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How Much Debt Do You Need to File a Consumer Proposal or Bankruptcy?

Picture this: you’re at the kitchen table, bills spread out like a losing hand of cards. You shuffle through credit card statements, student loan reminders, maybe even a tax notice from the CRA. The total feels overwhelming—but then another thought creeps in: “Is it even bad enough yet to do something about it?”

The truth? You don’t need to wait for six figures of debt before exploring options like a consumer proposal or bankruptcy. There are clear thresholds—and knowing them can help you take action sooner rather than later.

Why Debt Thresholds Matter

The Importance of Knowing Your Options Early

Many people delay getting help because they assume their debt “isn’t bad enough.” Meanwhile, interest keeps growing, collection calls keep buzzing, and the weight of it all starts bleeding into everyday life. Debt isn’t a competition—if it feels unmanageable to you, it’s worth looking at your options.

The earlier you explore solutions like a consumer proposal, bankruptcy, or even debt consolidation, the more choices you’ll have. Acting sooner often means less stress and a smoother path forward.

Consumer Proposal vs. Bankruptcy: Different Triggers

A consumer proposal has clear minimum and maximum limits on how much debt qualifies. Bankruptcy, on the other hand, isn’t about the number—it’s about whether you can realistically keep up with payments. Both provide relief, but they’re triggered differently.

How Much Debt Do You Need for a Consumer Proposal?

Minimum and Maximum Debt Limits

To qualify for a consumer proposal, you must owe at least $1,000 in unsecured debt and be insolvent — meaning you’re unable to pay your debts as they come due. You must also have no more than $250,000 in total debt, excluding any mortgage on your principal residence. If filing jointly with a spouse, the combined debt must not exceed $500,000 (again, excluding mortgages on principal residences).

Note: Each individual must meet the $250,000 threshold independently. For example, if one spouse has $400,000 in unsecured debt and the other has $100,000, the higher-debt spouse would not qualify to file a consumer proposal.

Types of Debts Eligible

So, what kinds of debts can be included in a proposal? Here are the most common:

  • Credit cards
  • Payday loans
  • CRA balances and tax debt
  • Lines of credit
  • Personal loans
  • Student loans (if it’s been 7+ years since you left school)

Secured debts—like mortgages or car loans—aren’t included. But here’s the good news: as long as you keep up with those payments, you usually keep the asset.

Pros and Cons of a Consumer Proposal

Like any debt solution, a consumer proposal has its ups and downs. It can be a lifesaver in the right situation, but it does come with trade-offs. Here’s what that looks like:

Pros:

  • Cuts down what you owe (and sometimes by a big amount)
  • Stops interest the moment it’s filed
  • Combines all your debts into one simple monthly payment
  • It lets you hold on to your home, car, and personal belongings

Cons:

  • Stretches out over 3 to 5 years
  • Shows up on your credit report as an R7 while you’re in it, and for six years after filing, or three years after completion
  • Getting new credit during the proposal can be tricky

For many people, the positives far outweigh the negatives. A proposal often feels like a middle path: you get relief and structure without having to sacrifice the things you’ve worked hard to keep.

How Much Debt Do You Need for Bankruptcy?

Minimum Debt Required

Bankruptcy can start at as little as $1,000 in unsecured debt—but here’s the catch: you also need to show that you can’t keep up with payments. So even if your debt isn’t massive, if it’s unmanageable, bankruptcy could still apply.

No Maximum Debt Cap

Here’s where bankruptcy really stands apart from a proposal: there’s no upper limit. It doesn’t matter whether you owe $10,000 or a million dollars. If the debt can’t be managed, bankruptcy is an option.

Pros and Cons of Bankruptcy

Bankruptcy comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. It can provide quick relief, but it also has a bigger impact on your credit and assets.

Pros:

  • A first-time bankruptcy can finish quickly — sometimes in just 9 months (depending on income)
  • Immediately stops garnishments, lawsuits, and collection calls
  • Gives you a complete financial reset

Cons:

  • Hits your credit harder than a proposal (it’s recorded as an R9, the most severe rating)
  • You may have to part with certain assets depending on your situation and where you live
  • If you earn above a set income level, you may need to make additional monthly payments and wait longer to get a discharge. If there’s a previous bankruptcy, the time frame is even longer for a discharge and the length of time the bankruptcy stays on the credit rating (14 years vs 7).

Although bankruptcy is often seen as the “last resort,” for some people it’s the fastest way to lift an unbearable weight and finally start fresh.

Bankruptcy or Consumer Proposal in Canada: Which Is Better?

Key Differences in Cost

Think of cost as a tug-of-war. With a consumer proposal, you’ll usually pay more back overall, but at a discount and over time. Bankruptcy can look cheaper, but if you earn above a certain level, those extra “surplus income” payments can sneak in and drive up the bill.

Impact on Assets

This one’s simple: a proposal lets you keep your stuff. Bankruptcy? You might have to give up certain things — although basics like clothing, furniture, and often your car are protected. For many people, this is the dealbreaker.

Effect on Credit Score

Both hit your credit, just differently. A proposal shows up as an R7, while bankruptcy lands as an R9. Neither sticks around forever, but proposals are usually gentler when it comes to rebuilding.

Duration and Discharge

Bankruptcy is quick, sometimes taking just 9 months. Proposals last longer, up to 5 years, but you can pay them off early if life takes a turn for the better.

Factors That Influence Your Choice

Income Level and Surplus Income Rules

If your paycheque is steady (or above average), bankruptcy might actually cost more. Proposals keep things simple with one fixed payment you can plan around.

Long-Term Financial Goals

Want to hang onto your home equity or certain retirement savings?  A consumer proposal makes that possible. Want to reset as fast as humanly possible? Bankruptcy might be your path.

Personal Tolerance for Risk and Stress

For some people, bankruptcy makes more sense given their circumstances. Some, want the stability of keeping their assets, even if it takes longer. The “better” choice is the one that lets you finally breathe again.

Next Steps: Find Out If a Consumer Proposal or Bankruptcy Is Right for You

Here’s the truth: you don’t have to figure this out on your own. Only Licensed Insolvency Trustees (LITs) can file either option, and they’re the people who can lay it all out for you. They’ll help you understand what each path means — and which one actually makes sense for your life.

Explore Debt Relief Tools Before It’s Too Late

Don’t wait until stress takes over your daily life. Whether it’s a consumer proposal, bankruptcy, or another solution like the debt snowball method, there’s a path forward.

Book a free consultation with Farber today and picture this instead: the kitchen table clear of bills, no more dreaded calls from creditors, just space to breathe — and plan your next chapter.

Posted

16th October 2025

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