What Information Should I Bring To An Initial Meeting With The Trustee

What to Bring to Your First Initial Consultation with the Trustee's Office

Your first consultation with our office is completely free, and it's a great opportunity to explore your options. To make the most of this meeting, it helps to bring as much accurate information as you can. We understand that you're just getting started, and we’re here to help guide you through the process.

To have the most productive conversation, try to bring details these three key areas: 

1. Your Debts

Please bring a list of all your debts, including: 

• Secured debts like mortgages or car loans
• Unsecured debts like credit cards or lines of credit

Even if you're unsure of the exact amounts or whether certain debts (such as student loans) might be affected by a bankruptcy or proposal, include them anyway. The more complete the list, the better we can help.

2. Your Assets

Different provinces have different rules about which assets are protected from creditors. To help us understand your situation, please bring a list of what you own and an estimate of each item’s value. You don’t need to list every piece of furniture, but do include things like:

• Real estate (your home, a cottage, etc.)
• Vehicles
• RRSPs or other investments

3. Your Income and Expenses

At a minimum, we’ll need to know:

• Your monthly take-home income
• The number of people in your household

If you’re self-employed or don’t have a regular income, bring an estimate of what you expect to earn going forward. A rough income and expense summary for your business can also be helpful. Be sure to mention any special expenses, such as:

• Work-related costs
• Child support or alimony
• Fines or penalties
• Unreimbursed medical expenses