Bankruptcy Discharge Papers

Bankruptcy discharge papers represent the culmination of the bankruptcy process, indicating the end of a debtor’s obligation towards their included debts. This article will delve into the intricacies of these vital documents in the Canadian context, focusing on their significance, the requirements to obtain them, and their potential implications.

What are Bankruptcy Discharge Papers?

In essence, Bankruptcy Discharge Papers are official documents that mark the completion of the bankruptcy process in Canada. Once a debtor has satisfied all bankruptcy requirements, these papers are issued by the Licensed Insolvency Trustee (LIT).

A discharge from bankruptcy implies that a debtor is absolved from the responsibility of repaying the debts encompassed in their bankruptcy filing. The ultimate goal of filing for bankruptcy, especially for insolvent individuals seeking relief under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act, is to obtain a full and absolute discharge.

The bankruptcy discharge papers are the final step in the bankruptcy process, 

signifying the debtor's release from their financial obligations related to the included debts.

Contrary to common belief, a debtor is not immediately discharged from their debts upon declaring bankruptcy. Although they cease making debt payments and instead pay the bankruptcy payments to their trustee, they remain legally liable for the debts until the process concludes. It is the final discharge that releases the debtor from their debt obligations.

Not all Debts are Discharged

Bankruptcy primarily deals with unsecured debts, such as credit card debts, personal loans, payday loans, and unpaid bills. However, certain financial obligations are exempt from discharge under bankruptcy law.

These include:

1. Alimony and child support payments.
2. Court-imposed fines and penalties.
3. Debts arising from fraudulent activities.
4. Student loans, if the debtor was a student within the last seven years.

Requirements for Obtaining Bankruptcy Discharge Papers

To secure a discharge, a debtor must fulfill all bankruptcy duties, which include:

• Making all required payments.
• Transferring all assigned property to the trustee.
• Attending two mandatory credit counselling sessions.
• Attending any meeting of creditors, examination, or court hearing as required.

Failure to complete these duties may delay the discharge. The majority of Canadian bankruptcies result in an automatic discharge without a court hearing. However, non-completion of requirements or committing an offense under the Bankruptcy & Insolvency Act can jeopardize the discharge process.

Bankruptcy Discharge Timeline

The timeline for obtaining bankruptcy discharge papers varies based on several factors. A first-time bankrupt who is not required to pay surplus income can receive an automatic discharge in 9 months. If surplus income payments are necessary, the bankruptcy period extends to 21 months. Longer bankruptcy durations apply to second and subsequent bankruptcies. Failure to fulfill duties within this period can lead to a delay in obtaining the discharge.

Opposition to Discharge

A debtor’s discharge may face opposition from the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy, the trustee, or a creditor. Common grounds for opposition include failing to pay the agreed amount of surplus income, neglecting mandatory counselling sessions, conducting unusual or excessive transactions prior to bankruptcy, or committing fraud.

In such cases, the trustee will arrange a court hearing and prepare a court report outlining the financial summary of the debtor’s bankruptcy estate and their conduct during the process.

Types of Bankruptcy Discharge

There are five types of bankruptcy discharge:

1. Automatic Discharge.
2. Order of Absolute Discharge.
3. Order of Conditional Discharge.
4. Order of Suspended Bankruptcy Discharge.
5. Discharge Refused.

The type of discharge granted depends on the debtor’s circumstances, their conduct during bankruptcy, their income and bankruptcy payments, and the reasons behind their debt.

After the Bankruptcy Discharge

Once the discharge is granted, the debtor’s included debts are eliminated. However, the record of bankruptcy remains on the debtor’s credit report for seven years for first-time bankruptcies, and longer for subsequent ones. After discharge, debtors can begin rebuilding their credit rating and their financial future.

Rebuilding Credit

Debtors can start rebuilding their credit immediately after discharge by:

• Checking their credit report for accuracy.
• Applying for a secured credit card and making full payments each month.
• Using the financial education gained during credit counselling sessions.

Conclusion

Obtaining bankruptcy discharge papers signifies the end of a complex journey, denoting a fresh financial start for the individual. Understanding the process and requirements can help individuals navigate this journey more efficiently. With the aid of a Licensed Insolvency Trustee, individuals can ensure that they fulfill all necessary duties and successfully obtain their discharge.

For more information on bankruptcy discharge or alternatives to bankruptcy, consider contacting a credit counsellor or a Licensed Insolvency Trustee. They can provide expert advice and guidance, helping individuals make informed decisions about their financial future.