Resolving Bad Credit – How To

Hi folks! Time to simplify my favourite topic – getting out of high interest or overdue debt. Let’s dive in

Concept Overview

The refinance + exit-to-A strategy is the structured two-stage recovery plan designed for employed consumers showing early or moderate credit distress. In the first stage — the credit-restoring refinance — the client replaces their delinquent balance(s) with a new loan with only one purpose in mind at this stage: eliminating arrears on your credit report. The goal here isn’t to chase the lowest rate (that’s 30 days later) but to stabilize payment behaviour and create fresh, positive data points on the credit file.

One month (30 days) or more later, the process enters the second and most important stage — the exit to an A-tier lender (any bank or credit union, except your current bank). At this point, improved credit positions the client to qualify for prime-market aka low interest credit again. This “exit” is where long-term savings are realized when the borrower transitions out of higher interest pricing, reducing interest costs dramatically, and restoring mainstream credit access. The two stages together form a bridge from reactive damage control to durable financial rehabilitation, all in a short period of time.


Communicating the Idea

Most consumers with developing credit issues struggle to understand why they should refinance twice. The best framing is to present the process as a short bridge to prime credit. The first half of the bridge repairs the record; the second half gets them back to normal credit pricing. Without that bridge, they remain stuck in the penalty box — paying inflated rates and carrying the stigma of late payments for years. Trying to survive with bad credit creates extreme difficulty in obtaining quality employment, quality residential rental, even obtaining a fairly priced mobile phone plan. The analogy is a cast on a broken bone. You wouldn’t hesitate to put a cast on a broken bone BUT you also wouldn’t leave the cast on for months or years after the damage is repaired. Two steps.


Tangible Benefits

CategoryClient-Centric BenefitProfessional Mechanism
Cash-flow reliefLower blended monthly payment, single due dateReduces service charges, late fees, and payment friction
Score recovery within one cycleR-ratings stop aging; new account reports “paid as agreed”Credit reportss re-weight recent performance heavily
Interest cost normalizationTransition high interest to low interestMeasurable monthly savings and total cost reduction
Leverage for A-exitDocumented 30+ day clean track recordProof of performance
Psychological resetSense of control; fewer paymentsBehavioural: reduces overload

When the Strategy Should Be Avoided

The refinance+ exit-to-A approach is powerful but not universal. It should be avoided when the consumer is unemployed — in those cases, a short-term hardship plan provides a safer path. The essence of wisdom here is timing: a refinance is a tool for stability, not a lifeline for chronic financial mismanagement.


Related Posts

DGB


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DEBT CONSOLIDATION

Avoid Being Scammed

Hi folks! The world is full of scammers these days. Many of the less sophisticated scams can be avoided simply by improving your financial literacy. Others, however, are more elaborate such as an unexpected deposit in your bank account. These schemes prey on trust and quick reactions, targeting everyone from students to business owners.


The Overpayment and E-Transfer Trap

A common version of this scam begins with what appears to be a legitimate Interac e-Transfer or direct deposit. Soon after, you receive a message claiming the payment was made in error — perhaps due to a payroll mix-up or wrong email. The sender politely asks you to return the funds.

However, the initial transfer is often fraudulent and is later reversed, meaning any refund you send comes straight from your own pocket. Once you send the money back, the scammer disappears.


Other Common Scams

Business and Payroll Impersonation

More advanced scammers target small business owners and professionals by impersonating legitimate companies, vendors, or even government departments. They use convincing invoices, cloned email domains, and real-looking paperwork to make the payment appear authentic.

Because these transactions mirror real business processes, even detail-oriented or financially experienced Canadians can fall for them.


Investment and Crypto Bait

Some scams come disguised as investment or cryptocurrency profits. Victims receive what looks like a trading “return” or a bonus credited to their account. The message may ask them to deposit a verification fee or make a small top-up to release the full payout.

These schemes often target Canadians who already invest online, blending fake profits with just enough realism to seem plausible.


Refund and Rebate Hoaxes

In another common version, scammers pose as the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), telecom companies, or banks. They claim you’ve received a refund or rebate by mistake and must send the money back immediately to avoid “legal consequences.”

This sense of urgency is their weapon — prompting victims to act before verifying.


How to Protect Yourself

  • Never return money from unexpected deposits — banks can handle legitimate errors directly.
  • Contact your financial institution through verified channels if a suspicious payment appears.
  • Ignore refund requests involving e-transfers, cryptocurrency, or prepaid cards.
  • Report all incidents to both your bank and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC).

Scammers rely on confusion. If money lands in your account unexpectedly, the smartest move is to pause and verify before you act.

DGB


Legal disclaimer: The material provided on this web site is for general information purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal advice.


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DEBT CONSOLIDATION

Canadian Mortgages – Designed to fail

Hi folks! Here’s a topic all Canadians can appreciate because increased housing cost means higher rents:

Pushed Into Early Sale

Short contract terms → frequent renewals and payment shock

Canadian borrowers typically sign mortgage terms that are short relative to the amortization, usually 5-year terms, after which the borrower must renew with the lender. The Bank of Canada notes that a large share of outstanding mortgages are 5-year term mortgages, and roughly 60% of outstanding mortgages are scheduled to renew in 2025–26, exposing many households to a sudden payment increase if market rates rise or in the even of a lower credit score or work disruption. When payments increase, some households must cut other spending, refinance under worse terms, or sell, which causes numerous early sales throughout Canada on a regular basis.

Prepayment penalties

Most Canadian closed fixed-rate mortgages impose a prepayment penalty that is the greater of three months’ interest or the Interest Rate Differential (IRD). This is intended to compensate a lender for lost interest when a borrower breaks a fixed-rate term early and is frequently much larger than three months’ interest when market rates are lower than the original contract rate. The Financial Consumer Agency explains that prepayment penalties discourages early refinances with another lender and can make selling or transferring a mortgage expensive and legally complex, effectively forcing some owners to sell rather than alter financing. The consequence being that homeowners who might otherwise refinance to avoid sale face steep costs to break a mortgage, reducing their flexibility and sometimes forcing them to sell prematurely.

Faster lender-initiated enforcement: Power of sale in many provinces

Many Canadian jurisdictions allow power-of-sale where the lender instructs sale of the mortgaged property without full judicial foreclosure. Compared with a judicial foreclosure, power-of-sale is typically faster and less complicated for lenders, which speeds up the time from loan default to sale and reduces the homeowner’s time to repay shortfall. That speed increases the flow of properties into the market which is attractive for opportunistic buyers.

Concentration of renewals and interest-rate cycles = forced selling waves

Because many mortgages share the 5 year term and because interest-rate cycles move up and down, renewals tend to cluster. When rates rise, many simultaneous renewals can produce a wave of payment increases. The Bank of Canada and major banks have highlighted that a large number of mortgages renewing around the same time in 2025–26 will face higher payments — increasing the probability of distressed sales or higher listing volumes, which creates buying opportunities for speculators.


Forced and Rushed Sales

  1. Investor arbitrage on fast sales — Foreclosures and motivated homeowner sales create a supply of listings that investors and speculators can buy quickly — sometimes at discounts — then flip, renovate, or rent. Power of sale reduces time for market corrections and gives prepared buyers an edge.
  2. Market signaling and momentum — Renewals causing sales can be read by speculators as evidence of changing markets.
  3. Credit-supply expansion and insured mortgages — When government-insured lending rules or amortization limits change (i.e. Canada’s Budget 2024 expanded some 30-year amortization allowances), that can increase the effective buying power for some buyers and raise demand, which speculators exploit.
  4. Low friction for investors — In contrast to an underwater homeowner who faces IRD and potentially a shortfall, an investor with cash or a portfolio lender can bid aggressively on distressed properties.

Compared to United States

Mortgage structure: dominant long-term fixed rate

U.S. residential mortgages are mostly 30-year fixed-rate mortgages meaning there is no renewal. That one feature sharply reduces the number of households forced into sale.

Prepayment and refinance culture

U.S. loans are designed to be portable and prepayment penalties are rare, especially for conforming 30-year mortgages — it is easy and usually inexpensive to refinance when rates fall or to sell without heavy penalties. This flexibility allows borrowers to adjust financing without being forced to sell.

Non-recourse / deficiency protections in many states

Several U.S. states restrict deficiency judgments meaning borrowers can “walk away” without personal liability, which, paradoxically, reduces the pressure to sell quickly because there is less legal incentive to force a sale to avoid judgment.

Foreclosure process tends to be slower (varies by state)

In many U.S. states the foreclosure process is longer and more administratively involved, which creates more time to source funds or other solutions and this reduces the flow of distressed properties into the market compared with a jurisdiction where power-of-sale is quick.



Collectively, these features make the Canadian market more problematic and provide structural advantages to well-capitalized buyers but disadvantages to everyone else which is a recipe that can increase speculation and upward price pressure, especially where housing supply is constrained.



Solutions

  1. Longer term contracts or more portable, low-penalty refinancing
  2. Caps or greater transparency on IRD and prepayment costs so homeowners can change lenders without punitive charges. The federal consumer guidance on IRD is a starting point and policy could limit IRD magnitude or require standard amortization-porting rules.
  3. Stronger homeowner mediation processes before lender sales
  4. Targeted limits on investor purchases of distressed stock during enforcement windows
  5. Supply-side measures (build more housing), because speculation profits more when supply is constrained.


In Summary

Canadian mortgage contract design and legislated acceleration tools like power of sale raise the chance that Canadian households will be forced into sales when rates or incomes change. Those concentrated sales windows and the high cost of keeping or refinancing a mortgage create fertile ground for well-capitalized speculators to buy and reprice properties — increasing upward price pressure, especially where supply is tight. The U.S. market’s dominant long-term, fixed-rate mortgages protections reduce the frequency and speed of forced sales, which changes how speculation interacts with housing supply and prices. Institutional, federally regulated mortgages by Canadians for Canadians should have built in protections or they risk acquiring the reputation of a predator.


DGB


Legal disclaimer: The material provided on this web site is for general information purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal advice.


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DEBT CONSOLIDATION

Canadian Stablecoin Development

Hi folks! Well, the Bank of Canada and federal regulators are keeping a tight watch on stablecoin activity. They’re not banning it — but they’re making sure anything pegged to the Canadian dollar meets the same standards as a financial instrument. Canada needs stability, transparency, and full compliance before any private stablecoin becomes mainstream. The way it will likely work is, to buy Canadian Stablecoins, first, you must buy Canadian Treasury bonds so the digital currency is backed by the Canadian Dollar. Other countries that are also deeply invested in developing a national framework for Stablecoins include USA, United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, United Arab Emirates and others.

Stablecoins Treated as Derivatives

Here’s where it gets very interesting. The Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA) are leaning toward classifying fiat-backed stablecoins as derivatives — basically financial contracts whose value depends on something else (in this case, the Canadian dollar). That means stablecoins could fall under the same umbrella as certain investment products. It sounds restrictive, but it’s not a bad thing. Treating stablecoins as derivatives gives regulators tools to enforce proper disclosure, custody, and redemption rules — protecting consumers and institutions from shady practices or rug-pulls.

The Upside and the Risk

When investors and consumers know a stablecoin is regulated like any other financial product, trust goes up. Banks and payment networks will be more open to participating. The downside? Slower innovation. Compliance costs and licensing hurdles could freeze out smaller fintech players who can’t afford the legal framework.

In Closing

Canada isn’t racing to launch a national stablecoin — it’s building the legal runway first. The takeaway is that when Canadian-backed stablecoins do arrive, they’ll be highly regulated, likely derivative-based, and designed to hold value under real-world law — not just speculative blockchain hype. Derivatives, like any investment, is not risk free.

Related Material:

DGB


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DEBT CONSOLIDATION

Debt Relief Companies in Canada – Don’t Get Played

Hey folks! I’ve been wanting to write about this for awhile as I see Canadians suffering every day over this issue and it has been affecting vulnerable Canadian consumers for far too long. Here’s why these practices are problematic and how they can be addressed:

Why It’s Problematic

Legal violations: Only Licensed Insolvency Trustees (LITs) are legally authorized under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act to administer consumer proposals. Companies charging fees to “prepare” consumers are operating outside their legal authority, charging for services they cannot legally complete and creating an unnecessary intermediary with extra fees attached in a process that is required to be direct

Financial harm to vulnerable consumers:

  • These companies target people already in financial distress
  • They charge upfront fees (often $500-$3,000+) for “consulting” or “preparation” which is not charged by LIT’s for the same process
  • Consumers must then still pay the LIT to actually file the proposal
  • This means double costs when people can access LITs directly with free initial consultations

Misleading practices:

  • Many use names/marketing that sound official or government-affiliated
  • They may not clearly disclose they aren’t LITs
  • Consumers often don’t understand they’re paying for unnecessary services
  • Some provide poor advice or cookie-cutter solutions
  • Time spent with these companies delays consumers from getting actual help, allowing interest and penalties to accumulate.

How to Resolve This Epidemic

For Policymakers:

  1. Stronger enforcement: Provincial consumer protection agencies and the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy need more resources to investigate and prosecute
  2. Clearer regulations: Explicit prohibitions on charging fees for consumer proposal “preparation” or “consulting”
  3. Mandatory disclosures: Require any debt relief company to clearly state in advertising:
    • They are not Licensed Insolvency Trustees
    • Consumers can contact LITs directly at no cost
    • A list of fees they charge
  4. Advertising restrictions: Limit misleading terminology in company names and marketing
  5. Public awareness campaigns: Government-funded education about where to get legitimate help

For Consumers:

  1. Go directly to an LIT: Initial consultations are free. Find trustees at the OSB’s website or through provincial insolvency associations
  2. Warning signs of problematic companies:
    • Charging upfront fees before filing anything
    • High-pressure sales tactics
    • Guarantees about debt elimination
    • Not clearly stating they’re not an LIT
  3. Verify credentials: Ask “Are you a Licensed Insolvency Trustee?” If not, walk away
  4. Report violations: File complaints with:
    • Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy (federal)
    • Provincial consumer protection offices
    • Better Business Bureau
    • Competition Bureau for misleading advertising

For Industry Groups:

The Canadian Association of Insolvency and Restructuring Professionals (CAIRP) and provincial law societies should actively:

  • Public education campaigns
  • Work with government on enforcement
  • Clear the air about who can do what

In Summary

Licensed Insolvency Trustees provide free initial consultations. There is never a need to pay a third party to “prepare” you to see an LIT. Anyone in debt should contact an LIT directly – they’re the only ones who can actually file consumer proposals, and they’re required to explain all options, including alternatives to insolvency.

Debt Management Programs essentially a predatory industry preying on people’s lack of knowledge during their most financially vulnerable moments. Stronger enforcement and better public education are essential to protect consumers. We all need to be our own best advocate.

DGB


Legal disclaimer: The material provided on this web site is for general information purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal advice.


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DEBT CONSOLIDATION

Invisible Impacts on a Credit Report

Hi folks! Today I’ll demonstrate the invisible impacts of credit report de-prioritization and gaps.

Most Canadians are aware of obvious credit factors like late payments, credit utilization, and collections appearing on their Equifax or TransUnion reports, however, it’s important to understand that credit files can be de-prioritized by scoring algorithms. Consumers with very limited traditional credit activity — such as credit cards, loans, or lines of credit — are often assigned lower scores even if they are low-risk, creating a subtle but impactful disadvantage.


The Problem with Alternative Data

A major blind spot is the fact that paying rent, utilities, telecom bills, subscriptions, or buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) installments, often do not influence traditional credit scores. Many lenders do not reliably report BNPL payments, meaning consumers who consistently pay off these obligations remain “invisible” to scoring models. As a result, Canadians may perceive themselves as in good standing while still being disadvantaged when accessing traditional credit such as a mortgage.


Technical Complexities Most Consumers Miss

The weighting of credit bureau algorithms adds another layer. Some scoring models limit the influence of older collections or delinquencies, yet thin files continue to be heavily penalized. Consumers often assume that “no negative marks” automatically equates to a high score, which is often false. Additionally, the timing of data updates — typically every 30–45 days — can temporarily make a resolved debt appear delinquent in automated lending systems, triggering higher rates or declines even when accounts are current. Cross-border data gaps further exacerbate the problem in that Canadians with foreign credit experience may find their history absent in domestic reporting, and lenders treat them as “new to Canada,” penalizing high-quality borrowers.


Big Implications

These gaps are not just consumer-level issues; they have far reaching systemic consequences. Under-reported positive behavior and thin files distort credit risk models, inflating perceived risk and limiting lending. As regulators explore incorporating alternative data into scoring, transitional volatility could impact both consumers and smaller lenders, yet the public remains largely unaware. Knowledgeable borrowers could strategically use rent, telecom, and BNPL payments to build visible positive history, but mainstream Canadians typically lack this insight.


Key Insight

The critical issue Canadians are blind to is that traditional credit reporting penalizes thin files and excludes verifiable positive behaviors, creating invisible risk profiles that affect access to credit more than minor past delinquencies. Most consumers incorrectly assume that good behavior automatically translates into high credit scores, when in fact, unreported positive actions can have a greater impact on their financial opportunities.

Unintended Consequences

A weaker credit report affects a lot more than just access to low interest credit such as mortgages. The main reasons a credit report is pulled in Canada are 1) at the final stages of a job interview before a job offer is made, 2) when a landlord is reviewing a seemingly acceptable residential rent application, and 3) when the big 3 Canadian telecom (cell phone) providers are considering offering services.


DGB


Legal disclaimer: The material provided on this web site is for general information purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal or accounting advice.


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DEBT CONSOLIDATION

Underwriting Policy

Hi folks! Underwriting unsecured loans to Canadians needing debt consolidation is not as simple as you may think. After costs you should not expect to exceed a profit over 18% of your loan portfolio. Staff and management salaries should be 15-20% of the total portfolio.

General Guidelines
Loan Range: $2,000 – $30,000Employed Borrowers OnlyNo Origination FeesPerformance-Based Rate AdjustmentMinor Collections Acceptable

1. Purpose and Scope

This policy defines the recommended standards, procedures, and risk management framework for unsecured debt consolidation loans to employed Canadians.

Objectives:

  • Provide consistent, fair, and compliant loan approval criteria.
  • Protect portfolio quality and mitigate default risk.
  • Encourage timely repayments through a performance-based interest rate adjustment.

2. Loan Overview

  • Loan Type: Unsecured personal loan for debt consolidation.
  • Loan Amounts: CAD $2,000 – $30,000.
  • Term: 12 to 60 months (fixed).
  • Interest Rate: Risk-based fixed APR with performance-based adjustments (see Section 7).
  • Fees: No origination or organization fees; standard late payment and NSF fees may apply.
  • Repayment: Pre-authorized debit (PAD) from a Canadian chequing account.

3. Borrower Eligibility

  1. Residency: Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
  2. Age: 19+
  3. Income: Minimum gross annual employment income of $28,000.
  4. Banking: Active Canadian chequing account with direct deposit.
  5. Debt Purpose: Loan must consolidate all overdue debts.
  6. Minimum 6 months at current employer or 12 months in same industry.
  7. Income must be from employment only (no self-employed, no pensions, no government benefits as primary income).

4. Requirements

  • Government-issued photo ID (front and back).
  • Proof of employment/income:
    • 3 months bank statements showing payroll, no NSF or O/D use 30 days AND
    • Last two pay stubs OR employment verification letter
  • Proof of address (utility bill, lease, driver’s license)
  • Statement(s) or letter(s) for debt(s) being consolidated
  • Signed credit bureau consent
  • Third party consent(s) for all debts to be paid out

5. Credit Assessment

5.1 Credit Bureau Review

  • Sources: Equifax and/or TransUnion.
  • Minimum Credit Score: 620.
  • Derogatory History:
    • Bankruptcies or consumer proposals within past 24 months: not allowed.
    • Collections : R5/I5 acceptable
    • Serious delinquency (R7/I7 or higher): decline

5.2 Debt-to-Income Ratios

  • Net DTI (post-loan): ≤ 65%

6. Loan Sizing & Risk Tiers

TierCredit ScoreAPR RangeMax TermMax Loan
Prime620+24.99%60 mo$30,000
Near-Prime600-61924.99%36 mo$20,000
Subprime550-61833.99%24 mo$6,000

I believe in this underwriting policy will prosper ONLY if combined with very strong fraud prevention and recovery personnel with a thorough understanding of risk and how it affects the portfolio on a rolling basis as well as how to condense when needed depending on the funds performance results at a given time.

DGB


Legal disclaimer: The material provided on this web site is for general information purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal or accounting advice.


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DEBT CONSOLIDATION




A Consumer Guide to Multilateral Instrument 93-101 (Derivatives) in Canada

What Is MI 93-101?

Hi folks! Let’s talk about Canadian derivatives. Yes, the Canadian version of the U.S. product(s) that played a large role in causing the 2008 financial crisis.

Multilateral Instrument 93-101 is a Canadian rule that took effect in September 2024. It sets out standards for how companies that sell or advise on over-the-counter derivatives must behave. A derivative is a financial contract whose value comes from something else — for example, the price of wheat, the Canadian dollar, or a stock index. Farmers might use them to protect against price swings, while some investors use them to try to make a profit from market changes.

The new rule is meant to make this market safer, more transparent, and more honest. It requires firms to disclose key information, manage conflicts of interest, and treat clients fairly. Not everyone will notice the change right away, because firms have up to five years to fully comply, but the protections are now part of Canadian law.

How It Protects You

Under MI 93-101, a derivatives dealer or adviser has to give you clear written information before you enter into a deal. This includes explaining what the contract is, how it works, what it costs, and what risks you might face. They also have to explain how your money or collateral will be held and what could happen to it.

If you are considered a less experienced client, the firm must also make sure the product is actually suitable for you, based on your goals and your tolerance for risk. Even if you are treated as a more sophisticated client or “eligible derivatives party” — the dealer must still deal with you fairly, honestly, and in good faith.

Where the Rule Stops Short

It’s important to understand that MI 93-101 does not make derivatives risk-free. You can still lose money, sometimes more than you put in, if markets move against you. You might also face sudden requests for more collateral (called “margin calls”). And while firms are now held to higher standards, some of the protections don’t apply if you’re classified as a sophisticated client and agree in writing to waive them. The rule also doesn’t guarantee that the firm you’re dealing with won’t get into financial trouble itself.

How You Can Protect Yourself

To use derivatives safely under this new regime, always start by asking how the firm is treating you: are you considered an “eligible derivatives party” or not? If you are, ask what protections you may be giving up. Read contracts carefully, especially sections about collateral and margin, and ask the firm to explain in plain language what the worst-case scenario could be.

Be clear about fees and charges — if you don’t understand how the firm gets paid, press for an answer until you do. Keep copies of all documents, emails, and confirmations and don’t be afraid to get independent financial or legal advice if the product seems complicated. For example, if you are a small business hedging the price of fuel, consider asking your accountant or lawyer to review the contract before you sign.

Warning Signs to Watch For

There are some red flags that suggest you should walk away or at least get more information. If the firm is

vague about risks,

pressures you to sign quickly,

asks you to waive protections without a clear explanation,

unclear fees,

confusing statements, or

unexplained changes in the value of your contract should also make you cautious.

If you suddenly get large or repeated margin calls that you weren’t expecting, it may mean the contract is riskier than you realized.

Also be wary if you can’t easily exit the deal or if the company has had regulatory problems in the past. In the world of derivatives, being careful early is far better than being surprised later.

What to Expect in the Future

Because firms have up to five years to fully comply (2029), you may notice more changes in how they communicate with you over time. Regulators will also continue to release guidance and updates to clarify the rules. Since Canada’s approach is designed to line up with international standards, global financial changes may also affect how the rules are applied here.

For now, the best way to protect yourself is to stay informed, ask questions, and recognize early signs of trouble. MI 93-101 makes the playing field safer, but ultimately it is your vigilance — knowing your rights, reading carefully, and seeking advice when needed — that will keep you out of harm’s way.

DGB


Legal disclaimer: The material provided on this web site is for general information purposes only. It is not intended to provide advice.


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DEBT CONSOLIDATION

Canada’s Private Lenders are Expanding Faster than Banks

Hi folks! Here’s an interesting topic

Canada’s Private Lenders are Expanding Faster than Banks

With alternative and digital lending markets growing at double-digit rates. We also benefits from a relatively stable regulatory environment and a concentrated banking system, which creates openings for niche entrants to serve borrowers that the banks may overlook. These factors give Canada a solid foundation for growth in unsecured and private lending.

However, Canada’s market is far smaller than the United States, which limits investor appetite. The dominance of the Big Six banks keeps competitive pressure high, making it harder for new entrants to capture significant market share. In addition, Canada’s more cautious regulatory pace and lower risk appetite tend to suppress returns compared with the U.S. The result is that while Canada is set to grow, the U.S. will continue to dominate in both scale and innovation. Canada’s most realistic position over the near term is not as a market leader, but as a strong regional contender with opportunities for niche leadership.


Likelihood of Canada Dominating

For Canada to narrow the gap, growth must come from a deliberate mix of technology and skilled professionals. On the technology side, AI-driven underwriting, alternative data analysis, and open banking tools could sharpen risk assessment and broaden access to credit. Securitization platforms, and potentially blockchain registries, would create liquidity for loan portfolios and attract institutional capital. Consumer-facing digital platforms could bring together unsecured products such as Small and Medium Enterprise financing, and personal loans.

Recruiting professionals with U.S. or European private credit experience would help Canadian firms adopt advanced structuring, monitoring, and best practices. At the same time, building compliance and regtech expertise would reassure regulators and investors that innovation will not come at the cost of stability. Blending traditional credit analysis with data science would give firms the ability to manage portfolios with both prudence and precision.

Strategic focus should be placed on niches where Canada can differentiate. SME lending remains underserved by banks, offering room for flexible, unsecured products. ESG-linked lending represents another promising area, as Canada could brand itself a leader in sustainable private credit. Lastly, collaboration will be essential: bank–fintech partnerships can spread risk efficiently.


36 Month Roadmap

  • Next 6–12 months:
    • Build AI-driven underwriting pilots.
    • Establish compliance/regtech teams.
    • Recruit cross-border credit professionals.
  • 12–24 months:
    • Launch SME- and ESG-focused unsecured loan products.
    • Roll out securitization or tokenization pilots for pooled loans.
    • Formalize partnerships with banks and pensions.
  • 24–36 months:
    • Scale digital lending platforms nationally.
    • Establish secondary trading/liquidity platforms for private loan portfolios.
    • Position Canada as a recognized hub for transparent, tech-enabled, ESG-oriented private credit.

The bottom line is Canada will not surpass the U.S. in scale, but by executing on tech innovation, specialized talent, and niche positioning, it can scale and attract global capital to deliver high caliber unsecured and private lending.

DGB


Legal disclaimer: The material provided on this web site is for general information purposes only. It is not intended to provide advice.


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DEBT CONSOLIDATION

Why Canada’s GDP Growth is Modest Compared to Other Countries — And What That Really Means

Hi folks! When I look at Canada’s economy, it’s obvious that despite being wealthy, resource-rich, and mostly politically stable, the country’s GDP growth is modest compared to many developing nations. In this post, we’ll explore why that is, compare Canada to other countries like the U.S. and Australia, and break down the structural reasons behind its growth patterns.


1. How Canada’s Growth Compares to Low-GDP, Fast-Growing Countries

Over the past 24 months, several low-income countries have experienced remarkable growth. For example:

  • Rwanda: Real GDP growth of ~8–9% recently, with improvements in industrial policy and poverty reduction.
  • Ethiopia: Projected growth ~8% in 2025, with infrastructure and urbanization driving gains.
  • Guyana: Booming growth (~43% in 2024!) thanks to oil exports, though challenges remain in managing newfound wealth.

Contrast this with Canada, whose growth hovers around 1.5–2% annually.

Why the difference?
Developing countries are in “catch-up mode.” They move workers from subsistence agriculture to industry and services, adopt existing technologies, and rapidly urbanize. Canada, by contrast, is already near the technological frontier. Most improvements are incremental — shaving seconds off production lines, improving service efficiency — so growth is naturally slower.


2. Canada’s “Natural Plateau” Explanation

One way to explain Canada’s modest growth is to view it as the natural consequence of being a mature, high-income country:

  • High income: With a per capita GDP of ~$55,000 USD, most basic infrastructure, healthcare, and education needs are already met.
  • Strong institutions: Stable democracy, low corruption, safe banking systems, and predictable legal frameworks foster stability but not explosive growth.
  • Diversified economy: Canada’s mix of resources, manufacturing, and services spreads risk but prevents single-sector booms.
  • Demographics: An aging population and slow workforce growth naturally limit GDP expansion.
  • Incremental productivity: With most low-hanging gains already captured, growth comes in small, steady increments rather than leaps.

In this view, modest growth isn’t a problem — it’s a reflection of Canada’s resilience and stability.


3. The Alternate Perspective: Canada is Underperforming

Another viewpoint argues that Canada’s modest growth is not inevitable, but the result of structural weaknesses and policy choices:

  • Productivity lag: Canadian workers are less productive than U.S. counterparts in key sectors.
  • Capital misallocation: Excessive investment in housing instead of productive industries slows innovation.
  • Concentrated markets: Telecom, banking, and grocery sectors are less competitive, reducing dynamism.
  • Immigration underutilization: Skilled immigrants are often underemployed due to credential recognition and skills mismatch.
  • Regulatory friction: Multi-level governance can slow infrastructure and industrial projects.

Bottom line: With targeted reforms in productivity, capital allocation, and immigration integration, Canada could grow faster while maintaining its institutional strengths.


4. Comparing Canada to the U.S.

The U.S. grows faster than Canada despite being at a similar level of development:

  • Productivity advantage: American firms adopt technology faster and scale globally.
  • Market scale: A large domestic market supports growth and startup scaling.
  • Capital allocation: U.S. capital flows more into productive sectors rather than housing.
  • Competition and dynamism: U.S. markets are more flexible, allowing resources to move quickly to high-growth sectors.
  • Global currency and influence: The U.S. dollar’s reserve currency status attracts global capital, while U.S. multinationals dominate international markets.

Canada’s slower growth is partly natural, but structural and policy factors amplify the gap.


5. Comparing Canada to Australia

Canada and Australia share many similarities — high-income, resource-rich, democratic — yet Australia often outpaces Canada in GDP growth:

FactorCanadaAustraliaWhy it Matters
Population~40M~27MCanada has a slightly larger labor pool, but Australia integrates immigrants more effectively.
GDP Growth~1.5–2%~2–2.5%Australia’s growth slightly higher due to resource demand and immigration integration.
Capital AllocationHeavy into housingMore balanced (mining, infrastructure)Canada’s over-reliance on real estate constrains productive investment.
Trade OrientationMostly U.S.Strong ties to AsiaExposure to fast-growing Asian markets boosts Australia’s GDP.
ProductivityLags OECDHigher in mining and servicesTechnology adoption and sector efficiency matter.

This highlights areas where bold choices could unlock new momentum such as shifting capital away from real estate and improving how immigration applicants are tied to productive careers. The choice now is whether to settle for steady but unspectacular growth in our current status-quo — or to embrace reforms that ensure prosperity keeps pace with the ambitions of its people.

DGB


Legal disclaimer: The material provided on this web site is for general information purposes only. It is not intended to provide advice.


Gig Worker or Self Employed Needs This

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DEBT CONSOLIDATION LOAN APPLICATION

Mortgage Versus Home Equity Line of Credit

Notice: No mortgage products, services or advice are being sold on this website

Hi folks! Today, let’s discuss the differences as well as the pros and cons of having a Mortgage versus having a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) in Canada.

The federal government’s website states this about the definition of a mortgage:

The loan you get from a lender to help pay for your home is a mortgage. A mortgage is a legal contract between you and your lender. It specifies the conditions of your loan and secures it on a property, like a house or a condo. With a secured loan, the lender has a legal right to take your property


THE DIFFERENCES

The main difference is that a HELOC has revolving credit terms meaning as you pay down the balance, the remaining limit becomes available to you. A few financial institutions have had these products attached to the customers daily bank account so that any money sitting in the bank account until grocery day, for example, would reduce the mortgage balance temporarily thus reducing the amount of interest accumulating on a daily basis. This setup ALWAYS reduces the total mortgage interest paid while also giving access to capital but requires discipline. This could be a loaded weapon in the hands of, say, a gambling addict. A HELOC can be given, upon approved credit, for up to maximum 65% the value of the residence or up to 80% if combined with a conventional mortgage. In certain cases, HELOC interest may be tax deductible.

THINGS TO WATCH FOR

If your property may decrease in value at all, be aware of the ratios and pay down your HELOC accordingly and frequently review your terms and conditions.

A “Callable” or “Demand” loan is a term that may be in your HELOC meaning your lender can demand payment on full of your loan at any time even without default of any type. You’ll want to watch for this before you ever agree to borrow. Ask for an amendment on the agreement before you sign or request a different product that does not include this condition.

A HELOC has a slightly higher interest rate compared to a conventional bank or credit union mortgage.

The re-advanceable nature of a revolving line of credit requires self discipline.

THE BENEFITS

There are no pre-payment penalties when you pay off or pay extra to your HELOC.

On a HELOC there are no renewals which means no rate or term renegotiating (unless you default).

A HELOC can be used as low interest consolidation tool or growth capital if used cautiously.

IN SUMMARY

In summary, a HELOC is a valuable tool for those with 35% or more equity in their property wanting flexibility. Ask your bank, credit union or a licensed mortgage professional if this is right for you.

DGB


Legal disclaimer: The material provided on this web site is for general information purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal advice.


Gig Worker or Self Employed Needs This

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DEBT CONSOLIDATION LOAN APPLICATION

How Do Credit Inquiries Really Affect My Credit – The Facts

Happy New Year everyone!

In the spirit of manifesting our dreams and generating positive outcomes for 2025 and beyond, let’s clear up some heavy confusion about credit inquiries and weather they hurt your credit or not.

The Facts

  • Having one credit inquiry has almost no affect on your credit score or your credit worthiness.
  • Requesting your own credit reports DIRECTLY from Equifax and/or TransUnion has zero affect on your credit score or your credit worthiness even if you check it biweekly
  • Each inquiry from a credit card application counts as a separate inquiry and therefore, multiple credit card applications DOES have a fair bit more of an affect on your credit score and credit worthiness for up to 36 months
  • Here’s the big one. If you’re shopping for a vehicle loan, a debt consolidation loan, a mortgage, personal line of credit, you may want to shop around to get the best deal. Let me say this loudly so everyone can hear MULTIPLE credit inquiries within 14 days will have the exact same affect on your credit score and your credit worthiness as ONE inquiry. In case anyone disputes this, here is an exact quote from equifax.ca:

multiple inquires for the same purpose within a certain period of time are generally counted as one inquiry. The timeframes may vary, but range from 14 days to 45 days, depending on the credit scoring model being used. All inquiries will show on your credit reports, but generally only one within the specified period of time will impact your credit scores. This exception does not apply to credit cards.


I hope this has finally cleared up the entire subject of credit inquiries.

SOME GREAT LINKS TO CHECK OUT

Get your free Equifax report

Get your free TransUnion report

What happens when I settle overdue debt?

Ten things that won`t hurt your credit

Identity Theft Education

Request your free credit reports by phone 24/7/365

Equifax 1-800 465 7166
TransUnion 1-800 663 9980
There are services that will get your credit details for you, some for free, so they can offer you other products for sale. Smart consumers get their credit reports directly from Equifax and Transunion which is the only true source for a Canadian consumer credit report. Everyone else is a third party seller #facts #NOT_a_paid_endorsement

Have a great 2025 everyone!

DGB


Legal disclaimer: The material provided on this web site is for general information purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal advice.


Gig Worker or Self Employed Needs This

GET YOUR GST/HST NUMBER NOW

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Step One – Financial Management for Individuals

Hi folks! Well, we’re in the last 2 months of 2024, can you believe it? I believe a year-end personal review is the best thing you can do Set yourself up early before the holidays.

To start, here are a few simple things you can do right now:

1. Write down every monthly and annual expense you have

2. For items that fluctuate like groceries. Look at the last 90 days of activity in your banking app or online banking and add up your monthly purchases, get an idea of your high, low and average weeks. Please never assume you know what you’re spending if you haven’t looked

3. If you have annual expenses like auto insurance, divide the total by 12 and write it on your monthly expense list

4. If you have pet(s) that sometimes require medical treatment, calculate the average in the last several years and get a monthly average to add to your monthly expense list

5. In another column of your written list or spreadsheet, write your monthly GROS income before tax are deducted as well as any Child Tax Credit or other benefits that you receive.

Any tax, union dues and RRSP contributions should be added to your monthly expense list.

One thing I can tell you, delving into your income and expense list deeply as described here is a giant first step into solving or preventing ANY financial difficulty no matter the severity. When the pieces of a puzzle are presented in an organized way, a picture begins to form which will energize you and make you ask the right QUESTIONS which is the only way to ever discover the right ANSWERS in any situation.

Once this giant first step is complete, here are a few next steps that will help you quite a bit:

Financial Literacy Basics – Part 1
Financial Literacy Basics – Part 2
Financial Literacy Basics – Part 3
Financial Literacy Basics – Part 4
Updating Your Credit
How Much Should I Pay for Rent and Expenses
Credit Rehabilitation
Free Self Employed Bookkeeping Ledger
RECENT POSTS

CHECK RECENT POSTS AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS PAGE FOR MANY MORE SPECIAL POSTS ON THE TOPIC OF PERSONAL CREDIT MANAGEMENT AND EVERYTHING RELATED

It Should Be Noted

While discovering your own financial best practices, you may discover some non-financial things that will prevent you from moving to your next chapter such as developing bad spending habits or even treatable illnesses such as gambling or substance dependency.

This is part of the journey of personal improvement. Don’t hesitate to address these things along the way in an organized way so that you can continue the process where you need to for success.

Cheers,

DGB


Helpful Links:

Ten things that won`t hurt your credit

DEBT CONSOLIDATION LOANS

Identity Theft Education

What happens when I settle overdue debt?

GET YOUR GST/HST NUMBER NOW

Reasons You Shouldn’t Get a Payday Loan

WITHOUT PREJUDICE

Hi folks! Let’s talk about THE most expensive way to borrow in Canada: PAYDAY LOANS

Payday loans are provincially legislated (except in NFLD) and there is a harmonized 15% per biweekly period making the annual interest rate 390% (15 x 26). Additional costs such as NSF fees and other add-ons make the annual cost of borrowing often over 400%.

If you are prone to this type of borrowing, you can change this pattern and instead implement the following policies:

1. Keep a small emergency fund

2. Establishing a low interest line of credit at a bank or credit union

3. Establishing a spending budget and reviewing it often

4. Seek financial literacy material to immunize yourself from making poor financial choices

Bad habits are hard to break but the reward is feeling financially confident. I hope this guidance has helped you. If your financial hardship is no longer manageable you can book a consultation with me.

Cheers,

DGB

Legal disclaimer: The material provided on this web site is for general information purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal advice.


Helpful Links:

Ten things that won`t hurt your credit

DEBT CONSOLIDATION LOANS

Identity Theft Education

What happens when I settle overdue debt?

Automated Debits – The Devil You Don’t Know

For those of you that arrived here from my LinkedIn, this material is for those in or near financial hardship as well as anyone wanting to improve their financial best practices policies.

Hi Folks! Let’s talk about the first step towards financial ruin (I’m serious) and how to avoid it. The evil AUTOMATED BANK DEBITS

I say, unless you like stress & added expense, DO NOT sign or provide anyone with automated debit forms to withdraw money from your bank account under any circumstances. If you have some already, you can give your bank a debit-cancellation form for each one. Here’s why:

1. Your credit card holder agreements require you to review your credit card charges monthly to look for errors which must be reported to the financial institution within a deadline or YOU ARE LIABLE even for things that are not your fault if you fail to do this in a timely manner

2. You should be paying your expenses manually via online banking to prevent non-sufficient funds fees and reputational damage that occurs when items bounce when automated debits hit before you have sufficient funds

3. You should be AWARE of the state of your banking and this can only happen when you LOOK AT YOUR ONLINE BANKING REGULARLY in conjunction with your budget in progress

4. Phone, utility and other fluctuating monthly expenses may contain invoicing errors. You need to review these invoices monthly, note the due date and pay manually via your banking WHEN FUNDS ARE AVAILABLE

None of the above are possible when you have automated debits coming out of your bank account. If you think you’re making sure things get paid on time, you’re wrong. You’re costing yourself money ALL the time with NSF’s and failure to review your accounts manually. If you find it hard to change, it’s addiction to worst-practices and it needs to be corrected immediately.

In summary, automated debits lead to NSF fees and reputational damage which cost you money eliminating access to low priced credit and therefore reducing your ability to ever save, invest or prosper.

Special Circumstances

Often, mortgages and vehicle insurance MUST be paid via automated debit. In this case, and only if it is unavoidable, best practices require the use of a separate high-interest-savings account with a policy of leaving required funds in advance plus a buffer amount to be decided.

I hope this helps you!

DGB

Legal disclaimer: The material provided on this web site is for general information purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal advice.

Book a consult with me


Helpful Links:

Ten things that won`t hurt your credit

DEBT CONSOLIDATION LOANS

Identity Theft Education

What happens when I settle overdue debt?

Debt Management 101

Hi Folks! Well, it’s now fall but that DOESN’T mean your financial literacy or well-being has to fall by the wayside.

Let’s face it, in life, there are flat tires, days off work for a flu, marital splits, work lay-offs, work injuries. Some of these types of set-backs WILL occur for everyone. Does this mean you need to be financially injured every time one of these set-backs occurs in life? HELL NO IT DOES NOT!

IMPORTANT: If your reality includes the fact that you owe money, at least make it inexpensive money. This simply means, making sure it’s low interest. How?

No payday loans under any circumstances, no department store credit cards and no high interest loans over about 11%. Not getting into these things in the first place is the best choice. If you already have these types of over-priced credit products, make sure they’re all in good standing and then get yourself to a bank or credit union and replace your high interest credit products with a low interest bank loan. If you’re up to date on all your existing credit and your total debt is a reasonable amount, getting your bank to OFFER YOU a low interest loan is easy, just introduce yourself to them.

Making sure your credit products are inexpensive is paramount to your being able to save and eventually invest. Remember, every success starts with sticking to best practices. Surround yourself with the possibility of good and the impossibility of bad.

The decisions you make today create that environment so review ALL your financial affairs and look for small ways to keep leveling up.

If you have existing high interest credit products and you can’t get them paid up to date immediately, this NEEDS to be your main priority so click HERE for step-by-step mentoring.

I hope this helps you!

DGB


Helpful Links:

Ten things that won`t hurt your credit

DEBT CONSOLIDATION LOANS

Identity Theft Education

What happens when I settle overdue debt?

The Benefits of GST/HST Registration (for your small biz)

Hi Folks! This is for my fellow Canadian small business operators out there including gig economy workers and side gig operators. Even if you generate very little income, you may be SURPRISED to learn how this information can put cash in your pocket right now.

As many of you know, you are required by law to register to get a GST/HST number from the Canadian government as soon as your business, sole proprietorship, hobby, charity, etc generates $30,000 unless you provide a tax exempt service such as medical services.

Some people don’t want their small business to seem small so they get their GST/HST number earlier than required and what do those people notice? Ah, finally a reward. Money back from the government!

Yes, it’s true. When you have a GST/HST number you must charge the tax applicable to your customers province or territory. The total you charge is declared, often monthly or quarterly on a GST/HST return along with…wait for it…EVERY PENNY YOU PAID IN GST/HST FOR EXPENSES NEEDED TO OPERATE YOUR BUSINESS. These are known as Input Tax Credits, or ITC’s for short.

You subtract what you paid in GST/HST from what you collected and you remit the rest to CRA.

This means your business does not pay GST/HST for it’s allowable expenses anymore. That’s the message here. If you’re a sole proprietor with multiple side gigs you can use one GST/HST number for everything you do.

Hope this helps you!

DGB


Helpful Links:

Ten things that won`t hurt your credit

DEBT CONSOLIDATION LOANS

Identity Theft Education

What happens when I settle overdue debt?

Financial Literacy Basics Video Series – Part 1

Hi folks! This year I thought I’d exercise my duty to educate during November, FINANCIAL LITERACY MONTH, by sharing a four part video series about the basics of financial literacy. This information is very brief and is intended as a starting point for conversation.

Jump to part 2

Jump to Part 3

Jump to Part 4

Cheers,

DGB

Book a consult with me

Helpful Links:

Ten things that won`t hurt your credit

DEBT CONSOLIDATION LOANS

Identity Theft Education

What happens when I settle overdue debt?

Complaint with a federal Canadian bank not getting resolved?

HAPPY FINANCIAL LITERACY MONTH 2023

Hi Folks! Can you believe it’s November already? HAPPY FINANCIAL LITERACY MONTH 2023!!!

So, what should you be thinking about and working on to be adequately “financially literate”? Here is a short list of things to keep on your radar:

1. Write down your budget – yes, actually write it down in a special notebook or create a spreadsheet – include monthly net income, monthly recurring expenses – look at your bank statements if you don’t know – spend a few months never paying with cash & read your bank statements, make a section for annual items and break them down monthly in your budget

2. Savings/Investment – open separate accounts for high interest savings, RRSP/TFSA/FHSA, stocks, etc. Offsetting your income tax and saving for retirement are very important

3. Pay off debt – especially high interest debt. This should actually be first on the list for anyone who has credit card debt, a vehicle loan, an unsecured loan, a small business loan or a second/third mortgage – really anything except a first position low interest mortgage. Sometimes it can be strategic to hold a low interest mortgage if you’re getting a big return on the money you borrowed. I like mortgage LOC’s best for this as they don’t have maturity dates and therefore are not subject to rate increases BUT you definitely should still have an exit strategy in place

4. Keep miscellaneous spending under control – for some people this is huge and it’s a must – see #1 above re: using Interac for purchases to help keep track on bank statements

5. Consolidate your overdue debt – your credit report often is used as an addendum to your application for employment, apartment leasing, mobile phone service and to obtain many types of credit. Check the links below for guidance in this category

Good Luck,

DGB

Book a consult with me

Helpful Links:

Ten things that won`t hurt your credit

DEBT CONSOLIDATION LOANS

Identity Theft Education

What happens when I settle overdue debt?

Complaint with a federal Canadian bank not getting resolved?

RRSP -vs- Small Business (as a retirement strategy)

Hi Folks! Well summer is here and, as we enjoy the beaches and barbeques, we can also stay on top of our financial plans for retirement.

I decided to throw together a comparison, half of which may go against conventional wisdom and I’ve run the numbers so I can give you a comparison of two different strategies for retirement planning. Your choice may depend on your confidence in your abilities.

RRSP CONTRIBUTIONS VERSUS SMALL BUSINESS AS A RETIREMENT PLAN

Example I: Our person, an employee, contributes to an RRSP faithfully every month from age 20 to age 65 in gradually increasing amounts which average $314/month for a full 45 years which grows at an average of 5.50% per annum compounded annually. This would roughly equal $2200/month in retirement income

Example II: Our person, a sole proprietor, runs 1 small business and two side-money generating side projects. He makes some short term investments when available which provide incredible ROI’s which help him position himself and his business, but, aside from about $75,000 in cash, he/she doesn’t have a standard retirement plan. When this person is ready to retire, they’ll have their adult child or grand child take over the business, maintaining 15% ownership to be available as a consultant which will translate into about $4000/month in the form of loan repayment until the new owner had paid off the other 85% of the cost of buying the business and all it’s assets which will take about 20 years to complete

Your choice may depend on your personal skills or, if still undecided, you may choose to grow both options simultaneously to varying degrees as a backup plan.

Cheers,

DGB

Legal disclaimer: The material provided on this web site is for general information purposes only. It is not intended to provide advice.

Book a consult with me


Helpful Links:

Ten things that won`t hurt your credit

DEBT CONSOLIDATION LOANS

Identity Theft Education

What happens when I settle overdue debt?

UPDATING YOUR PERSONAL CREDIT REPORT (free and easy)

Hi folks,

It’s getting closer to summer and as the weather warms up, so do our curiosities about our personal and financial well being.

I received a call today about a topic I’ve touched on many times but never as directly:

UPDATING YOUR PERSONAL CREDIT REPORT

In Canada, as an adult consumer, you have a personal credit report. Even if it has little to no history, the report exists.

You have a right to review the personal and financial information being reported about you AND you have the right to provide proof of any inaccuracies and to have those proven inaccuracies corrected within 30 days.

Normally, the first step is to check your Equifax and TransUnion credit reports followed by reporting and proving if any inaccuracies are discovered.

As long as your address is up to date, you can order your free credit report any time 24/7/365 without any mailing or faxing or human interaction using the automated services at the following phone numbers:

Equifax1-800-465-7166
TransUnion1-800-663-9980

If your address is NOT up to date with Equifax or TransUnion, you’ll be unsuccessful using the above telephone services until you send in THIS FORM. When the address update is done, they’ll immediately mail you a free copy of your credit report.

The types of update that are commonly required are:

  1. Update that a collection has now been paid
  2. Update address or employment
  3. Merge a duplicate report
  4. Un-merge a report if inaccurate

The main reasons for keeping your personal Equifax and TransUnion credit reports accurate are:

  1. Credit worthiness
  2. To impress cell phone providers, landlords, employers as these parties often use our credit report (with permission) to accompany our requests to do business together
  3. To prevent fraud

I truly hope this information has helped you. If you’d like to see similar information from other perspectives, please check out my previous posts such as Nov. 8 2017 or Feb. 25 2020 or Sept. 1 2020

Chow for now,

DGB

Helpful Links:

Ten things that won`t hurt your credit

 Loan-Hub.ca

Identity Theft Education

What happens when I settle overdue debt?

How To Find An Online Canadian Lender

In Canada, for the masses with great credit and no issues, there are chartered banks, many credit unions, some investment banks and some regional banks.

For the self employed, seasonal workers, gig-economy workers and those with poor or no credit history, there are a handful of large national alternative lenders with storefronts charging over 27% interest, a slew of payday lenders in possibly the most litigated form of borrowing over the last 20 plus years.

Starting around 2013-14, fintech became a new term to describe lenders that want you to apply online and get a quick yes or no within one day, no phone consulting and no frills.

Fast forward to 2020 and you’ll notice fintech lenders dominate the alternative lending landscape online. They do not open physical shops and, although they will take calls, they really want online applications from people who are ready to borrow immediately if approved.

With so much to consider, how can you know where to turn?

Here Is What To Do

1. Look for a lender on a mission to do good for its borrowers. Check their website and look for companies whose owners have a passion for helping in tough situations and have been there for years or decades

2. Look for straight answers right away. Ask about fees, how long it will take and what they need in order to approve you

3. Avoid lengthy back and forth phone calls. A true fintech company will make the approval process fully automated, online, fast & easy

4. Reviews matter. A good company will have reviews from real people who have been helped in the past BUT too many reviews and they may have be fake posts bought from an ad company.

I hope this helps!

DGB

Book a consult with me


HELPFUL LINKS

Click here for a loan now

Credit update form

Exit-to-A: Explained

Hi folks!

Today I thought, since I`m always posting about the benefits of credit strategies, I`d explain WHY.

Whether you have multiple high interest debts you want to consolidate, have had a period of layoff from work / medical issues interrupt your ability to earn money, if you are in/past a Consumer Proposal or bankruptcy and simply want to speed up the process of rebuilding your credit or any other issue that has caused financial problems – this is important for you to know.

Before you get in, know how to get out

Getting any type of alternative financing to solve a problem can make sense but it`s all in the details. Using the wrong strategy or no strategy at all often makes things worse not far down the road.

You need to realize that it`s all about the credit report aka your financial resume. Credit reports are not only used to approve credit applications. Prospective landlords and employers usually include a credit report consent blurb in their application forms so they can judge how responsible you are. This may not seem fair, but it`s reality.

When you get any type of loan or financing to pay out other debts, it`s critical that your credit report is quickly updated to reflect the paid out debts. Never assume that this will be done by someone else or you`ll find out the hard way at the worst possible time. Landlords and employers don`t contact you to tell you something looks terrible, you just never hear back or you`re swept aside like dust.

For more details on what`s required to properly update your credit report after payout of debts check out my November 2017 post Receipts

NOW – here`s the savory part: The reason to get alternative financing to get out of arrears is so that you`ll never need alternative financing again.

The following assumes you have even slightly damaged credit, otherwise, proceed to Step 4 below.

Step 1. Get fair alternative financing to pay out debts (high interest cards, collections, etc). Not everything you find on Google is good. Or safe. Anyone who emails me saying they want contact information for the small list of reputable consolidation lenders in Canada will always get a prompt reply with complete details.

Step 2. Get a release letter from each creditor or their agent stating the original account number, agent reference number and confirming no further liability

Step 3. Make your payments on time or early for 6 to 12 months

Step 4. Obtain your free Equifax credit report to ensure accuracy (see links at the bottom of this post)

Step 5. Exit-to-A meaning apply at a bank or credit union to pay out the balance of your alternative financing at a low rate. This is usually done between month 12 and 24 after debt consolidation. Be aware that, besides credit score, another important consideration when borrowing over $15,000 is your debt-to-income-ratio.

I hope this has shed some light on strategic debt consolidation and credit maintenance techniques. You can`t underestimate the importance of getting this right. The reward for nailing this is money in your pocket!

Good luck,

DGB

Book a consult with me

Helpful Links:

Ten things that won`t hurt your credit

 Loan-Hub.ca

Identity Theft Education

What happens when I settle overdue debt?

Free Equifax Credit Report – Canada Call 1-800-465-7166

Credit Update Form

Percent of Income for Rent and Other Expenses

Hi Folks!

As many people are taking the advice from my April 2020 blog post and reviewing their budget, a new question has often come up: How much of my income should be designated to rent and other household expenses?

The answer is part of a calculation called TDSR (Total Debt Service Ratio). This is the percentage of your gros monthly income used for household expenses and minimum debt payments.

When you apply for a mortgage as well as some other loan types, banks and other lenders calculate your TDSR as a way to establish how much you can afford. Overall, the ideal TDSR, from a lender`s perspective, is between 30% and 45%. From a borrower’s perspective, the ideal TDSR is zero, but that only happens when there are no expenses. Here`s how to calculate your TDSR using an example of $6700/month gros income: 

EXPENSE TYPE$TDSR
Rent or mortgage + property tax125018.7% so far
Utilities 5019.4% so far
Cell 6020.3% so far
Car payment 33025.2% so far
Credit card(s) 22028.5% so far
Line(s) of credit 10030%
TOTAL$201030% TDSR
Add rent/mortgage, utilities, cell, car payment and 3% of all debt balances then divide the result into your gros monthly income. The end result is your TDSR.

One of the most important ways TDSR is applied is when you apply for a mortgage in Canada with anything less than 20% down payment, the mortgage must be insured (by CMHC, Genworth or Canada Guarantee) and each insurer allows a maximum TDSR in order to qualify and they sometimes change the rule to reflect how our economy is operating and to try to help keep borrowers safe.

I hope this demonstrates how to budget for changes in your life or just fine tune your finances.

Besh wishes,

DGB

Book a consult with me


Helpful Links:

Ten things that won`t hurt your credit

DEBT CONSOLIDATION LOANS

Identity Theft Education

What happens when I settle overdue debt?

How to Fix or Improve Your Credit Properly

Hi folks! It’s almost autumn and a great time for self improvement.

Here is exactly how to pay a debt to a collection agency or directly to a creditor AND ensure your credit reports not only reflect the payment in full or settlement in full immediately, but also improves your credit score:

  1. Obtain your free Equifax credit report by mail in 5 days by calling 1-800-465-7166. Your address on file with Equifax needs to be up to date to do this. If it’s not, use this form to update and you’ll also receive your free credit report by mail in 5 days. Don’t bother paying for your beacon score
  2. Notice any debt which is overdue is reported in two spots, the Public Record section where collection and legal notices are reported, each with their own unique reference number AND in the tradeline section where, for security, only the last few digits of the account number are reflected.
  3. Contact the agent if there is one, otherwise contact the creditor directly and, unless you already have this, request they EMAIL you a balance letter with BOTH THE ORIGINAL ACCOUNT NUMBER AND THE AGENCY REFERENCE NUMBER ON IT as well as payment instructions. When the notice is received, compare the account and reference number to your credit report. They MUST match
  4. This is when you may choose to offer a lump sum settlement of less than the actual balance to retire the debt. Alternately, if you don’t have a lump sum available, offer a payment schedule you can stick to. Pay in a way that ensures you receive a receipt immediately such as direct deposit, online banking or email money transfer
  5. When the agreed balance is fully paid, request a Release Letter confirming zero balance, no further liability and including the exact same account and reference info as the original demand letter. If the Release Letter shows up without the correct account/reference details, send them a copy of the first letter and politely demand the new letter has matching details
  6. Remember that address update form from step 1? You now use the same form to update both credit bureaus that your debt has been “released”. You will receive a new copy of your credit report proving the paid debts are no longer reflected as over due in both the Public Record section AND the Tradeline sections of your credit report.

NOTE:

If a debt was 180 days over due or less when it was brought to zero balance it will resolve to R1/I1 meaning good debt, if it was more than 180 days over due when the last payment was posted, it will show as R9/I9 “Paid in Full” BUT THE TRADELINE AND UPDATED PUBLIC RECORD WILL NO LONGER BE FACTORED INTO YOUR BEACON SCORE.

As long as you do all of this and use/pay on time any credit reporting account, such as a secured credit card, you will see major credit improvement over the next 6 to 12 months and at 24 months many people are able to be qualified by their bank for an unsecured credit card, personal loan or mortgage.

I have done this many, many times for my clients and, as long as you do it exactly as described here, it works perfectly every time.

You can reach out to me any time for help with this including how to put together money for offering lump sum settlements and I’d be happy to help out.

Enjoy!

DGB

Book a consult with me


Helpful Links:

Ten things that won`t hurt your credit

DEBT CONSOLIDATION LOANS

Identity Theft Education

What happens when I settle overdue debt?

The Art of Communicating

Hi folks!

It’s time to communicate about…communicating.

That might sound weird. Kind of like a practice for a practice (highly recommended!).

Look – at this moment, we all have needs. Financial needs, yes, but we have to nurture our total well-being and that involves communicating. Listening and being heard or better, UNDERSTANDING and being UNDERSTOOD. Right?

I try to communicate to provide solutions to problems experienced by others. Often, the problem we’re experiencing today is on a topic where we could use improvement or a policy review is needed. Working on problem areas feels like a heavy weight and the first half is no fun BUT once addressed, the old issue can be your new best skill or the solution may hold some value to you. Even deciding how to avoid the same problem in the future feels good and is an accomplishment. Document these things.

I hope this helps you and that you found it interesting.

In light of our new mutual agreement to all work on communicating, if I have ever failed to communicate with any of you in any way, for any reason I assure you it was not intentional and I welcome hearing from you anytime!

DGB

Book a consult with me


Helpful Links:

Ten things that won`t hurt your credit

DEBT CONSOLIDATION LOANS

Identity Theft Education

What happens when I settle overdue debt?

BUDGETS – Your favourite topic by far

Good evening folks! Hope everyone is happy and healthy and ready to forget everything they believe about making a budget.

I can hear you 😉 But seriously, this will be fun & you’ll get paid in the form of savings and knowledge.

Open up a spreadsheet. Or grab a pen and paper. Can’t? Too busy? Etcetera?

All good, I made one for you – download below!

Self employed? Here’s a complete record keeping template just for you. You can use this to easily run the book keeping for any small to medium sized business.

That’s it! So simple it requires no further explanation. Just fill in the form, save on your phone or computer and live by it. Hang it on the fridge if you need to.

How often is it that you find everything you’ve been wanting and needing in one place for free?

DGB

Book a consult with me


Helpful Links:

Ten things that won`t hurt your credit

DEBT CONSOLIDATION LOANS

Identity Theft Education

What happens when I settle overdue debt?

DEFERRING PAYMENTS & YOUR CREDIT

Hi folks! Still hanging in there? And by in there I mean indoors! It’s funny cuz it’s very true.

So…this week being what it is, an interesting topic has come up repeatedly. You get zero guesses but here’s my answer:

For as long as I have worked in finance & credit, making a credit payment of less than the minimum balance or more than 30 days after the original due date came with the immediate risk of a credit update showing those allowed to peek that you are in arrears. Many banks and other creditors routinely delay the process of reporting the initial late payment by an extra 30 or even 60 days but rarely longer. This means making a verbal arrangement to pay less than the usual and making or even exceeding the arranged payment will still result in a credit report showing a delinquency. Basically, you could say the higher your interest rate on a balance owing, the less inclined the lender was to lend to you in the first place so they WILL act to prevent default. This means you may wonder how dare they ask you to pay when you may not feel your strongest. If you are suffering, your creditor is compassionate however, they may be suffering as well. Many finance companies, department stores and many iconic brands have closed in recent years.

In summary, make a late creditor payment, even if they said it was ok, don’t be surprised if your trade line reflects a default of the original terms of the credit piece.

Will mortgage renewals be as easy to negotiate favourably? We know you do NOT want to “settle” an unsecured consumer debt with the same bank that holds your mortgage. This news is old and well tested. Don’t do it. Other creditors – yes often but that’s talk for a different thread.

Will prospective employers who use a credit report glance as part of their pre-hire due diligence adjust their risk exposure? Remember that when a company hires an employee with debts in collections, the employers staff often get stuck fielding the calls asking to verify employment. I think an educated employer would want to avoid expending their resources in this way by choosing best credit history.

VIDEO: What to do if you`ve been denied credit

DGB

Book a consult with me


Helpful Links:

Ten things that won`t hurt your credit

DEBT CONSOLIDATION LOANS

Identity Theft Education

What happens when I settle overdue debt?

Free Equifax Credit Report – Canada Call 1-800-465-7166

Credit Update Form

CREDIT EFFECTS OF CANCELLING A CREDIT CARD

Hello!

This is an interesting topic I was recently asked to discuss.

Replacing a lost or stolen credit card should not hurt your credit score as the old account is simply transferred to a new account number & reported to Equifax & TransUnion accordingly. The old closed accounts would show as closed with zero balance.

Problems, however, can arise when lost or stolen credit cards are closed without transferring them to a new account through the card provider. This could happen when you have zero balances and assume there is no urgency in getting an uncompromised card. Credit scores are algorithm generated numbers and are effected by such events as not using credit and not paying at least the minimum payment by the due date.

The good news is that your beacon score fluctuates up and down in a predictable way and what can be done can be undone quickly.

Should you find yourself in a postion where your beacon score is suffering for this reason, visit your bank or other credit card provider. Explain you cancelled your lost or stolen credit card but did not transfer it to a new account. Provided there are no red flags they will identify you & usually will be more than happy to open a new credit card account for you on the spot. The new account should report to Equifax & TransUnion as an active account within 30 days of it’s first use.

The ideal way to use a credit card is to have your recurring payments such as Netflix, etc go on the card & to pay off the balance in full by the due date every month. Some people do the same with their groceries and, if it’s a points card, there are benefits to putting almost everything on the card to accumulate points faster. The key is to pay the balance in full by the due date every month or you will incur interest.

You can get your free Equifax credit report in Canada by dialing 1-800-465-7166, confirming your identity with their automated system & your credit report will usually arrive via mail within 5 business days in most cases.

I recommend you self-pull your Equifax report before and after any credit issue such as the one discussed here.

If this post has helped you in any way, please let me know by leaving a comment below.

Cheers for now!

DGB

Book a consult with me


Helpful Links:

Ten things that won`t hurt your credit

DEBT CONSOLIDATION LOANS

Identity Theft Education

What happens when I settle overdue debt?

ANATOMY OF A STRATEGIC CREDIT REHABILITATION

Hi folks! Today let`s make sure everyone is clear about what a successful debt consolidation should accomplish.

The benefits of getting this exactly right are far reaching and the quality of the strategy and how it`s implemented WILL effect the quality of your life in a big way.

Debt consolidation does not always require a loan. Any money from any source will do. What you need to be prepared for is that not all change is good. Only undo what isn`t helping you and only add what will help you.

In many ways, a successful debt consolidation should be like fixing a broken bone. You wear a cast only long enough to perfectly repair the damage, then you move on stronger than before.

HERE`S WHAT IT SHOULD LOOK LIKE:

  • Consumer inquires to service provider, receives free consultation to explain service benefits and is referred to service providers secured website
  • Consumer provides CASL compliant summary of information and supporting documents to service provider
  • Service provider analyzes new account and presents customized solution strategy to consumer
  • Service provider arranges new money (i.e unlock failing RRSP, arrange financing, consumer sells property, etc)
  • Consumer’s debts are paid in full or settled in full as arranged
  • Service provider gathers creditor receipts, drafts manual credit update package and provides all to consumer with easy mailing instructions
  • Service provider follows up with consumer to ensure consolidation exit strategy is understood (usually in 12 months)
  • Exit strategy is implemented

I hope this has helped and motivated you to learn more. The links provided in this post are designed to guide you to what works.

Cheers for now!

DGB

Book a consult with me


Helpful Links:

Ten things that won`t hurt your credit

DEBT CONSOLIDATION LOANS

Identity Theft Education

What happens when I settle overdue debt?

Financial Literacy Month

Hey fellow Canadians!

Has it been a year already? Like I always say: Let’s make it a learning experience.

Here are the main things I feel all Canadians should know beginning in childhood-

Credit Management

Our personal credit history, or lack of, is reported by Equifax and Trans Union to it’s paid subscribers in the form of a personal credit report.

Our personal credit report is used for a lot more than assessing credit applications. We are also judged by employers, landlords, cell service providers, etc. They judge our levels of responsibility and maturity based on what they see and once we are judged poorly we may not get a chance to explain.

You can learn about using receipts to keep your credit report accurate, the importance of auditing your own credit at least every 12 months and develop an understanding that credit should only be used to leverage yourself not as a piggy bank.

Record Keeping

Self explanatory but needs to be understood and practiced starting in childhood. Here are some tips

Savings and Debt Reduction

Here are some tips

Financial Environment

The decisions we make lead to habits and tendencies which create a Financial Environment and getting it right is the difference between success and failure. I speak more about this here.

Hope you enjoy!

Derek G. Boucher



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DO I QUALIFY??

Hi Folks!

As school ends, activities & family schedules change along with a review of financial priorities and goals.

Debt consolidation & the many savings achieved from strategically leveraging good credit throughout life are a daily conversation in my life.

I speak to dozens of Canadians each day needing guidance to overcome damaged credit, bad debt, low income and a variety of circumstances that may have led to or resulted from these types of problems.

In an effort to reach out to more people I offer you all a simple 4-section template designed to easily help you understand whether or not you will immediately qualify for a loan to consolidate a) all of your debt OR b) only your overdue debt.

Although some people’s situations may require special attention, the chart is a very good general guideline.

Simply click on the “DO I QUALIFY??” link at the top of this blog entry, save a copy on your computer or network and go back to it anytime you want.

The information you enter on the form is not saved by this website in any way.

Enjoy and let me know if this helps or interests you.

IMPORTANT: My templates are not to be sold. You understand and agree that no advice is given, received or implied simply by the use of my templates.



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High Interest or Leverage Opportunity?

Hi folks! As summer warms things up I’d like to pass on some advice that will warm up your ability to not only recover from financial hardship but PROSPER in the shortest time possible.

Let’s talk strategy!

You have $15,000 in overdue credit card debt which, as some of you may know, I would have settled for $9000 and I would help you update your Equifax and TransUnion reports so you see rapid credit improvement in 12 months.

A loan for $9000 at 15% interest costs $1262.57 in interest during the first 12 months. The total interest over 5 years (60 months) would be $3846…

…BUT

…You shouldn’t stay unnecessarily comfortable for four years after the initial 12 month credit repair stage.

You should “exit to A” which means be prepared to graduate to a less expensive bank loan at the end of month 12.

Therefore in month 13 your balance is $7693.12 at est. 6.25% rate making your total interest paid in year two $442.50

Continuing above for 2 more years to complete the loan costs another $351.05

Using this strategy the borrower would have paid a total of $2056.12 in interest to pay off a loan of $9000 over four years which is exactly the same as paying an interest rate of 8.41% on $9000 over five years

PLUS……you get the initial $6k in settlement savings and properly rebuilt credit along with all of the benefits of strong credit.

Yep do it THAT way! 😎

Cheers,

-DGB



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DEBT CONSOLIDATION FOR CREDIT REPAIR – CHOOSE YOUR OWN PATH

Hello folks!

Today I’m going to provide a step by step for anyone who wants to consolidate their debts with the goal of savings and credit repair in mind.

This works for any type of debts including personal lines of credit, business lines of credit, bank or retail store credit cards, vehicle loans, student loans, overdraft, payday loans, income tax, property tax, money owed to a collection agency, etc.

Debt consolidation can take many forms and does not always involve borrowing. To help you explore every option, please scroll to the section that applies to you:

1. Why Would I Consolidate My Debts?

When done properly, debt consolidation will save you money now, re-establish your credit within 12 to 24 months and save you money later. You will save money now by paying less interest/penalties. The more you owe, the more you will save. Credit repair is dependent on your personal credit report being updated after each debt is paid out. Saving money later will occur as your credit improves by graduating to less expensive credit products. Not all credit professionals adhere to these principles so for the best care and advice click here

2. Locked In RRSP’s

You can use your Locked In RRSP as a tool to consolidate your debts. For more help on this click here

3. Debt Consolidation If You Own Real Estate

You can use your house, condo, farm, bare land, commercial property or mobile home (yes even on rented space) as a tool to consolidate your debts even with bad credit. To learn more click here

4. Debt Consolidation If You Have No Assets

You can use your income as a tool to consolidate your debts and repair your credit. To learn more click here



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ADDICTION TO DEBT IS REAL

HI FOLKS!

Let’s talk about something you may have never considered – Psychological addiction to DEBT. This is real and very serious!

I’m sure many of you will relate to the following:

John or Jane Doe has credit card debt at 20 – 29% interest. Payments are usually made on time but the cards are all nearly maxed out and only the monthly payment or slightly more is paid back monthly. No big deal, right? Wrong! The card holder couldn’t afford their required purchases so the solution is to pay 20% – 30% more???

I know most of you see there’s a problem here but what is the problem? Is it lack of income? Is it the creditor’s fault for charging too much? Is it “the system”?

What’s been described in paragraph three, folks, is ADDICTION.

Psychological addiction simply means you did something, no immediate pain was felt, you did the same thing again and now it’s a habit. Over wearing your favourite pair of jeans is the same theory except the jeans don’t hurt you long term. Debt and failure to understand it’s short and long term consequences does hurt A LOT. In fact, statistics show that 36% of Canadians are suffering due to their decisions about debt.

If you had 10 identical boxes of rice all 1/10 full in your kitchen cupboard, what would you do? I bet you’d poor all of the rice into a single box to make things more organized.

I feel the main reason people don’t know to do the same with their problematic debt is not because they lack intelligence or common sense but because they are afraid of debt and they feel their lack of expertise on the subject will lead them to making a poor choice. People are afraid of change.

No, don’t ask your bank to finance your overdue debt – they won’t. Also don’t go to the well known companies that charge 47% interest. They know your history of poor choices makes you an easy target for another terrible choice. What should you do?

Speak to someone who’s first priority is educating you on all of your options and who’s second priority is saving you money now and down the road by providing you with an understanding of personal credit management and a few really easy to understand actions you can take to make huge improvements.

Maybe not all change is scary, when it helps you progress from something bad to something good.

For those of you who want leads on where to get great advise here are some helpful links:

https://www.Loan-Hub.ca

https://cdncreditmatters.org/derek/



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DEBT CONSOLIDATION DONE RIGHT


Many Canadians want to restructure their finances for various reasons and saving money is often high on the list of priorities. The decisions they make lead to habits and tendencies which create that person’s “financial environment” and getting it right is the difference between success and failure.

FINANCIAL ENVIRONMENT
Your financial environment is your position relative to risks. Basically, savings and assets versus expenses keeping in mind income security.

Everyone reading this has probably seen themselves or others work hard to get into a situation where they are very likely to succeed with multiple projects in progress while having strategies in place to watch for and correct any issues. Some may call this being “in the zone”. I prefer to call it “smart planning” and I’ve adhered firmly to the principle both personally and in business for a long time. This is the mind set required with debt consolidation. A summary of things to remember will follow.

Debt consolidation should, under NO circumstances, involve any of the following:

1. Assumption that a loan is the only solution

2. Loan interest of over 15% per year (secured) or 30%(unsecured)

3. Loan term of over 12 to 24 months except in certain circumstances

4. Payments to a debt management agent or other agent who accepts payment intended for distribution to creditors other than a Chartered Insolvency Professional

5. Any assumption that a personal credit report will be updated to properly reflect the lump sum payout of debts or that loan company management or bankers have any experience, knowledge or motivation in the category of credit repair

6. Failure to focus on overall credit improvement AND save you money now AND save you money later

7. Reliance on a third party to confirm the state of your credit.

All Canadians can obtain a copy of their free credit report and can also correct any inaccuracies within thirty days

TO FIND OUT MORE CLICK HERE

 



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Canada Student Loan – Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP)

Canada Student Loan Borrowers in British Columbia and Ontario:

Are you affected by the wildfires and need help making your loan payments? Contact the government at 1-888-815-4514 to fast-track your application for the Repayment Assistance Plan.

The Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) and the Repayment Assistance Plan for Borrowers with a Permanent Disability (RAP-PD) makes it easier for you to manage your student loan debt by reducing your monthly payment.

https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/education/repayment-assistance-plan.html

Your monthly student loan payments would either be reduced or you would not have to make any payments, depending on your financial situation. If you have a permanent disability, it could also depend on your permanent disability-related expenses, which include allowable uninsured medical expenses, special care and other expenses directly related to your permanent disability.

Enrolment is not automatic and you must re-apply for this plan every six months.

Note: If your loans were issued to you by Prince Edward Island or Manitoba, you must apply directly to your province for repayment assistance for your provincial loan. Contact your provincial student financial assistance office to find out more.



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Free Daybook (bookkeeping) Templates

Free Daybooks Templates Link

Hello self-employed friends!

Many individuals become self employed because they are extremely skilled at providing a particular product or service, however, many put much less time into ensuring they are equally skilled at actually running a business properly.

Getting stuck owing personal or corporate income tax, GST/PST/HST, payroll deductions, etc is not fun and can often translate into other types of debts when improper strategies are applied. This is often how the process of accumulating bad debt and weak credit begin, the cost of which is very real and consequential.

To help you all, I provide the following free forms which are all you’ll ever need to properly keep books for your small to medium sole proprietorship, corporation or charity. Simply click on the “Daybook Templates” link at the top of the blog entry, open, scroll to the top to see the templates and click from tab to tab to see the different forms you will need. Save a copy on your computer or network when customized or save and go back to it later if you prefer then fire your book keeper. Nothing against your bookkeeper personally but the investor (i.e. your spouse) is demanding a better ROI ;P .

Enjoy and let me know if this helps or interests you.

IMPORTANT: My templates are not to be sold. You understand and agree that no advice is given, received or implied simply by the use of my templates.


Should I pay off my debts or save for emergencies?

I often hear people talking about the decision to either pay off debts or keep the money & build savings.

Your credit card charging you interest is 100% guaranteed while an emergency is a big maybe. Logic dictates you would pay off debt to the best of your ability even if it jeopardizes your savings plan while USING CREDIT STRATEGICALLY to ensure you have a credit history without incurring interest by paying it in full monthly.

The money you save by not paying interest increases your savings potential. Every time you pay debt you increase your personal net worth by an amount equal to the payment BUT you must reduce cash savings by the amount of interest incurred on debt to calculate your personal net worth which makes it less profitable.

Once you pay off debt and the savings begin, you should invest the savings in an income tax exempt product like an RRSP linked to an Exempt Market product so that, in addition to the tax savings, you earn 7 – 10% per year rather than the 1 – 3% paid by banks.

In summary: Pay debt first, save as a result then invest the savings to save income tax & grow your retirement savings. This is the best strategy around for people with only small money to play with.

No bank will ever tell you this because they can’t sell Exempt Market products because they cannot earn commissions from them AND they want you to be in debt due to the interest they earn.

DGB



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Bell Mobility – One third of Telecom Complaints

Telecom complaints are up 73% and Bell was the subject of over 33% of them (source: https://www.itbusiness.ca/news/telecom-related-complaints-went-up-73-last-year-and-bell-received-one-third-of-them/100900)

WITHOUT PREJUDICE

I have noticed a pattern so I’ve given special attention to Bell over the past 2 months. During this time I have personally spoken to many people with complaints against Bell Mobility regarding incorrect billing. They all say Bell tried billing them incorrectly but when they complained, either directly or through CCTS (Commission for Complaints Telecom-Television Services), the incorrect billing was eventually withdrawn. Bell may try to give the impression they simply made a mistake but, due to the disproportionate number of complaints against the company, it may be considered evidence of violations on Canadians who aren’t fully aware of the wireless code and therefore pay despite no liability.

Bell Mobility and its affiliates combined reportedly have 9.008 million subscribers as of the end of Q3 2017, making them Canada’s second largest wireless carrier.

Here are some rough numbers. Suppose one in twenty Bell Mobility customers are incorrectly billed each year and suppose one in a hundred of those pay anyway. This would result in over 18,000 Bell Mobility customers getting ripped off each year. HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT THIS? Again, Bell is Canada’s second largest wireless carrier. Do you believe they are innocently making an honest mistake? Does that excuse them?

At the time of drafting this blog, shares of BCE Inc. are reportedly trading for $53.89. Is fending off complaints this how the company uses their investors resources?

– DGB



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Foreign Buyer’s Tax on Apartments (BC)

GOOD NEWS BC !!!
Selina Robinson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing in BC, has confirmed that, after pressure from the public, the Class 1 Residential classification, which is used to administer the Foreign Buyer’s Tax, will NOT apply to apartment buildings! This is good news for many BC residential tenants as it is one less cost for landlords to pass on to renters.



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Ban Door To Door Sales of Home Energy Systems

This is an urgent Credit issue requiring the immediate attention of all Canadians who have purchased home energy products such as furnaces, water heaters (see full list at the bottom*)

In Canada, companies feel they can convince you to buy home energy systems such as furnaces and water heaters as well as contracts for gas and hydro as long as they can gain your trust. The preferred method of these companies is to send aggressive sales people to your door and convince you to let them inside your home. They often add bait to the hook by suggesting things like a free energy evaluation of your home, etc.

In January 2017, the Alberta NDP government under the Fair Trading Act, banned door to door sales of unsolicited household energy products. This means that, unless you invite them, no one can knock on your door and offer these items to you for sale. The banned items are water heaters, windows, air conditioners and energy audits*.

Since the January 2017 ban in Alberta, sales agents often tell customers that they’re selling un-banned items such air filters or LED light bulbs but once they’re in your home they begin pitching banned products. They believe they are now considered an invited guest and are free to consider themselves “solicited”. THIS IS ILLEGAL!

If a supplier is charged under Alberta’s Fair Trading Act, the maximum penalty is up to $300,000 AND two years in jail. The supplier can also be subject to administrative penalties of up to $100,000.

Pressure is being added in Manitoba and other jurisdictions to make similar changes. In 2017, Manitoba’s Consumer Protection Office received 19 complaints on this subject but there are more Manitobans out there failing to speak up. Remember, in Alberta it only took 1000 complaints to the Consumer Protection office before changes were made so THE TIME TO BE HEARD IS NOW!

I have (and will continue) to contact journalists from major news organizations to gain support for this issue and from there I will bring it to the attention of provincial law makers BUT NO ONE WILL CARE UNLESS WE GET PUBLIC SUPPORT THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA AND OTHER SOURCES so please comment below and on our Facebook page and please be prepared to sign a petition if asked.

*IMPORTANT:
On the financial side, Albertans who have purchased banned products (water heaters, windows, air conditioners and energy audits) PRIOR to January 1 2017 and who still owe money to the seller can negotiate settlements for savings or, in some cases, forgiveness of the debt. The same will soon be true in many other provinces once the pressure on law makers proves too much and the related reputation damage to private corporations reduces the value of these accounts by 50 to 80% in the next 3 to 12 months.

I run a financial services company called DBO VENTURES FINANCIAL and have successfully arranged settlements with savings in the thousands of dollars for consumers with debts owed for the banned products mentioned above prior to the change in laws.

Those who owe money to these companies can contact me directly at 1-866-277-1048 to learn how you can save a lot of money and have the lien associated with the debt removed from your land title. This is a free consultation.

Full List of included products:

  • Air cleaners
  • Air conditioners
  • Air purifiers
  • Duct cleaning services
  • Furnaces
  • Water filters
  • Water heaters
  • Water purifiers
  • Water softeners
  • Water treatment devices
  • Bundles of these goods and service



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Manitoba RRSP Unlocking Rules

 

I spoke to someone in Manitoba today who is receiving treatment for a serious illness and needs some additional money. Meanwhile they have a locked-in RRSP with a major financial institution which they cannot unlock to help with personal and medical expenses. They cannot unlock the RRSP because the Manitoba provincial government’s legislature adds 6% growth to the current value of the RRSP until the owner reaches age 65 and if the result is over that year’s threshold, no access to funds is possible.

WELL…this person tells me the current plan value has gone down in the last 12 months with no withdrawal.

There could be a strong argument that the Manitoba government needs to revise their private RRSP unlock regulations to reflect the reality that people are experiencing and to address the fact that people sometimes need to use their resources to escape extreme financial hardship. We all know many financial problems often become more expensive over time. In other words, a solution today often costs less than a solution tomorrow.

In the example above, the RRSP is with a very well know Canadian Bank who manage many private RRSP’s. Are the plan owners simply supposed to let the RRSP shrink to zero while provincial regulations ignore the truth and prevent people from accessing their hard earned money, often at the most important decision making time of their life? I realize the government believes it needs to restrict people from using their retirement funds prematurely and this may be true but only for fiscal reasons and maybe an ounce of prevention would be better than what comes later in the long run.

If enough people care about this and post comments here and on our Facebook page I will use the momentum created to add pressure to people who can influence change SO LET ME KNOW. Thanks

 

 

 



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Receipts

One important area of focus is on the subject of Debtors receiving properly identifiable letters of release after paying a delinquent debt to a creditor or their agent. Currently, provincial regulations across Canada range from failing to require any documentation to prove the debt has been paid to failing to require documentation which is sufficient for updating personal credit reports.  

ALBERTA FAIR TRADING ACT

Currently, the Collections And Debt Repayment Practices Regulation section of the Alberta Fair Trading Act – Section 21, subsection (1) states:

Every collection agency and debt repayment agency must acknowledge the receipt of all cash transactions made in person, or payments made at the debtor’s request that the collection agency or debt repayment agency or a collector, debt repayment agent or employee collects or receives from a debtor for distribution to the debtor’s creditors by means of receipts that meet the requirements of subsection (2).

Subsection (2) states:

The receipts referred to in subsection (1) must contain  (a) the date the amount is collected or received, (b) the name of the debtor, (c) the name of the person for whom the collection agency or debt repayment agency acts, and (d) the amount received from the debtor.

 BRITISH COLUMBIA, SASKATCHEWAN AND MANITOBA

The following provincial regulators all have similar shortcomings with regards to regulation that fails to understand how to integrate the rights of Canadian consumers with existing legislation:

  1. BPCPA’s Debt Collection/Debt Repayment regulation (B.C.)
  2. Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority’s Collection Agent’s Act (SK)
  3. Consumer Protection Office’s Collection Practices

 THIS IS INSUFFICIENT !

Equifax Canada and TransUnion will both amend personal credit reports within 30 days of notification by the consumer using THIS FORM, as per the Access to Information Act and both are quite reliable in sending letters of confirmation to a consumer upon receipt of such a request provided proper verification is received. Proper verification procedure requires that the creditors original account number (or, for security purposes the last few digits) be prominently displayed on the receipt (i.e. Release Letter). In the case of updating a collection in the Public Record section of a consumer credit report, the agent’s reference number for credit reporting purposes much be prominently displayed on the receipt (i.e. Release Letter). Failure to clarify exactly which debt was paid by providing account and/or reference numbers on receipts may be interpreted as passive-aggressively continuing to attempt collection on an already paid debt by virtue of the debt continuing to be displayed on the consumer’s personal credit report as an unpaid debt. This weakens a consumer’s beacon score or prevents improvement of a weak beacon score which leads to an array of far-reaching issues such as inability to qualify for a new mortgage or excessively high home ownership costs due to interest rate increase by chartered banks at mortgage maturity or due to the need for alternate financing  when criteria for approval by chartered banks are no longer met. 

CCCM intends to add pressure to law makers, starting in the provinces mentioned above, so that provincial regulations can be updated to reflect the basic rights of consumers and to better align these provincial rules with the federal Access to Information Act.

This goal requires YOUR SUPPORT! We aren’t asking for money as we are not a business for profit. We ask you to simply comment on this blog and our Facebook page by adding your supportive messages. This will demonstrate to law makers that we are not alone in our drive for Canadian businesses in the credit industry to co-operate with consumers who pay their overdue debts after overcoming financial hardship and provide useful documentation that satisfies not only the creditor’s limited concept of how to close an account but the wider, more accurate fact that failure to revise policies as per our suggestion is abusive to consumers, a violation of the Access to Information Act and makes the creditor liable for damages in the event of a claim. People are waking up and are refusing to be damaged by failures to properly interpret simple laws therefore the provinces must align their rules with existing federal rules before things get complicated for businesses who offer or who collect credit debts.



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