Dealing with debt can be overwhelming and stressful, and finding the right solution can be a challenge. One option for managing debt without filing for a bankruptcy is a consumer proposal (CP). In this blog, learn the pros and cons of consumer proposals, and determine whether it’s the right choice for you. 

What is a Consumer Proposal?

A consumer proposal is a legal process that allows you to negotiate with your creditors to pay back a portion of your debt over a set period of time. In Canada, consumer proposals are administered by a licensed insolvency trustee, which CreditLift is not a licensed insolvency trustee but you have a right to have someone guide you and assist you for what’s in your best interest. Once you file a consumer proposal, your creditors are prevented from pursuing legal action against you, and you can work towards paying off your debts.

Credit Lift is not a Licensed Insolvency Trustee. Our role is to help you discover the options available to you to become debt free and stay debt free. 

Pros

Debt Reduction

One of the biggest benefits of a consumer proposal is that it allows you to reduce your debt. By negotiating with your creditors, you may be able to reduce your debt by up to 70% or more.

Protection from Creditors

When you file a consumer proposal, you are protected from legal action by your creditors. This means that they can’t garnish your wages or seize your assets.

Flexible Payment Plans

Consumer proposals allow for flexible payment plans, which can be tailored to your individual needs and financial situation. This can make it easier to manage your debts and stay on track with your payments.

You can begin the process of rebuilding credit while you’re in a proposal. You do not have to wait to be discharged to start rebuilding credit

Cons

Negative Impact on Credit Score

Filing a CP has a negative impact on your credit score, which can make it more difficult to obtain credit in the near future. However, it is not permanent and credit is rebuildable. The impact is generally less severe than filing for bankruptcy.

Fees

There are fees associated with filing a CP even if it’s built into your repayment plan you still need to be aware that this is not a free process. If anyone says otherwise, they are not being honest and truthful and you need to get a second opinion elsewhere

Required Income

To be eligible for a CP, you must have a steady source of income. If you don’t have a regular income, you may not be able to qualify for this option.

Is a Consumer Proposal Right for You?

Consumer proposals can be a good option for those who are struggling with debt and are looking for a way to reduce their overall debt load. However, it’s important to consider all of the pros and cons before making a decision. If you’re considering a consumer proposal, it’s important to get professional help. CreditLift can help you discover the options available to you to become debt free and stay debt free.

Learn more about Consumer Proposals on the Canadian Government’s website.

To discover how CreditLift can help you get out of debt, reach out to us now. 

The impact of debt on your physical health might be worse than you originally thought. Debt is a growing concern for many Canadians. Recent studies show that high levels of debt can lead to mental health issues like anxiety and depression. However, the impact of debt on physical health is often overlooked. In this post, we’ll explore recent Canadian studies that have examined the connection between debt and physical health, and offer practical solutions to help those who are struggling.

The Link Between Debt and Physical Health

A study conducted by the Canadian Psychological Association in 2018 found that high levels of debt were associated with a range of physical issues. These can include headaches, stomach problems, and muscle tension. The study also found that individuals with high levels of debt were more likely to report chronic pain and overall poor physical fitness.

Another Canadian study published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research in 2019 found that high levels of debt were associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes. The study found that the stress of debt can lead to changes in the body’s stress response system. That in turn can contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease.

The Impact of Debt on Sleep

Debt can also have a significant impact on sleep, which can further exacerbate these issues. A Canadian study published in the Journal of Sleep Research in 2017 found that individuals with high levels of debt were more likely to report poor sleep quality, and to experience sleep disturbances like insomnia.

Poor sleep quality has been linked to a range of physical health issues, including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. This suggests that the impact of debt on sleep can have significant long-term consequences for physical well-being.

Strategies for Managing Debt-Related Physical Health Issues

Managing debt-related physical health issues requires a multi-faceted approach. Seeking professional support from a healthcare provider is crucial in addressing chronic pain, sleep disturbances, and other physical health concerns.

Creating a budget and setting financial goals can also be helpful in managing debt-related stress, which can in turn alleviate some of the physical health issues associated with debt. Practicing self-care, like exercise and meditation, can also help to alleviate physical symptoms and improve overall well-being.

The Importance of Seeking Help

It’s essential to recognize the importance of seeking help for debt-related physical health issues. Addressing these issues together can be a key part of finding long-term solutions and improving overall quality of life. If you or someone you know is struggling with their physical well-being related to debt, don’t hesitate to reach out for support and resources.

Suicide Prevention Hotline – 1.833.456.4566.

Calgary Counselling Centre – Open to all Albertans

 Canadian Mental Health Association

Debt can have a significant impact on physical fitness, leading to issues like chronic pain, sleep disturbances, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. By understanding the link between debt and physical health, individuals can take practical steps to address these issues and improve their overall well-being. With resources and support available, there’s no need to struggle alone.

Read more on the connection between debt and your well-being in this posts below.

Women and Debt: The Mental Health Toll

Debt and Men’s Mental Health: Why it Matters

Debt and Mental Health Effects on Children

Debt consolidation can be an effective way to manage multiple debts and make payments more manageable. However, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding consolidating your debt that can make it difficult to know whether it’s the right choice for you. In this blog post, we’ll be debunking five common myths about debt consolidation in Canada to help you make an informed decision about your financial future.

The Five Myths

Myth #1: Debt consolidation is only for people with bad credit.

Fact-check: This option is not just for people with bad credit. In fact, people with good credit may be able to qualify for lower interest rates and better loan terms. Combining your debts together can be helpful for anyone who is struggling with multiple debts, regardless of their credit score.

Myth #2: Debt consolidation is the same as debt settlement.

Fact-check: Debt consolidation and debt settlement are two different options for dealing with debt. The first involves taking out a new loan or line of credit to pay off multiple debts, while debt settlement involves negotiating with creditors to pay back less than what you owe.

Myth #3: Consolidating your debt always lowers your interest rate.

Fact-check: While merging all your debts into one single debt can often lead to a lower interest rate, this is not always the case. It’s important to shop around and compare interest rates from multiple lenders to ensure that you’re getting the best deal. Additionally, some debt consolidation loans may have hidden fees or charges, so it’s important to read the fine print carefully.

Myth #4: Debt consolidation will solve all of your financial problems.

Fact-check: Debt consolidation is a tool for managing your debts, but it won’t necessarily solve all of your financial problems. It’s important to address the underlying issues that led to your debt in the first place, such as overspending or a lack of budgeting skills. Additionally, if you continue to accumulate debt after consolidating, you may find yourself in an even worse financial situation than before.

Myth #5: You need to own a home to consolidate your debts.

Fact-check: While some debt consolidation options, such as home equity loans, require you to own a home, there are many other options available that don’t require home ownership. For example, you may be able to consolidate your debts with a personal loan or a line of credit.

Debt consolidation can be a powerful tool for managing debt, but it’s important to separate fact from fiction when considering this option. By debunking these five myths, we hope to help you make a more informed decision about whether debt consolidation is right for you. Remember, it’s always important to seek out professional advice and guidance from CreditLift, to ensure that you’re making the best decision for your unique financial situation.

Introduction

Debt and mental health issues are significant concerns for many Canadians, and there is a growing body of research that shows a strong link between the two. In this post, we’ll explore recent Canadian studies that have examined the connection between mental health and debt, and offer practical solutions to help those who are struggling.

The Impact of Debt on Mental Health

A Canadian study published in the International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction in 2019 found that Canadians with debt problems were more likely to experience suicidal thoughts.

This suggests that the stress of debt can have a significant impact on mental health, leading to symptoms like depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. The financial strain of debt can also lead to social isolation, relationship problems, and physical health issues, further exacerbating mental health concerns.

The Impact of Mental Health on Debt

Mental health issues can also have a significant impact on debt. A Canadian study published in the Journal of Consumer Affairs in 2017 found that individuals with mental health problems were more likely to use high-cost borrowing methods, like payday loans, and to struggle with managing their finances.

Another Canadian study published in the Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease in 2018 found that individuals with mental health problems were more likely to have difficulty accessing credit, and to have lower credit scores, which can lead to higher interest rates and further financial strain.

Strategies for Addressing Mental Health and Debt

For those struggling with mental health and debt, seeking professional support is crucial. The Canadian Mental Health Association and Credit Counselling Canada offer resources and support for those who are struggling with these issues.

Creating a budget and setting financial goals can also be helpful in managing debt-related stress. Practicing self-care, like exercising and getting enough sleep, can also help to alleviate some of the mental health issues associated with debt.

The Importance of Seeking Help

It’s essential to recognize the importance of seeking help for both mental health and debt issues. Addressing both issues together can be a key part of finding long-term solutions and improving overall quality of life. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or debt issues, don’t hesitate to reach out for support and resources.

Conclusion

Debt and mental health issues are serious concerns for many Canadians. By understanding the link between the two and taking practical steps to address them, individuals can find long-term solutions and improve their overall well-being. With resources and support available, there’s no need to struggle alone.

Additional Resources:

Suicide Prevention Hotline – 1.833.456.4566.

Calgary Counselling Centre – Open to all Albertans

 Canadian Mental Health Association

Read more about mental health and debt on our site:

Filing taxes can be a daunting task, and it’s not uncommon for individuals and businesses to fall behind on their tax obligations. If you or someone you know is facing CRA tax debt, it’s important to take action and seek help. The consequences of not filing taxes can be severe, including interest and penalties, legal action, and damage to credit scores. But with CreditLift, there’s no need to fear. We’re here to help you get back on track and achieve financial freedom.

Tax Deadlines in 2023

Before we dive into how CreditLift can help with CRA tax debt, let’s review the important tax deadlines for 2023:

Personal Income Tax Returns: April 30, 2024

Self-Employed Income Tax Returns: June 17, 2024

Corporate Income Tax Returns: Within six months of the fiscal year-end

If you’re unable to file your taxes by the deadline, it’s important to file an extension to avoid late-filing penalties.

To learn more about CRA tax deadlines, click here.

Consequences of Not Filing Taxes

Not filing your taxes can have serious consequences, including:

Interest and penalties: The CRA charges interest on any unpaid amounts owed, and penalties for late-filing or late-payment can add up quickly.

Legal action: The CRA can take legal action to collect unpaid taxes, including garnishing wages, seizing assets, and freezing bank accounts.

Damage to credit score: Unpaid tax debts can negatively impact your credit score, making it difficult to secure loans, credit cards, and even rent an apartment.

How CreditLift Can Help

CreditLift offers a range of services to help individuals and businesses dealing with CRA tax debt. We can help you negotiate with the CRA, set up a payment plan, and provide guidance on how to avoid future tax debt. Our team of experts has years of experience helping clients with tax debt, and we’re dedicated to providing compassionate and effective solutions.

CreditLift’s Tax Debt Success Stories

Don’t just take our word for it. Here are some examples of how CreditLift has helped clients dealing with CRA tax debt:

“I was facing a hefty tax bill from the CRA and didn’t know where to turn. CreditLift not only helped me negotiate a payment plan, but they also provided me with valuable advice on how to avoid future tax debt. I’m so grateful for their help!” – John S.

“Thanks to CreditLift, I was able to settle my tax debt with the CRA and avoid legal action. They were patient, understanding, and went above and beyond to ensure my financial success. I highly recommend their services.” – Sarah K.

If you or someone you know is dealing with CRA tax debt, don’t hesitate to reach out to CreditLift for help. Our team is ready to assist you and provide you with the support you need to achieve financial freedom.

If you need help with your debt, click here for a free consultation.

When it comes to budgeting and debt, many people experience stress and anxiety. But for those with ADHD, the struggle can be especially difficult. ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a person’s ability to focus, organize, and manage tasks. These symptoms can make managing finances and debt incredibly challenging. However we can help!

One of the biggest struggles for those with ADHD is impulsivity. People with ADHD often have difficulty delaying gratification, which can lead to impulsive spending and overspending. This can result in accumulating debt and financial hardship. Additionally, people with ADHD may struggle with keeping track of their spending, bills, and other financial obligations. They may forget to pay bills on time or overlook important financial information.

Another challenge for those with ADHD is the ability to plan and budget effectively. People with ADHD often struggle with organization and time management, which can make it difficult to create a budget and stick to it. They may also have difficulty planning for the future, which can lead to overspending and debt.

For those with ADHD, managing finances and debt requires a unique approach.

Tips to Help You with Budgeting and ADHD

Create a routine:

Establishing a routine can help people with ADHD stay organized and focused. Set aside specific times each week to review your finances, pay bills, and check your accounts.

Use technology:

There are many apps and tools available that can help you manage your finances. Use budgeting apps, automatic bill pay, and alerts to help you stay on track. 

Seek help:

If you’re struggling with debt, don’t be afraid to seek help. Talk to a financial mentor who can help you create a plan to pay off your debts and manage your finances more effectively

Set goals:

Setting goals can help motivate you to manage your finances more effectively. Create short-term and long-term goals, such as paying off a credit card or saving for a vacation.

Use a cash-only system:

For people with ADHD, it can be easy to lose track of spending when using credit cards or online payment methods. To combat this, try using a cash-only system for a period of time. Withdraw a set amount of cash each week and use it for all your expenses. This can help you stay more aware of your spending and avoid overspending

Set up automatic savings:

Saving money can be difficult for anyone, but it can be especially challenging for those with ADHD. Setting up automatic savings can make the process easier. Set up a recurring transfer from your checking account to your savings account on a regular basis. This can help you build up savings without having to actively think about it

Use a visual budgeting system:

Traditional budgeting methods can be overwhelming and difficult for people with ADHD to follow. Instead, try using a visual budgeting system. Use a whiteboard, chalkboard, or bulletin board to create a visual representation of your budget. This can help you stay focused and motivated while also keeping your finances organized.

Break down tasks into smaller steps:

People with ADHD often struggle with getting started on tasks, which can make managing finances feel overwhelming. Break down financial tasks into smaller steps, such as reviewing bills or creating a budget. This can make the tasks feel more manageable and help you stay focused

Incorporate movement into financial tasks:

For some people with ADHD, incorporating movement into tasks can help improve focus and concentration. Try pacing while reviewing bills or taking a walk while listening to financial podcasts. This can help you stay engaged and focused while managing your finances.

Use a reward system:

For some people with ADHD, using a reward system can be an effective way to stay motivated. Set a financial goal, such as paying off a credit card or saving for a trip, and reward yourself when you achieve it. This can help you stay focused and motivated while also improving your finances.

These tips may not work for everyone, but they can be a great starting point for people with ADHD who are struggling to manage their finances. Remember that managing finances is a process and it may take time to find what works best for you. Be patient and persistent, and you can achieve financial stability.

If budgeting alone isn’t enough to help you get your finances back on track, reach out to us for a free consultation. 

CreditLift is committed to building strong communities by educating and equipping Canadians to achieve financial freedom.

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