Consumer Proposal Qualifications – Who Is Eligible

Who Qualifies for a Consumer Proposal

A consumer proposal in Ontario has simple rules, and most people qualify. If you owe more than you can manage and want protection from creditors, this page shows who is eligible and how to get started.

Consumer Proposal Qualifications – Who Is Eligible

A consumer proposal in Ontario is a simple, government-approved way to reduce what you owe and protect your income. To use this solution, you must meet a few basic rules. The good news is that most people who reach this page qualify.

Here’s what you need to know in clear, easy steps.

Who Can File a Consumer Proposal

To qualify for a consumer proposal in Ontario, you must meet several simple conditions.

  • must be unable to pay your debts as they become due, and
  • you must owe less than the legal debt limit.
  • you also need to live in Canada or have property here.

If you meet these points, you can likely file a proposal and get protection right away.

Debt Requirements

A consumer proposal is available to people who owe too much to pay back on their own but not so much that bankruptcy is the only option. To qualify, you must:

  • owe more than you can realistically repay
  • owe less than $250,000 (not including a mortgage on your primary home)
  • owe this amount as an individual or together with a spouse for a joint proposal

If you owe more than $250,000, other options exist, and the trustee will explain them in simple language.

Income & Ability to Pay

You do not need a high income to qualify. You simply need enough steady income to make one monthly payment. The trustee helps you set a payment that fits your budget. As long as you can afford a fair amount each month, you will likely qualify for a proposal.

Creditors You Can Include

Most unsecured debts can be included in a consumer proposal. This often includes:

  • credit cards
  • lines of credit
  • income tax
  • student loans (with rules)
  • bank loans
  • payday loans

You do not need perfect records. Our trustees will work with you to help gather the details.

All unsecured debts, credit cards and unsecured loans can be applied to a consumer proposal, getting you completely debt free in 5 years or less!

Who Cannot File a Consumer Proposal

Consumer Proposals Ontario -How to Get out of Debt with an Ontario Consumer ProposalThere are only a few situations where someone may not qualify. You cannot file if:

  • you owe more than the $250,000 limit (excluding mortgage)
  • you have already filed a consumer proposal that is still active
  • you cannot afford even a small monthly payment

If any of these apply, the trustee will recommend another solution that still protects you.

Who Cannot File a Consumer Proposal

There are only a few situations where someone may not qualify. You cannot file if:

  • you owe more than the $250,000 limit (excluding mortgage)
  • you have already filed a consumer proposal that is still active
  • you cannot afford even a small monthly payment

If any of these apply, the trustee will recommend another solution that still protects you.

★★★★★ As interest rates rose so did our mortgage and bills.  We were slowly sinking more and more into debt.  When it hit 30,000 we had to do something. YanchDey were local so I gave them a call.  Best thing I did in years.  Our debt was slashed down to 7k with a monthly payment of $120/month! Thank You YanchDey. Mike Paczek, Pickering

Joint Consumer Proposals

Couples who share debts can file a joint proposal if their financial situations are connected. This often lowers the total monthly payment and makes the process easier. If you and your spouse have mostly joint debts or both want relief, a joint proposal may be a great option.

Why Most People Qualify

Many people believe they won’t qualify because their debt feels “too big” or their income feels “too small.”

In reality, consumer proposals were designed for everyday people who need help. As long as you meet the basic rules for residency, debt level, and the ability to make a reasonable payment, you qualify.

★★★★★ When I lost my job we had to use our credit cards. On the advice of a friend I called YanchDey. They got me on a Consumer Proposal, we saved over 22 thousand dollars, we’re very grateful. The plan we did will make us completely debt free in 4 years. Rocco Scipanos

Consumer Proposal Calculator


Worth Doing a Consumer Proposal

This consumer proposal calculator shows an approximate of how much you could save.

Let’s Get Started Today!

Insolvency Trustee Kelly Dey for Consumer Proposals

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by debt and not sure where to start, the best thing you can do is talk to someone who understands.

Call now and speak directly with me — Kelly Dey — for clear, honest advice that’s tailored to your situation. There’s no pressure and no judgment. We’ll look at your options together and create a plan that helps you breathe again. Getting started is easier than you think, and one simple conversation can put you back in control of your money and your life.

Let’s take that first step today, call 905-721-7506.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I qualify for a consumer proposal if I am currently being garnished?

A. Yes. Wage garnishments do not stop you from qualifying.

The proposal stops the garnishment as soon as it is filed, and you remain eligible even if the garnishment has already started.

Q. Can I qualify if I have already filed a bankruptcy before?

A. Yes. A previous bankruptcy does not prevent you from filing a consumer proposal. Many people use a proposal after bankruptcy because it offers more flexibility and lets them keep all their assets.

Q. Can I file a consumer proposal if some of my debts are in collections?

A. Yes. Collections do not affect your eligibility. Once the proposal is filed, all collection activity must stop, including calls, letters, and legal action.

Association of Insolvency & Restructuring Professionals

Licensed Insolvency Trustee - Kelly Dey for Consumer Proposals

Insolvency Trustee – Kelly Dey

If you’re feeling weighed down by money or debt issues, give me a call at 905-721-7506 and lets just have conversation.

Consumer Proposals in Ontario & Better Business Bureau


Consumer Proposal Reviews

Pauline Vorvis

3 days ago

★★★★★ We had 23,000 in credit card debt that I was never going to pay off. My new loan is now $7,000 and pay $195 over three years. Thank you so much.

Randy Singh

7 days ago

★★★★★ My husband’s paycheck was garnisheed, we owed 36,000. The consumer proposal, stopped the garnishment, and reduced our debt to 10,000. So thankful we called.

Debbie Theriault

2 weeks ago

★★★★★ I needed to get out of debt. I still had student-loans after 10 years and was sick of borrowing money.  I thought I’d have to file for bankruptcy, but they explained how they could get me out of debt and save thousands. My life has changed, I can sleep and have control of my finances. With the consumer proposal I’m debt free, I even appreciated the debt counselling. No consumer credit and struggling with debt for me. God bless!

Christien Egistone

4 weeks ago

★★★★★ Thank you, I will have me out of debt in 3 years and save 15k, I’ll never have credit card debt like that again, I appreciate your help and will refer and recommend you to friends.

Danny Demers

1 month ago

★★★★★ I was very pleased the way they handled my creditors. I ended up paying a fraction of what I owed on my debt.


Ontario Consumer Proposals | How a Consumer Proposal Provides Debt Relief

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