Debt and Borrowing

A balance transfer credit card moves debt to a low promotional rate. Here is what it costs in Canada, and the payment rule that decides whether it works.

A consumer proposal almost always costs more than bankruptcy. See what that premium buys, when it is worth paying, and when bankruptcy is the better call.

Federal rules fix every consumer proposal fee: $750 on filing, $750 on approval, 20% of creditor payments. See what actually reaches your creditors.

Denied at mortgage renewal? Your lender owes you 21 days notice. Here is the timeline, what a lower payment really costs, and the options that still work.

Debt consolidation combines several debts into one payment. What it costs in Canada at current Bank of Canada rates, when it saves money, and when it does not.

Your bank's chargeback is one route. Ontario and Quebec give you a second written one with legislated deadlines. Both explained, with the rules cited.

Cancelling a card takes three steps with your issuer. What it does to your credit score, which card to close, and what keeps billing after you close it.

Most Canadians hold two or three cards. What really decides the right number for you, how card count moves your credit score, and when one card is enough.

A consumer proposal is a binding offer to settle unsecured debt through a Licensed Insolvency Trustee. How it works, who qualifies, what you pay.

Never paying a collection agency is not a rule, it is a myth with a real fact behind it. Here is what a payment does to the limitation clock in each province.

Asset-based lending is credit secured by a borrower's specific assets (receivables, inventory, equipment) rather than cash flow. Here is how it works.

Private credit is direct lending by non-bank funds to mid-sized companies. Here is how it works, why it has grown 17x since 2009, and what risks to watch.