Debt Consolidation: Not For Everyone

By Author: zeenbindro
Total Articles: 16
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Debt is a common problem in most Canadian households. Luckily, there are many options available to those who qualify. However, the choices and options available have the potential to greatly affect personal credit rating for many years. For this reason, it is exceptionally important for those in financial distress to educate themselves on the options available to them, and take the time to discuss options such as debt consolidation loan and consumer proposals with a qualified financial expert.
For those overwhelmed by debt, particularly high interest credit card debt or unsecured loans, there are many options available. Two of the options that must be considered before all other are consumer proposal and debt consolidation loan. Each solution will alleviate some of the burdens associated with maintaining a heavy debt load; however, each comes with distinct benefits and disadvantages. The severity of the debtor’s financial situation should be judged to determine which option is best suited to meet their needs.
The principles of debt consolidation loan involve the ...
... combination of each of the debtor’s high interest creditors and combining them into a single low monthly payment. Beneficially, the interest and on-going maintenance charges that were being made on several accounts have now been amalgamated into a single payment with only one maintenance charge. This will enable debtors to save a great deal of money each month on their debt payments. However, it also involves applying for more credit, which if not watched closely, could result in further debt and more delinquent accounts.
A consumer proposal, on the other hand, is a viable bankruptcy alternative. Keep in mind that it is still consumer proposal, the debtor is not admitting their inability to meet their financial obligations, but rather stating that negotiations are necessary to restructure the debt and reduce the principle balance so that it can be repaid. Once a proposal has been submitted, the credit companies must then begin dealing with the bankruptcy trustee directly and cease all contact with the debtor. A proposal is deemed accepted if more than 25% of creditors agree to the terms. It is important to remember that filing a proposal will have a negative impact on personal credit rating, however, not nearly as negative as a bankruptcy and once the terms have been met it is possible to begin rebuilding credit worthiness slowly. All in all, negotiating a proposal will provide a clean slate without needing to go bankrupt.
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Two of the options that must be considered before all other are consumer proposals and debt consolidation loan. Each solution will alleviate some of the burdens associated with maintaining a heavy debt load; however, each comes with distinct benefits and disadvantages. The severity of the debtor’s financial situation should be judged to determine which option is best suited to meet their needs.