CREDIT COUNSELLING SERVICES IN Brantford, ON

Ontario may be the largest Canadian province in terms of population, but its residents are fortunate that they do not carry the largest average amount of consumer debt per capita. As of the end of Q1 2019, residents of Ontario had an average debt level of just under $24,032, up 4.5% from the same period in 2018 but down from the peaks earlier in the decade. These debt levels are comparable with other major provinces around the country however well under the highest debt laden province which is Alberta.

If you live in Brantford and cannot pay your bills on time or are seeing your overall debt levels increase month after month, then credit counselling may be the answer you are looking for. A quality Brantford credit counselling program can help you get out from under your debt and shore up your financial future at the same time.

Would a DMP work for residents of Brantford?

Residents of Brantford, ON often confuse debt management plans with credit consolidation, because they have some similarities. For instance, both programs entail converting several debts into one monthly payment for ease of tracking. However, you still owe the original creditors when you enroll in a debt management plan (DMP). Conversely, you only owe one entity when you participate in a debt consolidation loan.

If you’re considering a DMP in Brantford, you must have a steady source of income. While DMPs serve those with more than $10,000 of debt, homeowners may have to cash out equity instead. Likewise, individuals who have funds in their RRSP may have to use those funds to pay off debt in lieu of enrolling in a debt management plan. Speak to a counsellor in Brantford, ON to determine if a DMP is the right option for you.

Debt Consolidation Options in Brantford

As a citizen living in Brantford, it’s not uncommon to fall on hard times. If you’re experiencing difficulty keeping up with your financial obligations, debt consolidation may be your best option to get back on track. As such, consolidating your unsecure debts can make managing your payments easier. For example, multiple credit card debts and other liabilities combine into a single monthly payment. This makes it easier to prepare for and remember when just one due date is approaching every month.

In addition, that single payment can be more manageable, with a lower interest rate than the existing rates on your different debts. While there are different ways to consolidate your debt, the most common way is through procuring a loan. However, your ability to qualify for a consolidation loan depends on your current credit score. Learn more about the debt consolidation process in Brantford, ON here.

Options for a Consumer Proposal in Brantford

To file a consumer proposal, Brantford residents must go through a Licensed Insolvency Trustee in the area. Consumer proposals allow their participants to pay back less than what they owe to their creditors. Despite how good that sounds, it comes with some drawbacks and should be a last resort, much like bankruptcy.

To qualify for a consumer proposal in Brantford, individuals must know owe more than $250,000. Likewise, a married couple filing jointly cannot have more than $500,000 in debt. Paying less than what you owe at a lower interest rate comes with some heavy consequences. For one, your credit score drops to the absolute lowest it can go. In addition, the consumer proposal will remain on your credit report up to three years after you complete the five-year program. This can make acquiring credit or buying a home or auto more difficult. Speak to a member of our team who understands the laws regarding consumer proposals in Brantford today.

How Bankruptcy works in Brantford, ON

Many people living in Brantford, ON can find it difficult to keep up with the cost of living. If your debts have been piling up to an unmanageable amount, declaring bankruptcy might be the solution to your money troubles. However, one must never take bankruptcy lightly, as it is only a last resort. Speaking to a Licensed Insolvency Trustee can shed some light on your options and inform your next steps in finding a fitting solution.

Remember, declaring bankruptcy gets most of your debts forgiven, however you forfeit most of your valuable assets in return. In addition, you will no longer experience wage garnishments. Conversely, you may not be able to obtain credit for seven years, and there is a limit on how much you can earn during the bankruptcy. If you’re thinking about filing for bankruptcy in Brantford, call us to speak with a professional who can help.

YOU ARE NOT ALONE

In 2020, 183 Brantford residents reached out to debt.ca to finally tackle their debt problems. They were struggling with an average debt load of $15,664 but now have the help they need to get their finances, and their life, back on track.