The Impact of Filing Personal Bankruptcy

Personal bankruptcy filing is a big decision with broad ramifications. Although it can help with a variety of debts, including tax debt, it’s crucial to be aware of the consequences. It may be difficult to obtain loans or credit in the future if you have filed for bankruptcy, which can lower your credit score and remain on your credit report for several years. Furthermore, some assets might be marketed to pay creditors.

Does Filing Personal Bankruptcy Eliminate Tax Debt in Canada?

Yes, tax debt, including income tax and GST/HST bills, can be discharged in personal bankruptcy in Canada. However, there are particular requirements that must be met, such as:

1. There must be a minimum of $1,000 in tax debt.

2. The tax debt must date back more than a year.

3. You need to have submitted all necessary tax returns.

All tax-related responsibilities, such as any fines for tax evasion or government-owed student loan debts, are not completely eliminated by filing for bankruptcy.

What Else Can I Do If I Owe the CRA Money?

There are a number of options besides bankruptcy if you owe money to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA):

Agree on a Payment Plan: 

The CRA frequently agrees to collaborate with individuals to establish an affordable payment schedule that will enable you to pay off your tax burden gradually.

Submit an application for a Taxpayer Relief Program: 

If you can show financial hardship, you may be qualified for the CRA’s Taxpayer Relief Program, which can exempt you from fines and interest charges.

Take into account submitting a Consumer Proposal: 

A Consumer Proposal is a written contract between you and your creditors, which includes the CRA. It enables you to safeguard your assets while negotiating lower tax debt payments. For people with tax debt, a consumer proposal may be a good alternative to bankruptcy.

Your CRA Debt Options

Understanding your alternatives is essential when dealing with tax obligation owed to the CRA.

Full Payment: 

If you have the financial resources, paying out your tax bill in full is the simplest alternative.

Payment Arrangements: 

The CRA can let you set up a payment plan that will let you pay off your debt gradually.

Taxpayer Relief Program: 

If you’re in need of assistance because of your financial situation, you might think about filing for relief through this program to lessen or get rid of fines and interest.

Consumer Proposal: 

As previously indicated, a Consumer Proposal can be a useful tool for negotiating lower tax debt payments while avoiding the long-term effects of bankruptcy.

Filing a Consumer Proposal to Eliminate Tax Debt in Canada

In Canada, tax debt may be eliminated by submitting a consumer proposal. A reasonable offer to repay a portion of your debt, frequently at a lower total amount, can be made to your creditors, including the CRA, through this formal legal process. Your tax liability will be regarded as paid after your proposal is approved and the agreed-upon payments are made.

Conclusion

In Canada, there are several methods for reducing tax debt, each with its own set of issues and implications. Although filing for bankruptcy can erase tax debt, it’s important to look at other options like negotiation, payment plans, and consumer proposals. You can decide the best course of action to handle your unique tax debt problem while minimizing the impact on your financial future by speaking with a Licensed Insolvency Trustee or financial advisor.

Call us at 1 (866) 931-5280 to schedule a FREE, private meeting if you are drowning in debt. We will thoroughly go over your financial condition and go over all of your choices with you. As an alternative, you can contact our staff by completing the form below.