Does a Consumer Proposal Affect My Credit Score?
Yes, filing a consumer proposal will affect your credit score. Your score reflects your past payment history, and entering a consumer proposal signals to lenders that you were unable to meet your original repayment terms. That said, many people who consider a consumer proposal already have missed payments, collection activity, or maxed-out credit accounts affecting their score. In those cases, a consumer proposal can actually stop the downward spiral. By eliminating ongoing late payments and stopping interest, it creates a clear path to financial recovery and rebuilding.
Does a Consumer Proposal Affect My Mortgage?
If your mortgage is in good standing and you continue making your payments, then your current mortgage should not be affected by a consumer proposal. Mortgages are secured debts, meaning they are tied to your home, while consumer proposals primarily deal with unsecured debts. However, your ability to refinance or renew your mortgage during the consumer proposal may be affected depending on your lender’s policies. Some lenders may renew an existing mortgage without an issue, while others may require additional information before they consider a renewal. Refinancing, on the other hand, is often not possible because it means borrowing additional money on your mortgage. If you are considering a consumer proposal and own a home, it is important to review the details carefully to understand how your specific mortgage could be impacted.
Get Debt Relief from Your Mortgage
Can a Consumer Proposal Be Amended?
Yes, a consumer proposal can be amended if your financial circumstances change. If you experience job loss, reduced income, or another hardship that makes your payments unaffordable, reach out to your Licensed Insolvency Trustee. They can propose a modification to your creditors.
Creditors must vote to accept the amended terms, just like they did with the original proposal. Acting early is key. If you fall three months behind on payments, the consumer proposal is automatically annulled and you may need to consider filing for bankruptcy. Communicating quickly with your Licensed Insolvency Trustee can help preserve your agreement and keep you on track toward completing it successfully.
Wrapping Up the FAQs About Consumer Proposals and How to Get Help
If you’re wondering whether a consumer proposal is right for your situation, it can help to speak with an unbiased professional first, someone who can review your full financial picture and give you their honest opinion. An accredited credit counsellor will help you understand every option you have available, as well as how each would work given your current financial situation and your goals. Understanding your options in detail allowed you to make an informed decision and move forward with confidence.
Related: Consumer Proposal versus Bankruptcy: What is the Difference?
Read the full article here
