When you’re grappling with debt, it’s crucial to know which professional can provide the right debt management solutions. The primary options often boil down to Debt Consultants or Licensed Insolvency Trustees. But who exactly are these professionals, and how do they differ? This article delves into the distinctions between these two roles, their modus operandi, and their potential benefits and drawbacks.
Who are Licensed Insolvency Trustees (LITs)?
Licensed Insolvency Trustees, often referred to as bankruptcy trustees, are certified professionals who are licensed by the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy (OSB) to administer bankruptcies and proposals.
They have undergone rigorous training to provide financial advice and services to both individuals and businesses facing debt challenges. Their qualifications are recognized by governing bodies like the OSB and the Canadian Association of Insolvency and Restructuring Professionals (CAIRP).
Role of LITs
LITs have a broad spectrum of responsibilities. They can help you identify the most suitable debt management solutions, explain the debt management process in detail, and guide you throughout the journey. They are also authorized to administer insolvency procedures, such as proposals or bankruptcies, that can help you overcome debt.
LITs: A Regulated Profession
LITs follow a structured business model. They are bound by federal level regulations when it comes to fees, meaning they cannot legally overcharge you. If you are dissatisfied with a trustee’s performance, you can lodge a complaint using a formal complaint mechanism.
Who are Debt Consultants?
Unlike LITs, debt consultants are not regulated by the OSB. They aren’t required to have any formal training or relevant background to provide their services.
Role of Debt Consultants
Debt consultants offer advice on handling debts. However, they cannot help you file consumer proposals or bankruptcies, or serve as bankruptcy trustees in insolvency cases.
Debt Consultants: A Loosely Regulated Profession
Since debt consultants are unregulated, there are very few restrictions on what they can charge for their service. This lack of regulation can lead to consumers paying unnecessary, and often very high, consulting fees.
How do LITs and Debt Consultants Approach Debt Handling?
Both LITs and debt consultants have different approaches to managing your debt. Let’s take a closer look.
Approach of Debt Consultants
Debt consultants often advise their clients to set aside money in a separate bank account until they can pay off their creditors. While this method has its merits, it doesn’t offer any protection from collection actions and wage garnishment until you have saved up the necessary amount.
Approach of LITs
LITs are equipped with multiple tools to help you manage your debt. They’re ethically obligated to present the best option for your needs and can also file proposals and bankruptcies. These legal procedures stop collection actions and wage garnishments and can help you reduce the amount you owe to your creditors.
Choosing the Right Professional: Points to Consider
When deciding between Debt Consultants or Licensed Insolvency Trustees, it’s essential to consider several factors.
- Regulation and Oversight: LITs are regulated by the OSB, while debt consultants are not. This means you have more protection and recourse when working with an LIT.
- Fees: Debt consultants can charge whatever they want for their services, while LITs’ fees are regulated at a federal level.
- Authority to Administer Insolvency Procedures: Only LITs are authorized to administer insolvency procedures like proposals or bankruptcies.
- Qualifications: LITs are certified professionals, while debt consultants do not need any formal training or relevant background.
Conclusion: Who to Trust?
When it comes to selecting between Debt Consultants or Licensed Insolvency Trustees, it’s critical to conduct thorough research and analysis. While both professionals provide debt management solutions, their methods, qualifications, and regulations differ significantly.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific needs, expectations, and financial situation. However, given the regulated nature of LITs and their ability to administer insolvency procedures, they are often the trusted choice for many individuals grappling with debt.
