Understanding the Impact of Corporate Bankruptcy on Personal Credit
When a business faces financial hardship, bankruptcy is often viewed as a final resort. However, one alarming question that arises in the minds of business owners is, “How does corporate bankruptcy affect personal credit?”
This article delves into the intricate relationship between corporate bankruptcy and personal credit, exploring different factors that may influence the impact on your personal financial standing.
1. Corporate Bankruptcy – An Overview
In simplest terms, corporate bankruptcy refers to the legal state of insolvency for a business entity. It’s a formal acknowledgment by a corporation that it’s unable to repay its debts.
According to data, over 20,000 businesses resort to filing bankruptcy annually, viewing it as a lifeline amidst deep financial distress. However, the implications of such a decision extend beyond the business itself, potentially affecting the personal credit of business owners or directors.
2. Corporate Bankruptcy vs Personal Bankruptcy
Every individual and company owns assets, and under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act (BIA), they have the right to file for bankruptcy. However, the repercussions differ based on whether the bankruptcy is personal or corporate.
In personal bankruptcy, the individual is fully accountable for the debt. However, in corporate bankruptcy, the company is perceived as a separate legal entity. Although some debts may be written off, directors might still be personally liable for certain debts, such as those with personal guarantees.
For self-employed individuals operating as sole traders, business and personal finances are considered a single legal entity. Therefore, any business debt is viewed as personal debt.
3. The Influence of Corporate Bankruptcy on Personal Credit
Several factors determine how corporate bankruptcy affects personal credit. These include:
3.1 Personal Guarantees
When applying for credit or loans, lenders often ask business owners to sign personal guarantees, making them personally liable for repayment. In the event of corporate bankruptcy, this unpaid debt can negatively affect the owner’s personal credit score.
3.2 Business Tax
Unpaid business taxes, such as sales tax, usually remain uncovered during the corporate bankruptcy process. Hence, business owners end up liable for this unpaid tax, which can harm their personal credit score.
4. Duration of Impact of Corporate Bankruptcy on Personal Credit
The aftermath of filing for corporate bankruptcy can linger on your personal or business credit history for a minimum of six years or until you’ve been discharged. This could pose challenges when applying for credit since lenders might be hesitant to lend to someone who has declared bankruptcy.
5. Instances of No Personal Liability for Company Debt
If you’re a company director outside a partnership or sole trader arrangement, you won’t be personally liable for the company’s debt. In the case of limited companies, the liabilities fall solely on the company, ensuring no effect on the directors’ personal credit.
6. Avoiding Corporate Bankruptcy
Bankruptcy is a final resort for business owners who are unable to pay their debts. It’s always advisable to consult with a licensed trustee or debt relief specialist who can assess your financial situation and suggest alternatives before resorting to bankruptcy.
Note that if you continue to trade and accumulate more debt after the company has become insolvent, you then become personally liable for any new debt. If a director knowingly continues to amass debt despite the company’s inability to recover, it’s considered fraudulent trading.
7. The Role of Debt Relief Specialists
A team of Licensed Insolvency Trustees can provide effective debt solutions and support you through financial difficulties. They can offer more information about corporate bankruptcy services and guide you through the process.
8. Conclusion
The question, “How does corporate bankruptcy affect personal credit?” is multifaceted. The impact is determined by various factors, including the type of business entity, personal guarantees, tax liabilities, and more.
Always seek professional advice to understand all potential implications and explore possible alternatives before deciding on corporate bankruptcy. Timely consultation and informed decision-making can save both your business and personal credit from severe damage.