Léane is a young single mother. She stopped studying after her child was born and a few years later his child was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
A child with an autism spectrum disorder needs regular medical monitoring. “My son has a lot of appointments with different workers and specialists. I do not receive any help from his father or my relatives and I accompany him to his appointments so that he can receive the care he needs,” explains Léane.
Although her son went to school, the young mother was unable to return to work. Since she has not yet completed her studies and her child's health requires support and careful attendance, she is currently unable to look for work. It also happens that she urgently needs to pick up her son from school in a crisis.
Debt of $30,000 and monthly income of $2,000
Since she can only rely on government grants and aid, Léane's income is very low at around $2,000 per month. However, over time, she had to go into debt to support herself, but also for her son's medical treatment, some of which is not covered by Quebec's health insurance.
She also fell behind on her bills and was never able to repay her $14,000 in student loans. In total, including loans, credit cards and accounts owed, she owes $30,000. To find solutions, she finally decided to consult a licensed insolvency practitioner.
Bankruptcy is the best option
Raymond Chabot's financial restructuring advisor, Nell Boisvert, met with Léane and analyzed her file. She quickly realized that the single mother was having great difficulty making ends meet and was unable to repay her debts. “She was under enormous financial stress and was unable to improve her income level due to the fact that she was unable to return to the labor market in the short term,” she points out. The only asset in his possession is a 2001 Toyota Echo worth $750.
Therefore, action was needed before her physical and mental health deteriorated and she lost access to services due to late payments.
“In Léane’s case, bankruptcy was the best solution. This is the fastest and most cost-effective option given the low income and the fact that there are no valuable assets,” says Nell Boisvert.
Get help
In nine months, the young woman will be free of her debts, including her student loans, as she meets the requirements to be able to include it in bankruptcy. She can also keep her car. However, his credit score will be damaged for six years with Equifax and seven years with TransUnion.
“Life can be difficult and sometimes situations are beyond our control. So don't hesitate to ask for help when you need it. There are community organizations that help low-income families, be it for household help, parental support or food assistance,” emphasizes Nell Boisvert, who adds that in the event of significant financial difficulties, it is necessary to act before creditors and consult a trustee Carry out procedures.
HIS FINANCIAL SITUATION
financial assets
· Toyota Echo 2001, valued at $750
Debts
· Student loan: $14,000
· Credit cards: $6000
· Personal Loans: $6000
· Late invoices: $4,000
Total debt: $30,000
Monthly income
· State benefits: $2200
Monthly expenses
· 2010$ (including rent, electricity, telephone, food, insurance, daycare, gas, uncovered treatments, etc.)
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