There were multiple media stories a few weeks ago that the bankruptcies and proposals in Canada are rising rapidly. They were up over 9% from April a year ago nationally.
OK, that’s true. But…First, it’s comparing a pretty low year, so the percentages are quite misleading – percentages almost always are. Just look at the report that Vancouver home sales were up 44% last month over a year ago. Yes, but off an incredibly brutal April last year. So I always want to see the real numbers and not the percentages. In BC there were 22 more actual bankruptcies than a year ago, in Alberta exactly 100 more, and less than 150 for the whole country. (That’s bankruptcies and not proposals where there is some kind of payback set up through a trustee).
Every single bankruptcy is a very personal and often tragic or heartbreaking story. Yet, every person who has to file, should also be admitting that they caused it and are responsible in one way – some small or big way – or another. There is zero chance someone who is debt free will ever file for bankruptcy.
For anyone coming out of bankruptcy the question to ask is if they’ve learned that lesson and will never go down the debt road again. Then, read the rebuilding credit chapter in the Money Tools book for the five steps (and only five) to rebuilding your credit.
For anyone wondering if they can make it back from the edge of financial trouble, here are a few things to consider:
-There is a recession coming. I first started talking about it a year ago. It’s going to rain – get an umbrella now. Pay off what you can. Not a few bucks extra here and there – read the step up plan to pay off your debts smallest to largest.
-Most people also don’t need to file for bankruptcy. Canada does not have a debtor prison. It’s perfectly OK to stop paying your credit card. They’ll call, they’ll have a fit, they’ll send you nasty letters but that’s it. Tell them calmly that you don’t have the money and you can email them your bills in order of priority and your income. They’re not even going to want it – trust me.
-Ask yourself if you have your priorities straight: Food, shelter and utilities are fist. If you have enough income for a roof over your head and food you’re doing OK. Everything else comes after that. When you’re out of money on paying your priorities – the rest will have to wait – period.
George Boelcke – Money Tools & Rules book – yourmoneybook.com