Bankruptcy BC: Filing Bankruptcy in BC

How to Claim Bankruptcies in BC:
A Comprehensive Guide to
Declaring Bankruptcy in BC

Bankruptcy is often seen as a last resort for individuals facing overwhelming debt. In British Columbia (BC), residents experiencing financial difficulties may consider declaring bankruptcy to obtain a fresh start. While bankruptcy may seem daunting, the process is straightforward and can provide relief from unmanageable debts. This comprehensive guide will answer frequently asked questions about bankruptcy in BC and explore alternative debt solutions. Whether you are considering bankruptcy or seeking alternatives, this article will equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your financial future.

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What is Bankruptcy?

Bankruptcy is a legal process governed by the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act, which allows individuals or businesses to eliminate their debts when they are unable to repay their financial obligations. In BC, bankruptcy is facilitated by a Licensed Insolvency Trustee (LIT), who helps evaluate eligibility and guides individuals through the process. To qualify for personal bankruptcy, you must owe at least $1,000 and be insolvent, meaning you cannot repay your entire debt at once. Filing for bankruptcy in BC begins with a free consultation with a LIT, and the entire process can be completed online.

Insolvency and Bankruptcy

Insolvency refers to the financial status of an individual or corporation where they are unable to repay their debts or owe more than the value of their assets. While insolvency is a prerequisite for filing bankruptcy, being insolvent does not automatically mean declaring bankruptcy. Determining insolvency can be complex and is best assessed by a Licensed Insolvency Trustee who can help evaluate your situation and explore debt management options.

Filing for Bankruptcy in BC

There are two ways to file for bankruptcy in BC. The most common method is voluntary bankruptcy, where individuals seek the assistance of a Licensed Insolvency Trustee to navigate the process. In rare cases, a creditor may petition the court to force an individual or business into bankruptcy. It is essential to note that creditors cannot prevent you from filing for bankruptcy. If you are considering bankruptcy, the first step is to schedule a free consultation with a Licensed Insolvency Trustee to assess your situation and determine if bankruptcy is the right option for you.

Bankruptcy and Your Spouse

While it is possible for spouses to file for bankruptcy together, it is often recommended to proceed with separate filings. Each individual has specific duties to fulfill during the bankruptcy process, and filing jointly may complicate the discharge process. However, joint Consumer Proposals, an alternative to bankruptcy, can provide benefits in certain circumstances where debts are shared.

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Bankruptcy Alternatives

Exploring Alternatives to Bankruptcy

Bankruptcy should be considered as a last resort when other debt solutions are unsuitable. Several alternatives exist in BC to help individuals become debt-free, depending on their specific circumstances. These alternatives include:

  1. Repayment Negotiations: Attempting to negotiate repayment or settlement plans directly with creditors.
  2. Debt Consolidation: Obtaining a consolidation loan to pay off multiple debts, or enrolling in a debt management program offered by non-profit credit counseling organizations.
  3. Debt Settlement: Working with a reputable debt settlement company to negotiate settlements with creditors by offering a lump-sum payment.
  4. Consumer Proposal: A legal alternative to bankruptcy, a Consumer Proposal is arranged by a trustee. By making monthly payments, individuals can pay back a portion of their debts, subject to creditor approval.

Consulting with a Licensed Insolvency Trustee can provide valuable insights into which debt solution is most suitable for your specific financial situation.

Debts Included in Bankruptcy

Filing for bankruptcy in BC can eliminate various types of debt, including:

  • Consumer and business debts such as credit cards, lines of credit, and payday loans.
  • Income tax debts, including income taxes, GST, and business taxes.
  • Student loans, both federal and provincial.
  • ICBC debts.
  • Secured debts, such as vehicle shortfalls or mortgage foreclosures.
  • Debts for which you have signed a personal guarantee.
  • Debts owed to individuals.

It is important to note that some debts, such as those owed to Family Maintenance Enforcement, may not be extinguished by bankruptcy.

Creditor Harassment and Privacy

Once bankruptcy is filed, all collection actions against you must cease. By law, creditors are barred from contacting you for payment, and collection calls, letters, wage seizures, and bank account freezes are halted. While bankruptcy provides relief from creditor harassment, many individuals are concerned about their privacy. In BC, bankruptcy proceedings are generally private, with only creditors, the Licensed Insolvency Trustee, the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy, and the individual filing for bankruptcy being aware of the proceedings. Credit reporting agencies may include bankruptcy information on your credit history for six years from the date of discharge.

Bankruptcy’s Impact on Spouses

Filing for bankruptcy in BC does not automatically affect your spouse unless they are a co-signer, co-borrower, or co-cardholder on your debts. In such cases, your spouse remains responsible for repaying the full balance of the joint debt, minus any funds received as part of your bankruptcy. If your spouse is facing financial difficulties, seeking advice from a Licensed Insolvency Trustee can help explore options for addressing their debts.

Protecting Assets in Bankruptcy

While bankruptcy involves surrendering some property to settle debts, there are exemptions in BC that allow you to keep certain assets. These exemptions include:

  • Vehicle equity up to $5,000.
  • Home equity up to $12,000 in Vancouver and Victoria, and $9,000 elsewhere in BC.
  • Household items such as furniture, up to a certain value.
  • Tools of your trade worth up to $10,000.

It is important to consult with a Licensed Insolvency Trustee to understand the specific asset exemptions applicable to your situation.

Cost of Bankruptcy in BC

The cost of filing for bankruptcy in BC typically totals $2,300 for a basic bankruptcy. Licensed Insolvency Trustee fees are regulated by Industry Canada and set by a government tariff. Payment plans are available to break down the cost over the term of the bankruptcy. Consultations with a Licensed Insolvency Trustee to discuss your situation and evaluate debt options are always free.

Bankruptcy and Tax Debt

Bankruptcy in BC can include the elimination or negotiation of tax debts owed to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), including income taxes, GST, and employee remittances. Bankruptcy stops collection actions, such as wage seizures or bank account freezes, initiated by the CRA. However, it is important to review the rights and remedies of the CRA in your specific situation, especially if they have registered as a secured creditor against your property.

Bankruptcy and Student Loans

Student loans, whether federal, provincial, or private, can be discharged by filing for bankruptcy in BC. Bankruptcy is one of the few options to eliminate or negotiate government student loan debts. Private bank-held student loans are treated similarly to other unsecured debts and can be forgiven through the bankruptcy process. The timing of your bankruptcy filing and the length of time since your studies determine whether government student loans are fully discharged or require repayment after the bankruptcy.

Duties and Discharge in Bankruptcy

To be discharged from bankruptcy, individuals must fulfill certain duties as outlined in the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act. These duties include attending financial counseling sessions, submitting a monthly statement of income and expenses, remitting surplus income if required, providing necessary information for tax returns, and keeping the trustee informed of address changes. Discharge from bankruptcy typically occurs after nine months, provided all duties are completed. Repeat bankruptcies may require a longer period before discharge.

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Conclusion

Declaring bankruptcy in BC is a significant decision that should be made after exploring all available debt solutions and understanding the potential consequences. This comprehensive guide has provided insights into the bankruptcy process, alternatives to bankruptcy, and key considerations for individuals in financial distress. Whether you choose bankruptcy or pursue an alternative debt solution, consulting with a Licensed Insolvency Trustee is crucial for personalized advice and guidance. Remember, bankruptcy can provide a fresh start, but it is essential to consider all options and make an informed decision that aligns with your financial goals and circumstances.

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The weight of my credit debt had become unbearable, leading to incessant calls and letters from debt collectors and an immense amount of stress. It felt as though there was no escape from this predicament. However, my perspective changed when I came across Bankruptcy Canada on a local radio talk show. I found them to be compassionate, knowledgeable, professional, and highly experienced in their field.

In our first meeting, they took an interest in understanding my financial situation and the nature of my debt. They patiently explained the different strategies I could use and helped me formulate a bespoke plan that would work best for me. With their guidance, I was able to steer clear of bankruptcy by presenting a consumer proposal to my creditors. To my relief, the proposal was accepted, liberating me from my debt. I owe my newfound freedom and lighter burden to BankruptcyCanada. I am convinced that Bankruptcy Canada houses some of the most competent experts in debt relief.

Bob

Kelowna, BC