Fixing Debt with Consumer Proposals in Alberta
When you are fixing debt with consumer proposals in Alberta, Debt consolidation is a common solution that numerous Albertans grappling with debt consider. A distinct alternative to debt consolidation is the consumer proposal, which serves as a legal contract between an individual in debt and their creditors, allowing for partial repayment of outstanding unsecured debts.
Blanchard & Company, a trusted provider of consumer proposal assistance, can help Albertans navigate this process. This article will explore the differences between consumer proposals and bankruptcy, outline the process of filing a consumer proposal with Blanchard & Company, and discuss life after a consumer proposal.
Consumer Proposal vs. Bankruptcy
Consumer proposals and bankruptcy both serve as debt relief alternatives for Albertans struggling with debt, but they possess distinct characteristics:
- Consumer proposals enable you to negotiate with creditors to repay a part of your unsecured debts over a specified duration, allowing you to retain your assets without forfeiting property.
- In contrast, bankruptcy is a legal route that eliminates the majority of your unsecured debts. During bankruptcy, you might need to relinquish some assets, and the process can result in more significant impacts on your credit rating.
The eligibility requirements for these options also vary. To pursue a consumer proposal, your unsecured debt must range between $1,000 and $250,000 (excluding mortgage debt), and you must be incapable of repaying the entire amount. Bankruptcy, on the other hand, is generally intended for individuals unable to pay back any portion of their debts and who lack other feasible alternatives.
The Procedure for Filing a Consumer Proposal
Filing for a consumer proposal involves a series of stages:
- Locate a Licensed Insolvency Trustee (LIT): Blanchard & Company provides skilled LITs who will evaluate your financial circumstances and determine if a consumer proposal is the optimal choice for you.
- Formulate the proposal: At Blanchard & Company, your LIT will assist you in devising a proposal that delineates the repayment conditions, including the amount you can manage to repay and the repayment duration.
- Present the proposal: Your Blanchard & Company LIT will submit the proposal to your creditors. If the majority of the creditors (by the value of the debt) agree to the proposal, it becomes binding for all involved parties.
- Confer with creditors: If necessary, your Blanchard & Company LIT will facilitate negotiations with your creditors to achieve a mutually acceptable arrangement.
- Remit monthly payments: Following the proposal’s acceptance, you will make monthly payments to your Blanchard & Company LIT, who will then distribute the funds among your creditors.
- Fulfill the proposal: After meeting the proposal’s requirements, you will be legally absolved from the debts encompassed within the agreement.
Life After a Consumer Proposal
Submitting a consumer proposal can affect your credit; however, it provides an opportunity to restore your financial well-being. Here are some suggestions for moving forward after a consumer proposal:
- Keep an eye on your credit: Consistently review your credit report to confirm its accuracy and observe your progress.
- Establish an emergency fund: Set aside money for unforeseen expenses to prevent dependence on credit in the future.
- Utilize credit wisely: Apply for a secured credit card or a modest loan to improve your credit. Make timely payments and maintain low balances.
- Develop a budget: Create a practical budget that factors in your income, expenditures, and financial objectives.
- Gain insight from past experiences: Contemplate the factors that contributed to your financial hardships and take measures to prevent falling into debt again.
- If you have worked hard on rebuilding your credit, you could be eligible for a mortgage at the best discounted interest rates on a mortgage in two years after completing the consumer proposal.
In summary, a consumer proposal can be a beneficial debt consolidation alternative for Albertans confronting financial difficulties. By comprehending the distinctions between consumer proposals and bankruptcy, understanding the procedure for filing a consumer proposal with Blanchard & Company, and examining life after a consumer proposal, individuals can make informed decisions about their financial futures.