Can I Get a Loan While in a Consumer Proposal?

If you’re currently in a consumer proposal in BC, you might be wondering whether you can still get a loan. The short answer is yes, it’s possible to get a loan while in a consumer proposal, but it can be challenging. Let’s first talk about what a consumer proposal is and how it can affect your ability to get a loan, and then we’ll talk about what your options are.

What is a consumer proposal?

A consumer proposal is a government-regulated debt solution in BC that allows you to make an offer to your creditors to pay back a portion of what you owe over a set period, typically five years. The consumer proposal is facilitated by a licensed insolvency trustee (LIT) and is designed to help you avoid bankruptcy. In a consumer proposal, you can negotiate with your creditors to reduce your debt and extend your payment period, making it more manageable for you to pay off your debts.

How does a consumer proposal affect my ability to get a loan?

Being in a consumer proposal can negatively impact your credit score, which can make it difficult to get a loan. When you file a consumer proposal, it stays on your credit report for three years after you complete the proposal. During that time, you will have an R7 rating on your credit report and lenders may see you as a higher risk, making it less likely to approve your loan application. Once you have completed your proposal you can start rebuilding your credit score, and it’s important to note that your credit score is not the only factor that lenders consider when evaluating your loan application. Lenders will also look at your current financial situation, your income, and your debt-to-income ratio, among other things.

What are my options for getting a loan while in a consumer proposal?

1. Get a co-signer. If you have someone with good credit who is willing to co-sign your loan, it could increase your chances of getting approved. A co-signer is someone who agrees to pay back the loan if you can’t.
   
2. Consider a secured loan. A secured loan is a loan that is backed by collateral, such as a car or a house. If you default on the loan, the lender can take possession of the collateral. Because there is less risk for the lender, you may have a better chance of getting approved for a secured loan.
   
3. Look for a lender that specializes in loans for people with bad credit. Some lenders specialize in lending to people with bad credit. These lenders may be more willing to approve your loan application even if you’re in a consumer proposal.
   
4. Wait until you complete your consumer proposal. Once you complete your consumer proposal, you can start rebuilding your credit. Over time, your credit score will improve, making it easier for you to get approved for loans.

What to expect when you apply for a loan during your consumer proposal

While the application approval process will vary by lender, yours might be particularly strict due to your consumer proposal.

1. You will need to disclose your consumer proposal. When applying for a loan, you will need to disclose your consumer proposal to the lender. This means that the lender will be aware that you are currently in a debt repayment plan.
   
2. You may have a higher interest rate. Since you will be considered a higher risk borrower due to your consumer proposal, the lender may charge you a higher interest rate on the loan.
   
3. You may need a co-signer. If the lender is not comfortable with the level of risk you present, they may require you to have a co-signer for the loan. This person will be responsible for repaying the loan if you are unable to.
   
4. You may have a lower loan amount. The lender may only be willing to offer you a lower loan amount than what you applied for, since they may not be comfortable lending you a large sum of money while you are still in a debt repayment plan.
   
5. You may need to shop around. Not all lenders will be willing to lend to someone in a consumer proposal, so you may need to shop around to find a lender that is willing to work with you.

How to prepare for the loan application process

It’s crucial to prepare thoroughly before submitting your loan application, especially considering how your consumer proposal may negatively affect your creditworthiness. You may need to double up on your efforts to improve your chances of approval.

1. Determine the loan amount you need and ensure it is affordable in the long term.
2. Request a loan quote from your potential lender, including the interest rate and administrative fees.
3. Incorporate the loan expenses into your budget while considering other daily expenses.
4. Ensure that you have enough income and savings to make loan payments even in the event of financial emergencies such as job loss.
5. Make consistent and responsible consumer proposal payments beforehand.
6. Also, pay off any debts that didn’t qualify for the proposal.
7. Take steps to improve your credit rating.
8. Organize and update all the financial information your lender requires.
9. If necessary, offer assets such as your home or car as collateral.
10. Consider finding a cosigner with a good credit score, income, and net worth.

What to watch out for when you’re searching for the right loan for your financial situation

You need to be extra cautious when trying to find a lender to approve a loan during your consumer proposal. While you may be able to get approval because these lenders often cater to clients with similar debt-related issues, there are some things that you need to watch out for.

1. High interest rates. Be aware of loans with high interest rates, as they can end up costing you more in the long run. Look for loans with reasonable rates and terms that you can comfortably afford.
   
2. Hidden fees. Some lenders may hide fees in the fine print, so make sure to read all the terms and conditions carefully before signing any agreements. Be wary of upfront fees, such as application or processing fees.
   
3. Prepayment penalties. Make sure to ask if there are any prepayment penalties before taking out a loan. These penalties can cost you extra if you want to pay off the loan early.
   
4. Fraudulent lenders. Unfortunately, there are lenders out there who take advantage of people who need to borrow money. Always do your research and choose a reputable lender who is licensed and has good reviews.
   
5. Loan terms. Make sure to understand the loan terms before agreeing to anything. Be aware of the repayment period, interest rates, and any other conditions that may affect your ability to pay back the loan on time.

Getting a loan while in a consumer proposal can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. By exploring your options and working with a licensed insolvency trustee, you can find a solution that works for you. Remember to only take on debt that you can afford to repay and be sure to make your loan payments on time to avoid further damaging your credit score and future financial hardship.