How to write a debt settlement proposal letter?

debt settlement letter, How to write a debt settlement proposal letter, Ontario

Crafting a debt settlement letter? Start with your details and account info. Explain why full payment isn’t feasible—perhaps due to job loss or medical issues. Propose a specific settlement amount and outline your payment plan. Request a written agreement and include a deadline for their response. This ensures clarity and helps speed up the resolution process. Reach out via phone, text, or live chat if you have any questions!


debt settlement letter template outlining financial situation and proposal for settlement agreement

Debt settlement letter template for financial relief.

Debt Settlement Letter Question

How to write a debt settlement proposal letter? I need to write a debt settlement proposal letter but don’t know how to structure it or what to include to make it effective.

From: Anonymous Question
Location: Markham, Ontario (ON)
Category: debt settlement

Debt Settlement Letter Answer

This could be a start:

(Your Name)
(Your Address)
(Your Phone Number)
(Account Number)
(Date)
(Creditor’s Info)

Hello there,

I’m reaching out because I can’t swing the full debt payment on account number [insert account number] due to [your reason]. I am struggling to support myself and my family and I am in danger of going bankrupt. I’m proposing to settle for $[amount] in full. In exchange, I’d like [your expectations]. Please send over a signed agreement if this works for you. I plan to take care of the payment by [insert date], and would love to hear back from you by [insert date].

Best,
[Your Signature]
[Your Name]

Less is more. Give us a shout via phone, text, or live chat if you’d like a template.

From: Insider Scott

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Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy (OSB) Answer

To write an effective debt settlement proposal letter, structure it as follows:

  1. Your Contact Information: Start with your name, address, and contact details at the top of the letter.

  2. Date: Include the date when you are writing the letter.

  3. Creditor’s Information: Add the creditor’s name, company, and address.

  4. Subject Line: Clearly state that this is a debt settlement proposal (e.g., “Debt Settlement Proposal for Account #XXXX”).

  5. Introduction: Begin with a brief introduction explaining the purpose of the letter and referencing your account details, including the amount owed.

  6. Explanation of Financial Hardship: Describe your current financial situation that has led you to propose a settlement. Be honest and succinct, mentioning any significant changes like job loss or unexpected expenses.

  7. Settlement Offer: Specify the amount you are able to pay as a settlement and why this amount is reasonable, citing any relevant financial hardship.

  8. Proposed Payment Plan: If applicable, propose a timeline for the payment, detailing how and when you will make the payment.

  9. Closure: Thank the creditor for considering your proposal and express your hope for a positive resolution.

  10. Signature: End with your name and signature.

Ensure to keep a copy of the letter for your records and send it via a method that confirms receipt. For legal correctness, refer to the provisions under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act, particularly sections related to settlement negotiations, as well as any relevant regulations (C.R.C., c. 369 and SOR/2007-256) that outline requirements for submission.

From: OSB Helper

Here are the top 5 most frequently asked questions related to writing a debt settlement proposal letter, based on common queries and trends:

1. What should I include in a debt settlement proposal letter?
  • Your current financial situation, the debt settlement offer, and your personal information including full name, address, and account numbers.
2. How do I structure a debt settlement proposal letter?
  • Begin with an introduction explaining your financial situation, follow with the proposed settlement amount, specify what you expect from the creditor, and include a request for a written agreement.
3. What is the best amount to offer in a debt settlement proposal?
  • Experts recommend starting the negotiation at 30% of the debt owed, as creditors may propose a higher number than your initial offer.
4. Why should I provide proof of my financial situation in the debt settlement proposal letter?
  • Creditors often require proof to verify the legitimacy of your financial hardship and to make an informed decision about your proposal.
5. What are the potential impacts of a debt settlement on my credit report?
  • Settling a debt for less than the full amount can result in the debt being marked as partially settled on your credit report, which may affect your ability to obtain credit in the future.

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

References

Title, Source
Writing a Debt Settlement Proposal Letter, Canadian Consumer Proposal
Understanding Debt Settlements, Government of Canada
Debt Management Strategies, Credit Counseling Canada
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