Unfortunately you live outside of the area we’re licensed to operate in, but there are other ways to get help with managing your debt.
Credit counsellors can help by providing the tools and resources for you to create a realistic budget, manage your bills, and teach you how to use credit sensibly without being over reliant on borrowing.
They also offer a Debt Management Plan that allows you to pay off your debts over 24 to 48 months.
Credit counselling agencies can charge fees, depending on which of their services you use.
The most important thing is to do your research, make sure you trust the agency you choose, and ensure that any fees you may have to pay fit comfortably within your budget.
You can find out more about debt solutions in your area, from consumer proposals to bankruptcy, on the Government of website. Alternatively, for further information about how credit counselling could help you, visit the Canadian Association of Credit Counselling Services.
You can speak to your existing mortgage holder to see if they will renew your mortgage at a higher amount to allow you to pay off your debts.
You could also speak to a new mortgage holder to see if they will refinance your mortgage to allow you to pay off your debts.
Be aware that there could be costs or penalties to get out of your existing mortgage. You also need to be aware of the difference in interest rates between your existing mortgage and a new one.
Just like a mortgage, a secured line of credit is secured against you house. It provides more flexibility than a mortgage.
If you qualify, you could consider getting a secured line of credit to pay off your unsecured debts. The interest rate on a secured line of credit is typically higher than a mortgage, but lower than the interest on your unsecured debts.
If you’re having money trouble but you don’t own your own home, there are still debt relief options available to you.
The Government of Canada website is a useful resource for information on money management, and can help you decide on your next step.
