You may have heard that bankruptcy is one way to get out of debt when you’ve lost control of your bills.
But, if you’re considering filing bankruptcy in Manitoba, you may have questions. And that’s good. It isn’t a decision to rush into.
Bankruptcy is a court-supervised process that, in most cases, eliminates your unsecured debt, including financial obligations that have no property attached – things like your credit cards and utility bills.
It’s designed for people who are unable to repay the money they owe.
In order to declare bankruptcy, you have to work with a Licensed Insolvency Trustee – like the ones at LCTaylor.
The Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy – or OSB – licenses and regulates the profession to make sure that the rights of all parties – including yours – are respected.
Let’s take a look at the five basic steps:
Step 1: Meet With A Trustee
The first thing you’ll do is meet with a Trustee. The Trustee’s job is to review your situation and help you explore all of your options – including bankruptcy.
Step 2: Prepare Paperwork
Next, if you’ve decided that Bankruptcy is your best option, the Trustee, with your input, will draft the necessary paperwork.
Remember, bankruptcy only goes forward when you sign the documents. It’s your decision.
Step 3: File Paperwork
Once the documents are signed, the Trustee files the paperwork and your creditors are notified. At this point, all collection activity and wage garnishment stops. And you can breathe a little easier.
Step 4: Fulfill Bankruptcy Duties
There are some things you’re responsible for doing during bankruptcy.
For example, you’ll submit monthly income and expense statements. Keeping track of your income and expenses is an important first step in regaining your financial fitness.
You’ll also attend two financial counselling sessions to help you stay on course.
Your Trustee will explain these, and any other responsibilities, in greater detail before you declare bankruptcy.
Step 5: Discharge Bankruptcy
So your next question might be: How long does bankruptcy last?
For a first time bankruptcy, you could receive what’s called an automatic discharge in as little as nine months. That means you don’t have to file more paperwork or appear in court.
Bankruptcy may not be the right option for everyone, but, for many, it can provide a clear path forward when there wasn’t one before.
To discover if bankruptcy is right for you, start by calling LCTaylor, Licensed Insolvency Trustee. We have been helping people just like you for over 25 years, and we can help you make an informed decision.
Call LCTaylor now for a free financial consultation. Your debt rescue starts here.