Debt

Links to resources for information about how you can deal with debt without declaring bankruptcy.

Explains that it’s important to deal with some debts before others. It explains “priority debts” (which should be paid as soon as possible), secured debts, and limitation periods, and explains where you can get help if your debt problem is urgent. It describes the steps you can take to deal with your debt. It also answers some common questions.

This brochure outlines a consumer’s insolvency options when they are facing challenging financial times, and explains that Licensed Insolvency Trustees (LITs) are the only qualified professionals authorized to administer insolvency proceedings.

Information for people in debt about how to deal with creditors and collection agencies, including how to put an end to collection calls. Includes sample letters to the creditors.

This page links to information about getting a credit card, getting a credit card you never asked for, what to do if your credit card is lost or stolen, and disputing a credit card bill.

If you’re behind on debt payments, there are laws to protect you from harassment by collectors. For example, collectors can’t use threatening language or contact you during certain times of day.

Consumer Protection BC regulates the debt collection and repayment industry. The website offers information on your rights and obligations around debt-collection practices. Includes links on how to dispute a debt, request communication in writing only, or notify a collection agency that you are not the debtor.

If you can’t pay your loan, the creditor may seek to take your property to satisfy the debt. Learn your rights if a creditor wants to repossess (or seize) your property.

Explains how your creditor can take some of your wages or money from your bank account, the laws to protect you, and what benefits are protected from garnishment. It explains how to apply to set aside a garnishing order, how to file and serve the application, and what could happen at a court hearing.

Information for people in debt about how to deal with creditors and collection agencies, including how to put an end to collection calls. Includes sample letters to the creditors.

Occasionally, those who work or supply materials on a construction project aren’t paid for the work or materials supplied. A “builders lien” can help them collect the money they’re owed.

Before lending money to someone, a lender may ask for someone else to “co-sign” or “guarantee” the loan. Learn what to consider if you’re asked to co-sign or guarantee a loan.

Practical information on your rights and responsibilities when lending money to a family member or a friend.

No one enjoys it when they’re owed money and don’t get paid. Learn the options available to you when collecting on a debt, and the steps to deal with the situation.

If a notice of claim names you as a defendant in a small claims court lawsuit, learn what options you have, how to act on them, and what happens next.

The Solution Explorer is the first step in the online Civil Resolution Tribunal (CRT) process, with free legal information and self-help tools. You can apply to the CRT for small claims dispute resolution right from the Solution Explorer.

Practical, step-by-step information on your legal rights and options to get out of debt. Topics include budgeting out of debt, consolidating your debts, negotiating payment terms, negotiating a debt settlement, making a consumer proposal, declaring bankruptcy, and people who can help.

This website tells you about the options you have to help manage your debt. Topics include dealing with creditors, getting out of debt, credit counselling, debt consolidation, debt settlement, consumer proposal, and bankruptcy.

A problem-solving manual for legal advocates, paralegals, and lawyers in BC helping clients with consumer or debt problems. It covers over 45 topics on problems people experience with consumer purchases, contracts, borrowing money, and being in debt. This page links to the Wikibook and e-book and where to order print copies.

Consumer Protection BC regulates a variety of industries and specific consumer transactions in the province. They license and inspect regulated businesses, respond to consumer inquiries, investigate alleged violations of consumer protection laws, and classify general-release motion pictures.

This chapter is from the manual used by law students handling cases at LSLAP’s legal clinics. It provides a summary of the law relating to debt and debtors’ rights, collections agencies, court order enforcement, and bankruptcy.