for all stakeholders. These amended Forms were originally set to come into force on July 15, 2024. One of those new forms is the Form 31 proof of claim. This morning, the OSB announced that the effective date has now been pushed back to September 16, 2024.

In this Brandon’s Blog, given the new proof of claim form coming into use effective July 15, I feel I need to update my October 2018 blog titled: FORM 31 PROOF OF CLAIM: HOW TO PROPERLY COMPLETE THE PROOF OF CLAIM. I will compare the new form to the old one as there are substantial changes and advise on how it should be properly completed as we walk through the new form.

Background Information on Form 31 Proof of Claim

Purpose of Form 31 Proof of Claim

Claims of creditors in bankruptcy or restructuring proposal cases are made on a very specific proof of claim form. The purpose of the form is to furnish information about the claim by the creditor against the debtor. It asks for such things as the contact details of the creditor and permission to represent it if it is a corporate body. Additionally, there are interrogatives on debt aspects like the amount due and supporting papers.

The types of claims section encompasses unsecured claims, lessor claims, secured claims, farm or wage earner claims, plan administrator’s claims, director’s liability claims and client claims against their bankrupt securities dealer.

It also inquires whether or not there has been any relationship between the debtor’s recent transactions with the creditor such as recent payments.

One can obtain information regarding an insolvent person’s financial condition and their application for discharge from bankruptcy. There is a caution at the end of this document concerning penalties for making fake claims or giving false statements. The creditor must sign it himself or through the representative. If an affidavit is attached thereto, then it must be sworn by a person who is authorized by law to administer oaths.

Importance of Properly Completing Form 31

The proper completion of Form 31, Proof of Claim, is crucial in the claims process for creditors with substantiated claims. This form serves as a critical document for creditors looking to assert and potentially recover owed debts. Providing accurate and thorough information on this form is essential for creditors to establish a strong foundation for their claims.

Failure to provide complete or accurate information on Form 31 can lead to delays, rejections, or the disqualification of the claim. Therefore, it is imperative for creditors to closely follow the instructions and guidelines stipulated in Form 31. By doing so, creditors can ensure that their claims are accurately documented and processed efficiently within the specified timelines.picture of woman holding a pen about to complete the form 31 proof of claim in a Canadian bankruptcy proceeding to register her claim with the licensed insolvency trustee

Section 1: Understanding the Basics of Form 31 Proof of Claim

Definition of Provable Claim

Section 2 of the BIA contains the definitions. In that section, a provable claim is defined:

includes any claim or liability provable in proceedings under this Act by a creditor

What does this mean? it means that a provable claim refers to a debt or obligation owed by a debtor that can be verified and substantiated through documentary evidence. For a claim to be considered provable, it must meet certain criteria established by the Act, including an amount that can be determined, is due and payable at the time of the bankruptcy or within a reasonable period after that, and not be contingent on some other event or unliquidated.

Difference Between Provable and Unliquidated Claims

An unliquidated claim under the BIA refers to a claim for a specific amount of money that has not yet been determined or quantified. This type of claim typically arises when the exact amount owed to a creditor is uncertain or requires further investigation to establish.

In the context of bankruptcy proceedings, unliquidated claims present a challenge as they may complicate the distribution of assets to creditors. To address this issue, mechanisms for resolving unliquidated claims include negotiations, mediation, a disallowance of the claim by the licensed insolvency trustee (formerly known as a bankruptcy trustee) (the “Trustee”) or court proceedings to determine the appropriate amount owed.

Properly handling unliquidated claims is essential for ensuring fair and efficient bankruptcy proceedings under Canadian law.

Identifying False Claims

Ensuring the validity of claims in Canadian bankruptcy proceedings is a crucial element in safeguarding the integrity of the bankruptcy system. Baseless claims hinder the fair distribution of assets to rightful creditors and undermine confidence in the process. The proliferation of meritless claims can result in delays, increased expenses, and potential financial harm to creditors.

It is essential for Trustees to thoroughly evaluate the authenticity of claims to prevent manipulation and dishonesty. Implementing rigorous verification procedures and penalties for unsubstantiated claims are essential strategies for upholding the fairness and transparency of Canadian bankruptcy proceedings.

Section 2: Required Information for Completing Form 31 Proof of Claim

Completing and returning a Form 31 proof of claim is an important phase in the bankruptcy process. They are one of the documents included with the notice of bankruptcy documents sent out by the Trustee to formally notify the creditors of the bankruptcy.

Personal Details of the Creditor

For proof of claim to be properly completed, the creditor must furnish their contact information, encompassing their mailing address, fax number, and email address. Moreover, the creditor must substantiate their legitimacy as a creditor of the debtor and exhibit a thorough understanding of all pertinent details related to the claim. This takes you from the top of the new Form 31 proof of claim down to numbered paragraph #2.

Details of the Claim

It is incumbent upon the creditor to clearly outline the total sum of the outstanding debt owed by the debtor, in addition to any potential counterclaims, accompanied by relevant documentation or substantiating evidence. The new proof of claim form now requires a creditor to verify that the debt remains within the statutory limitations stipulated by the pertinent provincial laws and regulations. In other words, the claim is not statute-barred.

Those details are covered by paragraphs 3 through 5 of the form.

Priority of the Claim

Paragraph 6 is where, as an unsecured creditor, you need to insert the amount for what you believe to be your claim provable in the actual restructuring proposal to creditors or bankruptcy of the person or company. You must also declare whether you do or do not claim a right to a priority. If you do not, this means that you are an ordinary unsecured creditor.

If you are claiming a right to a priority claim as an unsecured creditor, you are stating that you are entitled to a priority of payment ahead of the ordinary unsecured creditors. The new Form 31 proof of claim requires you to identify what type of priority you are claiming.

The various types of unsecured claims that can have priority over ordinary unsecured claims, which are called preferred claims, are, in order of priority:

  • For a deceased bankrupt, reasonable funeral and testamentary costs.
  • The claims for wages by a wage earner employee for unpaid wage claims and certain other amounts treated like remuneration for services rendered during the period beginning on the day that is six months before the date of the initial bankruptcy event or the first day on which there was a receiver. This claim is limited to a maximum payment of $2,000, less any amounts paid for their services by the licensed insolvency trustee.
  • Any shortfall to a secured creditor as a result of the claim for employees’ priority above.
  • Any shortfall to a secured creditor as a result of the claim of employees paid out for unpaid amounts regarding prescribed pension plans.
  • Alimony or support payments payable by the bankrupt person under either a court order or an agreement made before the date of the initial bankruptcy event.
  • municipal taxes levied against a bankrupt’s real property within the two years immediately preceding the bankruptcy not registered as a lien against the property. This preferred claim cannot exceed the value of the bankrupt’s interest in the property.
  • A lessor for rent arrears for no more than 3 months before the date of bankruptcy and only if stipulated in the lease, a claim for accelerated rent for no more than an additional 3 months. This claim is limited to the amount realized by the Trustee from the property of the bankrupt on those premises. Further, any payment made by the licensed insolvency trustee for accelerated rent shall be credited against any amount the Trustee may owe the landlord for the Trustee’s occupation of those leased premises.
  • One bill of costs of a lawyer for a judgment creditor who is the first to have garnished or otherwise executed against the property of the bankrupt, but only to a maximum of the amount obtained by the Trustee from the realization of assets from the sale of such property.
  • Certain government debts.
  • Claims from injuries to employees of the bankrupt where workers’ compensation legislation does not apply, but only if there is an insurer or surety guaranteeing damages from injuries and up to the maximum guaranteed.picture of woman holding a pen about to complete the form 31 proof of claim in a Canadian bankruptcy proceeding to register her claim with the licensed insolvency trustee

Section 3: Additional Considerations for Completing Form 31 Proof of Claim

There are also specialized claims that a creditor may qualify for.

A Claim of Lessor For Disclaimer of a Lease

In a corporate restructuring under the Proposal provisions of the BIA, the insolvent company can disclaim or resiliate a commercial lease. The insolvent debtor must be able to show that it cannot successfully restructure if it still has to be responsible for that commercial lease. Upon the disclaiming or resiliation of the commercial lease, the landlord is allowed to calculate its claim using the formula and provisions laid out in the BIA.

Valuing a Secured Claim

Secured creditors have the option, though not a mandatory requirement unless stipulated by the licensed insolvency trustee, to file their claim. This process involves the secured creditor completing the proof of claim form, where they estimate the value of the assets linked to their security. Any outstanding amount owed to the creditor beyond the assets’ value is also specified on the proof of claim, thereby converting it into an unsecured claim.

Secured creditors must exercise caution when determining the value of their secured claim. As per subsection 128(3) of the BIA, a Trustee may opt to redeem a security by reimbursing the secured creditor with the security’s assessed value, as indicated by the secured creditor in the proof of claim. A licensed insolvency trustee would only proceed with redemption if they ascertain that the actual value of the assets surpasses the value assigned by the secured creditor to its security.

Moreover, a Trustee must seek an independent legal opinion on the security documents. That is why a Trustee will always ask for proof of security.

Claim by Farmer, Fisherman or Aquaculturist

Claims of farmers, fishermen, and aquaculturists are granted specific privileges for claims under the BIA legislation. This particular category of creditors is entitled to certain rights. In addition to the standard revindication rights, farmers, fishermen, and aquaculturists have a 30-day window following the initiation of bankruptcy proceedings or the appointment of a receiver to submit their claim for products supplied within 15 days before the bankruptcy event. Once the claim is successfully filed, these creditors are granted a primary lien on all the inventory of the insolvent debtor, excluding any inventory that may be subject to another party’s repossession rights.

Claim by Pension Plan for the unpaid amount

I alluded to claims in respect of an unpaid pension amount above. In 2008 the BIA was amended in reaction to several high-profile corporate restructurings and bankruptcies where there were pension payment amounts deducted from employee wages but not remitted to the pension plan. When the employer went bankrupt, the employees’ pension entitlement was negatively affected (think Sears Canada). Pension entitlement is an important component of the overall employees’ remuneration.

Therefore, Parliament mandated a reform where a super-priority is created for claims for unremitted pension contributions outstanding when an employer becomes bankrupt. The kinds of amounts given this super-priority are pension payments deducted from an employee’s wages but not remitted to the pension plan administrator, amounts owed by the employer for the cost of benefits paid by the pension plan and employer contributions to a defined benefit pension plan. What is excluded from this super-priority is any amount needed to reduce an unfunded pension liability.

Claims Against Directors

This kind of claim comes into play when a BIA corporate restructuring proposal provides for the compromise of claims against directors. The kind of claims against directors that a corporate proposal can compromise must have a very specific set of characteristics:

  1. A claim against directors is being compromised in the corporate Proposal.
  2. Arose before the filing of the Notice of Intention To Make A Proposal or the Proposal itself.
  3. Relate to corporate obligations that are director liabilities by operation of law.

They do not include any corporate liabilities that one or more directors may have personally guaranteed as individuals.

Claim of a Customer of a Bankrupt Securities Firm

The BIA delineates precise protocols for the allocation and distribution of cash and securities within a securities firm customer pool fund. The intricacies of this process are highly technical and exceed the purview of this blog post on completing a Form 31 proof of claim. It is essential to understand that distinct provisions are in place for companies of this nature that have filed for bankruptcy.

Complicated or Contingent Claims

There are a variety of claims that by their very nature, produce complications. Just because a claim might be complicated, it does not mean the proof of claim should not be fully completed and filed with the Trustee. It also does not mean that the licensed insolvency trustee does not have to review it to determine if it is admissible or not.

Examples of complicated claims are unliquidated claims discussed above and contingent claims. In a Canadian insolvency case, a contingent claim is a claim that is not yet due and payable but may become due and payable in the future. Contingent claims are often referred to as “contingent debts” or “contingent liabilities.”

A contingent claim may arise in various situations, such as:

  1. A lawsuit or legal action that has not yet been resolved, but may result in a payment or settlement in the future.
  2. A contract or agreement that provides for payment or performance in the future, but only if certain conditions are met.
  3. A guarantee or indemnity that may become payable in the future if a specific event occurs.

When a contingent claim is filed in a bankruptcy or proposal case, the licensed insolvency trustee must handle it in a specific manner. Here are the key steps:

  1. Initial Review: The Trustee reviews the contingent claim to determine its validity and the likelihood of it becoming due and payable in the future.
  2. Assessment of Likelihood of Payment: The Trustee assesses the likelihood of the contingent claim becoming due and payable, considering factors such as the strength of the underlying legal claim, the likelihood of a settlement or judgment, and the potential for future payments or performance.
  3. Valuation of the Claim: The Trustee values the contingent claim, taking into account the likelihood of payment and the potential amount of the payment.
  4. Inclusion in the Statement of Affairs: The Trustee should include a contingent claim in the sworn Statement of Affairs, which is the document that outlines the insolvent debtor’s assets, liabilities, and financial affairs. The creditor would be listed as a contingent creditor. Because at this stage the Trustee has not received a proof of claim to review, it is wise to list the amount of this contingent debt either as “unknown” or with a value of just $1.
  5. Monitoring and Follow-up: The Trustee monitors the contingent claim and follows up with the creditor to ensure that any future payments or performance are made following the terms of the agreement or contract.
  6. Distribution of Funds: If the contingent claim becomes due and payable in a specific amount and the creditor has filed the proof of claim properly, the Trustee needs to include the valued claim in calculating a distribution to the unsecured creditors.

Creditors are required to furnish the licensed insolvency trustee with all essential documentation and information to substantiate their contingent claim. Subsequently, the Trustee will work with the creditor to ensure the appropriate handling of the claim.

Section 4: Procedural Requirements for Submitting Form 31 Proof of Claim

As a creditor, it’s crucial to understand the procedural requirements for submitting a Form 31 Proof of Claim in a Canadian insolvency case. In this section, we’ll delve into the key issues that creditors should be aware of when submitting their Proof of Claim.

Deadline for Submitting Proof of Claim

The deadline for submitting a proof of claim is a critical aspect of the insolvency process. In Canada, creditors have a specific timeframe to file their proof of claim. Until a creditor files a proof of claim with the Trustee, the creditor cannot participate in the insolvency process. Creditors should ensure they submit their proof of claim well within the deadline to avoid any potential issues.

The First Meeting of Creditors in bankruptcy or the Meeting of Creditors in a restructuring proposal takes place 21 days after the date of filing. If a creditor who has a provable claim wishes to vote at the meeting of creditors, then it is important to have filed the fully completed proof of claim, with all supporting backup documentation, in time for the Trustee to be able to review it.

At the meeting of creditors, it is up to the meeting chair to admit or disallow any claim for voting purposes. In a bankruptcy, the creditors vote on several matters, including the appointment of Inspectors. The Meeting of Inspectors normally immediately follows the meeting of creditors. So if a creditor wishes to nominate an Inspector, it has to have filed its claim to be able to vote. To be able to vote for or against a consumer proposal or corporate restructuring proposal, the proof of claim must be filed.

The only other real deadline to file a proof of claim is before the Trustee is going to make a distribution. A Trustee must send each creditor listed on the Statement of Affairs who has not yet filed a proof of claim notice to file a claim before making a final distribution. That notice will have a deadline in it. If the creditor misses that deadline then they are not entitled to receive any dividend from the insolvency estate.

Properly Filing the Form 31

Properly filing the Form 31 proof of claim is a critical step. Creditors must ensure they complete the form accurately and thoroughly, providing all necessary information, including the amount of the debt, the date the debt was incurred, and any relevant documentation. It’s also essential to sign and date the form, as well as attach any supporting documentation. Creditors should also ensure they file the form with the correct office, as specified in the bankruptcy notice.

Notice of IntentionTo Make A Proposal

In some cases, the insolvent individual or corporation may file a Notice of Intention To Make A Proposal, which provides creditors with advance notice of the impending restructuring proposal. At the Notice of Intention stage, there is not a specific deadline for submitting a proof of claim. A proof of claim is not sent out at this notice stage. After the Proposal is filed and the Trustee sends out the Proposal package to the known creditors, in that package the proof of claim form 31 is provided. Creditors should carefully review the Proposal package and ensure they submit their proof of claim by the specified deadline.

I was involved some time ago in a corporate restructuring case where a financial institution creditor filed a proof of claim and a voting letter using their form at the notice of intention stage. The form was improperly completed and I warned the creditor that its proof of claim was not being accepted and that they must file a new one, properly and fully completed, after they receive the Proposal package from our Firm.

They ignored my warnings and did not do so. I therefore disallowed their claim which meant their vote did not count. They appealed my decision to the Court. The Court agreed with the Trustee. Not only did their vote not count, but because they lost the appeal, they also had to pay our lawyer’s costs!

Notice of Bankruptcy Process

The bankruptcy notification is a crucial document that provides creditors with essential information about the bankruptcy proceedings, including the timeline for submitting a proof of claim. This notification is distributed by the licensed insolvency trustee managing the bankruptcy process and offers creditors a detailed overview of the procedures involved, including the deadline for submitting proof of claims.

To ensure the accurate and complete submission of the claim form, it is advisable to follow the guidelines outlined below in Section 5. Submitting a Form 31 proof of claim is a critical aspect of the bankruptcy process. Creditors must meet the submission deadline, correctly file the form, and provide all necessary information. Understanding the procedural requirements for submitting a proof of claim helps creditors protect their rights and ensure their interests are properly represented throughout the process.picture of woman holding a pen about to complete the form 31 proof of claim in a Canadian bankruptcy proceeding to register her claim with the licensed insolvency trustee

Section 5: Ensuring Accuracy in Completing Form 31 Proof of Claim – A Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a Proof of Claim

As a creditor, it’s essential to know how to complete Form 31, also known as the Proof of Claim, when dealing with bankruptcy or proposal proceedings. The only way for creditor claims to be registered properly is through the filing of a properly and fully completed proof of claim form.

Let me walk you through the step-by-step process of filling out this crucial document.

Step 1: Gather Required Information

Before starting to fill out Form 31, make sure you have the following information readily available:

  • The name of the bankrupt individual or corporation
  • The amount of the debt owed to you
  • The date the debt was incurred
  • Any relevant documentation, such as invoices or contracts

Step 2: Complete the Header Information

Begin by filling out the header section of the form, which includes:

  • The name of the bankrupt individual or corporation
  • The file number assigned to the bankruptcy proceeding

Step 3: Furnish Creditor Details

In this step, kindly provide the following details as the creditor:

  • Your full name and mailing address
  • Your business name and registered address (if applicable)
  • Your contact information, including phone number and email address

Step 4: Specify the Debt

Specify the debt you’re claiming:

  • The amount of the debt owed to you
  • The date the debt was incurred
  • A brief description of the debt, including any relevant details
  • Completing whether or not you are a secured, claiming a priority or an ordinary unsecured creditor
  • Make sure that you include the entire claim

Step 5: Provide Supporting Documentation

Attach any relevant documentation to support your claim, such as:

  • Invoices or receipts
  • Contracts or agreements
  • Bank statements or other financial records

Step 6: Sign and Date the Form

Once you’ve completed the form, including completing the proxy form section if the creditor is a corporation, sign and date it in the designated areas.

Step 7: File the Form

Submit the completed Form 31 to the professional trustee administering the bankruptcy, along with any supporting documentation. You can submit the proof of claim by fax, email, snail mail or delivery. The most important reason of course is that if there is going to be a distribution to the creditors, you want to make sure that you have submitted your claim for dividend purposes.

Additional Tips and Reminders

  • Ensure to maintain a copy of the completed form for your records.
  • If you’re unsure about any part of the process, consider consulting with a bankruptcy lawyer or the Trustee handling the bankruptcy case . In case of any uncertainties regarding any aspect of the process, it is advisable to seek advice from a bankruptcy lawyer or the Trustee overseeing the bankruptcy case.
  • File your claim on time to safeguard your rights as a creditor.

By adhering to these guidelines and furnishing precise information, you will complete Form 31 and safeguard your creditor rights throughout the bankruptcy or restructuring proceedings.

Section 6: Common Mistakes to Avoid when Completing Form 31 Proof of Claim

When engaging in the intricate process of submitting a proof of claim to the Trustee, it is imperative to steer clear of common errors that may result in delays, rejections, or potential dismissal of your claim. This section will outline three crucial errors to avoid when completing Form 31 for the proof of claim.

  • Providing incomplete or inaccurate information on your proof of claim: This can significantly hinder the processing of your claim or result in its rejection. To mitigate this risk, it is crucial to take the following steps:

By paying close attention to these details, you can enhance the accuracy and efficiency of your claim submission process.

  • Failure to include supporting documentation: This is a significant oversight that can result in the rejection or delay of your claim. To mitigate this risk, it is imperative to adhere to the following guidelines:
  • Missed Deadlines for Submission: Be sure to allocate extra time for any unforeseen delays or complications when submitting your proof of claim before the deadline. To minimize last-minute stress, make sure to submit your claim well ahead of the due date. By being proactive and avoiding these typical errors, you can streamline the filing process and increase your chances of a successful outcome. Remember to thoroughly review your details, attach all necessary documentation, and submit your claim with ample time to spare. Finally, missing deadlines for submitting your proof of claim can have severe consequences, including dismissal of your claim.

To ensure a successful filing process, it’s important to avoid these common mistakes. Make sure to thoroughly review your information, attach all necessary supporting documents, and submit your claim with ample time before the deadline.

Section 7: Form 31 Proof of Claim FAQs

In this section, we’ll address some frequently asked questions about completing Form 31 proof of claim.

Q1: What is Form 31 Proof of Claim?

A1: Form 31 Proof of Claim is a prescribed form that creditors use to indicate their claim against a bankrupt estate or in a formal restructuring under the BIA. It is a crucial step in the process, as it allows creditors to assert their rights and receive a portion of the available funds.

Q2: Where can I find Form 31 Proof of Claim?

A2: Form 31 Proof of Claim may be obtained from the office of the Trustee or downloaded from the official website of the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy Canada. Make sure you get the most up-to-date version of the form as the new one goes into effect on July 15, 2024.

Q3: What information should I include in Form 31 Proof of Claim?

A3: When completing Form 31 Proof of Claim, you should provide accurate and detailed information, including your name and address, the debtor’s name, the amount of your claim, and any supporting documentation.

Q4: Are there any specific formatting guidelines for completing Form 31 Proof of Claim?

A4: While there are no strict formatting guidelines, it’s important to ensure that your form is neat, legible, and organized. Use clear and concise language, and avoid any unnecessary details. Attach supporting documents in a logical order and label them appropriately.

Q5: Can I submit multiple claims using Form 31 Proof of Claim?

A5: Yes, you can submit multiple claims using Form 31 Proof of Claim. However, you must separate each claim clearly and provide all the necessary information and supporting documentation for each claim.

Q6: Can I make changes to my submitted Form 31 Proof of Claim?

A6: Once you have submitted your Form 31 Proof of Claim, it depends on the change. If it is something very minor, like your phone number, the Trustee will make that change for you. If it is a major change, like the amount you are claiming, it is recommended that you file an amended claim. Therefore, reviewing your form carefully before submission and ensuring its accuracy is crucial. If you need to make corrections or updates, contact the Trustee’s office immediately.

Remember, completing Form 31 Proof of Claim accurately and on time is essential to assert your rights as a creditor and receive a fair distribution from the estate. By following these tips and guidelines, you can navigate the process successfully.

Conclusion

Completing Form 31 Proof of Claim is crucial for creditors seeking to assert their rights in a bankruptcy case. By avoiding common mistakes, including providing inaccurate information, failing to include supporting documentation, and missing submission deadlines, creditors can enhance their chances of a smooth filing process. Remember to double-check all information, attach relevant supporting documents, and submit your claim on time. By doing so, you can ensure that your claim is properly considered and increase your chances of a successful outcome.

Do you or your company have too much debt? Are you or your company in need of financial restructuring? 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 much personal debt.

You are worried because you are facing significant financial challenges. 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 get you out of your 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 look at your entire situation and devise a strategy that is as unique as you and your problems; financial and emotional. The way we take the load off of your shoulders and devise a plan, we know that we can help you.

We know that people facing financial problems need a realistic lifeline. There is no “one solution fits all” approach with the Ira Smith Team.

That is why we can develop a restructuring process as unique as the financial problems and pain you are facing. If any of this sounds familiar to you and you are serious about finding a solution, contact the Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. team today.

Call us now for a free consultation. We will get you or your company back on the road to healthy stress-free operations and recover from the pain points in your life, Starting Over, Starting Now.

The information provided in this Brandon’s 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 of this Brandon’s Blog should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional guidance or consultation. The author, Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. as well as any contributors to this Brandon’s Blog, do not assume any liability for any loss or damage resulting from reliance on the information provided herein.picture of woman holding a pen about to complete the form 31 proof of claim in a Canadian bankruptcy proceeding to register her claim with the licensed insolvency trustee

Categories
Brandon Blog Post

LICENSED INSOLVENCY TRUSTEE FEES: WHAT UNDENIABLE EVIDENCE IS NEEDED FOR COURT APPROVAL OF INSOLVENCY TRUSTEE FEES?

Licensed insolvency trustee fees: How is a licensed insolvency trustee paid?

Are your debts or your company’s debts and financial situation causing you so much stress that you are considering speaking to a licensed insolvency trustee (formerly called a bankruptcy trustee or trustees in bankruptcy), but you are worried about the licensed insolvency trustee fees? Are you concerned about the professional fees to be paid because you think that businesses with debt problems already cannot afford to hire professionals? Your concerns are valid and relevant but you should not let that stop you from your initial inquiry. An insolvency trustee will always provide you with a no-cost initial consultation, discuss realistic options and explain the cost of each option to you.

Licensed insolvency trustee fees are set by bankruptcy laws and rules contained in the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act (Canada) (BIA). They are reviewed by the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy and must be approved by the bankruptcy court. Fees are either drawn from the funds accumulated in the insolvency file from the sale of assets in the receivership or bankruptcy administration or the monthly payment funding of the restructuring proposal. If there are insufficient assets in the insolvency file, then the insolvency trustee gets its fee from a third-party retainer.

In this Brandon’s Blog, I describe how licensed insolvency trustee fees are calculated. Then, I review a recent Ontario court decision to show what kind of evidence the Trustee needs to provide the court in order for its fees to be approved.

Licensed insolvency trustee fees: Disbursements included in a streamlined personal insolvency process

Licensed insolvency trustees offer a range of services for both individuals and businesses. For individuals, there are two streamlined insolvency processes:

  • summary administration personal bankruptcy; and
  • consumer proposals.

    licensed insolvency trustee fees
    licensed insolvency trustee fees

Licensed insolvency trustee fees in a summary administration personal bankruptcy

The summary administration personal bankruptcy process applies when the assets of the bankrupt person to be sold are expected to sell for $15,000 or less. Licensed insolvency trustee fees for a summary administration personal bankruptcy are set by a formula called a tariff.

In a summary administration bankruptcy, the fees that insolvency trustees are entitled to are calculated as follows:

  • 100 percent on the first $975 or less of receipts;
  • 35 percent on the portion of the receipts exceeding $975 but not exceeding $2,000;
  • 50% of receipts exceeding $2,000;
  • for counselling fees of $75 per session, totalling $150; and
  • an allowance for administrative disbursements of $100.

The reason the formula refers to receipts (of cash) rather than net proceeds from asset sales is that, in any personal bankruptcy, there are two types of cash receipts: 1. from the sale of assets; and 2. surplus income payments made by the bankrupt person, if any.

Licensed insolvency trustee fees: How much will it cost me to file a consumer proposal?

The calculation of the amount you need to offer your creditors in your consumer proposal has no relation to what the licensed insolvency trustee fees will be. Licensed insolvency trustee fees for a licensed trustee acting as the Administrator in the consumer proposal process is also governed by a tariff. It is calculated as follows:

  • $750 on the filing of the proposal with the official receiver;
  • $750 on the approval or deemed approval by the court;
  • 20% of moneys distributed payable on distribution; and
  • counselling fee of $75 for each counselling session for a total of $150.

In a consumer proposal, administrative disbursements are paid out of the above fee calculation.

In both summary administrations and consumer proposals where the licensed insolvency trustee fees are only the tariff, there is no need for court approval.

licensed insolvency trustee fees
licensed insolvency trustee fees

What factors influence licensed insolvency trustee fees in other administrations?

There are no streamlined provisions for any corporate insolvency administration. In addition to administering summary administration bankruptcies and consumer proposals, licensed insolvency trustees also can provide the following services:

  • business review of a company to identify its solvency and future prospects so that financial advice can be given
  • ordinary administration personal bankruptcy
  • commercial bankruptcy
  • personal Division I restructuring proposal to creditors (for consumers who cannot qualify for a consumer proposal)
  • corporate Division I restructuring proposal
  • private corporate receivership
  • court-appointed corporate receivership
  • winding-up corporate liquidation, either voluntary or court-supervised
  • corporate restructuring under the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act

In all of the above government-regulated insolvency proceedings/insolvency procedures, there are only two factors that influence the licensed insolvency trustee fees. They are:

  1. Hours spent by the level of staff working.
  2. The professional hourly rate of the staff.

Licensed insolvency trustee fees: How does an insolvency practitioner receive compensation?

In all of the non-streamlined insolvency processes, I just described, how the licensed trustee gets the fees it is charging requires approval. In private appointments, the licensed trustee needs the approval of the client. In a court appointment or administration for bankruptcy services or any other mandate under the BIA, the licensed trustee needs court approval.

What evidence do licensed insolvency trustees need to provide to prove the time that was spent doing the work? The documentation expected of a licensed trustee is the same that is expected from an insolvency lawyer or any other kind of lawyer. What is expected are detailed time dockets, so that everyone can see who spent what time, on what day on what activity.

But what if proper dockets are not kept? Well, that is exactly what the court case I want to describe to you is all about.

licensed insolvency trustee fees
licensed insolvency trustee fees

Licensed insolvency trustee fees: How do practitioners of insolvency get compensated – it takes a Final Statement of Receipts and Disbursements

I am writing this Brandon’s Blog to be informative, not to embarrass anyone. So I will not be providing the case reference of the case I am now going to describe. This is actually the second such case in Ontario that I am aware of in the last 12 months.

The case deals with a bankruptcy trustee who submitted its final statement of receipts and disbursements (SRD) to the court for approval. Contained in this final statement is amongst other things, the line item for the fee and disbursements the Trustee is seeking court approval for. The court expects to see a sworn affidavit from someone on the insolvency trustee’s staff who has knowledge of the time spent and the fee charged outlining what was done and why it was necessary. The court also expects to see detailed time dockets.

In this case, and the very similar one that came before it, the insolvency trustee’s material did not include detailed time dockets. Both Trustees applied for taxation of their SRD in an individual debtor’s Division I Proposal. In both cases, the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy issued clean letters of comment. The primary issue raised on this taxation is whether the insolvency trustee’s fees are to be approved. In the ordinary course, the debtor and the creditors have not been given notice of the taxation but it would appear that there is unlikely to be any objection.

The taxation raises the question of how the Trustee is supposed to establish its entitlement to fees when there is no time dockets kept or otherwise available to support the trustee’s claim. In this case (and the one before it), the Trustee is relying solely on the terms of the proposal. The proposal contains the methodology for calculating the fees to be taken by the Trustee in administering the proposal. The Trustee is relying on the fact that a Proposal is a contract between the debtor and its creditors, the court has already approved the Proposal and the Proposal includes the Trustee’s remuneration.

Licensed insolvency trustee fees: Bankruptcy trustees – why not keep accurate time records?

The Trustee requested fees (plus HST) based on the formula set out in the debtor’s proposal. While the Trustee provided an affidavit in support of its taxation, the Trustee did not provide any evidence of actual time spent at each staff level. The taxation came before the Associate Justice on September 1, 2021. She adjourned the taxation and requested time dockets.

The Trustee filed a report in response to the September 1, 2021 endorsement and request for time dockets, supporting the taxation and approval of the fees claimed, but no time dockets were included. In its report, the Trustee noted that it did not keep formal, detailed time records, as the terms of the Trustee’s fees and expenses are set forth in the Proposal as a “fixed fee” formula. This fee formula was accepted by creditors and approved by the Court. Therefore, the Trustee is relying upon that in not keeping time dockets.

The Trustee advised that its rationale for the development of a fixed fee formula to be charged by the Trustee, and for its decision to eliminate time docketing in such Division I proposals containing a formula for fixing a fee, were as follows:

  1. The fixed fee formula was designed by the Trustee to provide more certainty about the costs of administration for the Division I proposal. This formula also takes into account contingencies such as the time needed to negotiate the terms of the proposal and to verify the debtor’s financial information.
  2. The fixed fee formula was designed to make billing and accounting more efficient by eliminating the need to track chargeable time.
  3. The fixed fee formula was based on the consumer proposal tariff, to a certain extent.
  4. The fixed fee formula’s structure helped the Trustee keep initial costs low, so creditors could start getting dividends from the debtor’s monthly payments sooner.
  5. The fixed fee formula was designed to minimize unexpected increases in costs of administration and a resulting decrease in dividends.
  6. Not once has a creditor balked at the Trustee’s fixed fee.
  7. The court approved the proposal with the fixed fee formula, so the Trustee did not keep time dockets.
  8. There are many proposals whose administration is underway or completed that the Trustee has relied upon the fixed fee formula, and therefore has not maintained time dockets.
  9. The trustee’s fees, as claimed under the fixed fee formula, have not been objected to by the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy Canada.

    licensed insolvency trustee fees
    licensed insolvency trustee fees

Licensed insolvency trustee fees: The court’s analysis and decision

The BIA provides for the determination of a Trustee’s remuneration in section 39. The Associate Justice said that s. 39(5) of the BIA provides the jurisdiction to increase or reduce the remuneration claimed by a Trustee. Further, the court was not a “rubber stamp” obliged to approve the fees claimed by the Trustee merely because they were in the Proposal. The court noted that it is common for Trustees to request remuneration based on the time spent and hourly rates charged. The burden is on the Trustee to convince the court that the amount claimed for remuneration is warranted.

The Associate Justice listed the following principles that must be considered when it comes to taxation:

  • Trustees should be given proper compensation for their services.
  • Prevent unjustifiable payments for Trustee fees that harm the insolvent estate and its unsecured creditors.
  • The efficient and conscientious administration of an estate for the benefit of creditors and, to the extent that the public is concerned, in the interests of the proper carrying-out of the objectives of the BIA, should be encouraged.

This Associate Justice also dealt with the previous case I mentioned above, which involved the taxation of a statement of receipts and disbursements in a Division I proposal where no time dockets were kept. In that case, she held that the lack of time dockets was not fatal to the approval of fees. She said the court is in a difficult position when there is no corroborative evidence as to the time and effort spent in the administration of the proposal.

So due to the lack of evidence justifying the time spent by the various staff members of the Trustee firm at their normal hourly rates, the Associate Justice was forced to look at the entirety of the Trustee’s administration. She found issues with it and therefore concluded that the Trustee was not entitled to the full fee being requested, based on the formula contained in the Division I Proposal. The Associate Justice determined, with the benefit of hindsight as to how the Division I Proposal turned out, that the debtor could have filed a consumer proposal and the creditors would have then been better off with a higher dividend distribution.

The Associate Justice ruled that, in this case, fees and disbursements will be set on a consumer proposal tariff basis. The proposal fund totalled $31,500. Using the formula for a consumer proposal, the Trustee was therefore entitled to fee and disbursements of $7,620 (plus HST) and not the $9,973.46 fee and $14,252.01 of disbursements (plus HST) formula amount.

The Associate Justice was also very critical of the Trustee’s administration and she had strong words overall for Trustees coming to court without proper evidence of the time spent when requesting approval for fees and disbursements at taxation. Her warning was that she did not accept the Trustee’s submissions that:

  • The court’s jurisdiction over approving the SRD and the fees to be claimed by the Trustee is replaced by the approval of the creditors and the OSB. Creditor and OSB approval are not determinative when it comes to taxation, but their approval is still relevant.
  • The appropriateness of the Trustee’s fees is not considered in an application for court approval of a Division I proposal. The court is not prevented from taxing the Trustee’s fee and disbursements upon the taxation of the SRD.
  • Any benefits to having a set fee remove the court’s jurisdiction to approve the Trustee’s fees. If the Trustee decides to save time by not documenting their hours worked, they do so at their own risk. The responsibility is always on the Trustee to justify their fees.
  • Creditors who want to know how much the Trustee’s fee will be cannot override the Trustee’s responsibility to explain to the court why the fee is fair and reasonable.

The court directed the Trustee to redo its SRD on the basis decided by the court, resubmit it to the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy for its comment letter and then resubmit the entire package to the court for the taxation order.

A tough day in court to be sure.

Licensed insolvency trustee fees: Call us for debt-free solutions

I hope you found this licensed insolvency trustee fees Brandon’s Blog interesting. Among the many problems that can arise from having too much debt, you may also find yourself in a situation where bankruptcy seems like a realistic option.

If you or your business are dealing with substantial debt challenges and are concerned that bankruptcy may be your only option, call me. I can provide you with debt relief advice in setting up one of various possible debt management plans using debt relief options for you or your company.

You are not to blame for your current situation. You have only been taught the old ways of dealing with financial issues, which are no longer effective. We are debt professionals who know how to use the new innovative tools to solving debt problems while avoiding a bankruptcy filing.

We’re passionate about permanently solving your financial problems with you and getting you or your company out of debt. We offer innovative services and alternatives, and we’ll work with you to develop a personalized preparation for becoming debt-free which does not include bankruptcy. We are committed to helping everyone obtain the relief they need and are worthy of.

You are under a lot of pressure. We understand how uncomfortable you are. We will assess your entire situation and develop a new, custom approach that is tailored to you and your specific financial and emotional problems. We will take the burden off of your shoulders and clear 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 realize that people and businesses in financial difficulty need a workable solution. 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 can tailor a new debt restructuring procedure specifically for you, based on your unique economic situation and needs. If any of this sounds familiar to you and you’re serious about finding a solution and improving your financial future, let us know. Starting Over, Starting Now.

Call us now for a no-cost consultation to find out what your debt relief options are.

licensed insolvency trustee fees
licensed insolvency trustee fees
Categories
Brandon Blog Post

WHAT DOES A LICENSED INSOLVENCY TRUSTEE DO TO HELP IN YOUR MANAGING DEBT FOR A PROFOUND QUALITY OF LIFE?

what does a licensed insolvency trustee do

The Ira Smith Trustee Team is absolutely operational and Ira, in addition to Brandon Smith, is readily available for a telephone consultation or video meeting. We hope that you and your family are safe and healthy.

What does a licensed insolvency trustee do?: What is a licensed insolvency trustee?

Frequently I am asked what does a licensed insolvency trustee do? How is it different from a bankruptcy trustee? The answer is it isn’t different. The term bankruptcy trustee is dated.

The new title is Licensed Insolvency Trustee. The Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy (OSB) changed it in 2015. Among the reasons for the name change were the submissions made by the Canadian Association of Insolvency and Restructuring Professionals. As the name suggests, a licensed insolvency trustee can offer a wider array of financial solutions.

This Brandon’s Blog is intended to describe what does a licensed insolvency trustee do and to provide useful information for you to help you better understand the debt relief advice that a Trustee provides to people, entrepreneurs, and their companies experiencing financial trouble.

What does a licensed insolvency trustee do?: Licensed insolvency trustees are professionals who are federally regulated

There are many terms in the insolvency field that the average person isn’t familiar with, which is why it’s important to understand what the licensed insolvency trustee does. Trustees are licensed and supervised by the federal government through the OSB to act as personal and corporate insolvency administrators. This means they act to protect the interests of all involved parties while assisting debtors, acting as a debt counselor, a restructuring advisor, and if required, overseeing the bankruptcy process.

Licensed insolvency trustees are professionals with a background in finance, law, accounting, and insolvency. They assist businesses and individuals who are struggling financially. Typically, licensed insolvency trustees meet with clients to discuss their financial situation and offer advice and recommendations to help get the client out of a financial bind.

what does a licensed insolvency trustee do
what does a licensed insolvency trustee do

What does a licensed insolvency trustee do?: The credit counselor or a debt management program as an alternative

Financial guidance is offered by licensed insolvency trustees, credit counselors, and debt management programs. These services differ greatly from each other.

A licensed insolvency trustee can simply offer you financial advice and help you plan on how to repay your debts if that is all you need. A trustee is also the only person who can file a bankruptcy or consumer proposal for you. A Trustee will provide you with an initial no-cost confidential consultation to see if there are alternatives to bankruptcy for you. Credit counselors, credit counselling companies, and debt management businesses can give you financial advice and information. They can help you make a budget and make plans to repay your debt.

What does a licensed insolvency trustee do when you have debt but do not need to resort to one of the insolvency processes? During the free initial consultation, if a consumer proposal or bankruptcy is not right for you, the Trustee will refer you to see a community organization-based credit counselor who will be able to help you and also will not charge you a fee.

What does a licensed insolvency trustee do?: The Consumer Proposal Process

Consumer proposals to creditors are made by debtors and are legally binding agreements. You group all your debts into a consumer proposal to creditors. This is a debt solution to avoid bankruptcy. Your creditors agree to accept a reduced amount as full payment. The consumer proposal is a legal alternative to bankruptcy. Only a licensed insolvency trustee can administer it.

The only consumer insolvency restructuring proceeding regulated by the Canadian government is referred to as a consumer proposal (which is the only one of the consumer insolvency government-regulated insolvency proceedings that allow debt consolidation, debt settlement, or debt adjustment). In the end, your creditors write off the remainder of your debt, and you are released from those legal obligations.

If you owe $250,000 or less (not including any personal mortgages) and are insolvent, then you can qualify for a consumer proposal. Month-to-month payments over no more than 60 months need to be made to the Trustee. You pay just a part (generally 25%) of your total financial obligations gradually to the Trustee and when ended up, the rest of the balance owing to your unsecured creditors is written off.

what does a licensed insolvency trustee do
what does a licensed insolvency trustee do

What does a licensed insolvency trustee do?: The bankruptcy process

Canadian bankruptcy is a process whereby a person or company can declare itself bankrupt. The bankruptcy process starts in the provincial or territorial office of the OSB where the debtor is located.

In Canada, personal bankruptcy entails a number of stages. The debtor must be insolvent, meaning that they cannot repay their debts with the assets that they own or the income they earn. With the help of the Trustee, they must file statements of affairs and a statement of current income and expenses. There are other obligations on an undischarged bankrupt but that is not the purpose of this blog.

Upon receiving their discharge from bankruptcy, that is the moment that the debtor’s debts are forgiven or discharged.

What does a licensed insolvency trustee do?: The assignment of assets

When people file assignments in bankruptcy, what does a licensed insolvency trustee do with the assets? Any assets not charged by a secured creditor are available for the Trustee to take possession of. Those assets are usually things like real estate, cash, and vehicles. When assets are seized in bankruptcy the proceedings usually lead to them being sold and the proceeds are shared with creditors.

This is the main difference between a consumer proposal and bankruptcy. In a consumer proposal, there is no assignment of assets to the Trustee like in a bankruptcy. The debtor in a consumer proposal keeps their assets and makes monthly payments. It is the total of the monthly payments that the Trustee distributes to the creditors in a consumer proposal. In a bankruptcy, it is the proceeds of the asset sales.

what does a licensed insolvency trustee do
what does a licensed insolvency trustee do

What does a licensed insolvency trustee do?: Opting for a consumer proposal

Many people I deal with have significant debt problems. However, a consumer proposal may not be the best option for everyone. Opting for a consumer proposal means not only do you qualify under Canadian insolvency legislation to use one. It also means that it is a better alternative for you than personal bankruptcy. It means that you are able to restructure and not need bankruptcy services from a licensed insolvency trustee.

A consumer proposal is a way to get out of debt without declaring bankruptcy. If you are having trouble paying back credit card bills, medical bills, rent payments, and you don’t want to declare bankruptcy, a consumer proposal might be right for you.

Before opting for a consumer proposal, you must meet the following requirements:

  1. Total liabilities of $250,000 or less.
  2. Monthly payments can be made to your creditors, but not 100% of the total amount due.
  3. You cannot repay all of your debts with the money you have.
  4. If you work and are able to budget, you can pay your budgeted monthly expenses and have money left over for regular monthly payments to the Trustee. Under a debt management plan, your creditors will agree to write off a portion of your debt if you pay a fraction of what you owe.
  5. You may also be lucky enough to have a relative willing to put up a lump sum of money that represents a fraction of what you owe so that your unsecured creditors will accept it instead of all that you owe. This means that you can be in and out of your consumer proposal fairly quickly if you are in this fortunate position.

To summarize, consumer proposals are best suited to people with a sufficient disposable income. Consumer proposals offer the best way of restructuring, eliminating your unsecured debts, and avoiding bankruptcy.

There are restructuring provisions in the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act (Canada) for people who owe more than they can discharge in a consumer proposal or in business insolvency. Despite some differences in the rules, the overall theme of restructuring remains the same.

What does a licensed insolvency trustee do?: Going the bankruptcy route

Given the above, what can a person do to eliminate their unsecured debt if they cannot qualify for filing a consumer proposal as an alternative to bankruptcy? Going the bankruptcy route will probably make the most sense.

Bankruptcy is when a person cannot pay their bills. They file Canadian personal bankruptcy to get a fresh start. Filing a consumer bankruptcy must be your last resort after exhausting all other options to avoid bankruptcy. Bankruptcy means debts are written off when the person receives their absolute discharge from bankruptcy. The bankruptcy law in Canada protects people from dishonest, unfair, or abusive practices by creditors.

However, in return for getting the relief of eliminating debts through bankruptcy, an undischarged bankrupt also has certain responsibilities.

These include:

  1. Making full disclosure to the Trustee.
  2. With the assistance of the Trustee, preparing the sworn Statement of Affairs and Statement of Income and Expenses.
  3. Delivering all assets and properties to the Trustee to be sold (other than for certain provincial exemptions).
  4. Attending the First Meeting of Creditors if one needs to be held.
  5. Attending two financial counselling sessions with the Trustee or a member of the Trustee’s staff. Attendance at credit counseling sessions is also the case in a consumer proposal.
  6. Providing monthly statements of income and expenses while an undischarged bankrupt.
  7. Generally providing any assistance requested by the Trustee.

In providing debt-relief options, the Canadian bankruptcy system is designed to provide fairness to both debtors and creditors while allowing the person to financially rehabilitate themselves.

what does a licensed insolvency trustee do
what does a licensed insolvency trustee do

What does a licensed insolvency trustee do?: Final thoughts

What does a licensed insolvency trustee do? Licensed insolvency trustees are insolvency practitioners. They are debt professionals who deal with and provide services to individuals and businesses with debt problems that are experiencing financial issues that can only be resolved through an insolvency process. Licensed insolvency trustees are professionals, offering affordable solutions to financial struggles.

I hope you found this what does a licensed insolvency trustee do Brandon’s Blog about helpful. Sometimes things are too far gone and more drastic and immediate triage action is required.

Do you have too much debt? Are you in need of financial restructuring? 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 much personal debt. You are worried because you are facing significant financial challenges.

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 get you out of your 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 look at your entire situation and devise a strategy that is as unique as you and your problems; financial and emotional. The way we take the load off of your shoulders and devise a debt settlement plan, we know that we can help you.

We know that people facing financial problems need a realistic lifeline. There is no “one solution fits all” approach with the Ira Smith Team. That is why we can develop a restructuring process as unique as the financial problems and pain you are facing. If any of this sounds familiar to you and you are serious in finding a solution, contact the Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. team today.

Call us now for a free consultation.

We will get you or your company back on the road to healthy stress-free operations and recover from the pain points in your life, Starting Over, Starting Now.

The Ira Smith Trustee Team is absolutely operational and Ira, in addition to Brandon Smith, is readily available for a telephone consultation or video meeting. We hope that you and your family are safe and healthy.

what does a licensed insolvency trustee do
what does a licensed insolvency trustee do
Call a Trustee Now!