Dealing with Debt (10:V)

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A. Introduction

NOTE: The following applies to individuals only. Before advising a client about dealing with their debts, the student should ensure that the client, in fact, is liable for the alleged debts. Be sure to determine who the actual creditor is. When a creditor assigns an account to a third party agency the third party does not become the creditor. There are situations, however, where third parties purchase accounts from creditors and thereby become the creditors themselves. Creditor remedies can differ depending on the type of creditor, in particular if a debt is owed to the government. Most clients do not seek advice until long after they have become overburdened with debts, however, getting help sooner rather than later will leave a client with more options available to them. Financial counselling may be of assistance to explore which options will work best. NOTE: Many counsellors and trustees provide an initial consultation at no cost. Consumers should be aware that unless they are going to meet with a lawyer they need not pay for an initial consultation. B.Debtors’ A ssistance Referrals and Resources The Credit Counselling Society is a non-profit organization that assists people who are experiencing difficulties with debts. They provide free and confidential counselling with highly trained counsellors. They can answer questions over the phone or by online chat, Monday – Saturday, with extended hours. NOTE:Exercise caution when hiring a credit counsellor. There are a number of credit counselling agencies that collect fees from a debtor and do not contact the creditor until they have collected enough money to cover their own fees, thus leaving the debtor vulnerable to creditor action. Any corporation that collects and/or settles debt in BC should be registered with the Consumer Protection Agency (the Credit Counselling Society is a licensed organization). For information on your rights relating to debt collection, refer to the Debt