How much to offer debt settlement?

debt settlement offer, how much to offer debt settlement, Saskatchewan

Starting debt talks in Canada? Offer around 20%-30% of your debt if you can show financial stress. Be flexible; your offer might adjust based on debt type and your finances. Older credit card debts tend to be easier to settle. Propose what you can pay at once—settlement is now or never. If you’re stuck, a Licensed Insolvency Trustee can help—just choose wisely. Trustees get paid by the lenders and creditors and don’t advocate for Canadians in debt. We can help find the best and cheapest one for you. Beware! Reach out via phone, text, or live chat if you have any questions.


Image of debt settlement negotiation process for Canadians, highlighting offer strategies and financial hardship evidence.

Debt settlement negotiations: Offer 20-30% of your debt.

Debt Settlement Offer Question

How much to offer debt settlement? I want to negotiate a debt settlement but don’t know how much I should offer as a reasonable starting point.

From: Anonymous Question
Location: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan (SK)
Category: debt settlement

Debt Settlement Offer Answer

Kicking off negotiations for settling a debt in Canada? A sensible starting point is to offer between 20% to 30% of what you owe, especially if you can show proof of financial hardship. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all—your offer might shift depending on the debt type, the creditor’s rules, and how your bank account’s feeling. Credit card debt that’s over 90 days old? Those creditors might be more open to haggling.

Just make sure you propose an amount you can really pay in one go, since settlements usually mean it’s now or never. Keep in mind, not every creditor is going to be jazzed about settling, so having a game plan is key. Start low but be ready to raise the stakes while proving your financial pinch if you need to. And if the whole process feels like a maze, a Licensed Insolvency Trustee can be a helpful guide—just make sure to pick one you can really trust!

From: Insider Adam

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Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy (OSB) Answer

To determine a reasonable starting point for a debt settlement offer in Canada, consider negotiating a settlement amount that is approximately 30% to 50% of the total debt owed. This percentage can vary based on factors like the debtor’s financial situation, the creditor’s policies, and the age of the debt. It’s crucial to assess your ability to pay and to communicate effectively with the creditor to arrive at a mutually agreeable settlement.

For more specific guidelines, refer to the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act and related regulations, where terms and calculations regarding debt settlements may be discussed. However, detailed parameters for specific negotiation amounts are generally not directly stipulated in these legal sources.

From: OSB Helper

Here are the top 5 frequently asked questions related to debt settlement offers in Canada, formatted as requested:

1. What percentage of the debt should I offer for a debt settlement?
  • Consider starting with an offer of 25% to 30% of the outstanding balance[4].
2. How much can I save with a debt settlement?
  • Settlements can range from less than 20% to over 80% of the debt owed, depending on the financial situation[1][2].
3. Do I need a lump sum for a debt settlement?
  • Yes, a debt settlement typically requires a lump sum of money to offer to the creditor[1][2].
4. How do I determine a reasonable debt settlement offer?
  • Start with a low offer, such as 25% or 30%, and be prepared for the creditor to counter with a higher amount[4].
5. Will debt settlement affect my credit score?
  • Yes, debt settlement can negatively affect your credit score, making it harder to secure financing in the future[4].

If you have a question about debt see our debt questions or ask your own debt related question.

References

Title, Source
Debt Settlement Information, Canadian Government
Understanding Debt Relief, Credit Counselling Canada
Consumer Proposal vs Debt Settlement, Canadian Association of Insolvency and Restructuring Professionals
Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act (R.S.C., 1985, c. B-3), Government of Canada

Table of article references



Elimiate up to 80% of Your Debt

High cost of gas, high cost of groceries, high lending rates, low salary - being in debt is not your fault! See if you qualify for government debt programs and get out of debt today!

Write off up to 80% of your debts
Reduce debts into one affordable monthly payment
Stop all collections calls
No interest and charges (completely frozen)
Government-legislated debt relief programs