Money problems: When debt catches up

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Do you have money problems?

  1. Are you:
    • spending more than you earn?
    • using credit cards all the time?
    • borrowing money monthly?
    • paying only the minimum payment due on credit?
  2. Are creditors:
    • calling you for payment?
    • threatening to sue?
    • saying that they will get your car, furniture or other possessions?
  3. Were your utilities (hydro, water, telco, etc.) cut because you cannot pay your bills?

Get help if you have said yes to any or all of the above.

How to get help

Follow these steps:

  1. Admit your problem. Stop spending and adding to your debt.
  2. Get debt counselling. Debt or financial counselling agencies offer solutions.
    Go to:

Financial literacy programs:

Learn good habits to handle money:

Your Rights: Collection agency

It is against the law for a collection agency to:

  • phone or visit before 7:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m.
  • phone or visit on a Sunday or a statutory holiday.
  • trick you with a paper that looks like a legal document or a court form.
  • harass you or your family.
  • say that they will repossess goods without authority.
  • get any goods when no one is at your home, except with court authority.
  • harass neighbours or friends to know the where you (or members of your family) are.
  • get any item that they are not authorized to get.
  • phone or telegram collect. (Collection Practices, Manitoba Consumer Protection Office)

Contact the Consumer Protection Office if you have questions.
 
Sources: Consumed by debt? Government of Canada site; and Consumer Protection, Manitoba.ca. All accessed October 5, 2017.

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Community Resources

Read Talking about Money to help you handle your money in Canada.

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