HELPING YOU SOLVE YOUR DEBT PUZZLE
Preparing for your First Consultation
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Getting Ready to Take Control of Your Financial Future
Taking the first step towards addressing your debt is a significant and empowering decision. At C.E. Craig & Associates Inc., we want to ensure that your initial consultation is as informative and stress-free as possible. We offer free in-person consultations as well as phone interviews or virtual meetings. Our experienced team is here to guide you through every step of the process.
What to Expect During Your First Consultation
Your first consultation is an opportunity to discuss your financial situation in a confidential, non-judgmental environment. During this meeting, we will review your debts, income, assets, and expenses to get a clear picture of your overall financial health. Our goal is to help you understand your options and provide you with a tailored plan to address your debt.
How to Prepare for Your Consultation
TTo make the most of your first consultation, it’s helpful to gather some important information and documents ahead of time. Being prepared will allow us to provide you with the best possible advice and solutions.
Monthly Expenses
It’s important to have a clear picture of your monthly expenses, including:.
- Housing costs (e.g., rent/mortgage, property taxes, utilities)
- Transportation (e.g., car payments, insurance, fuel, public transit)
- Groceries and household items
- Insurance premiums (e.g., health, life, home, auto)
- Childcare and education expenses
- Other recurring expenses (e.g., memberships, subscriptions, entertainment)
This information helps us assess your cash flow and identify areas where you might reduce spending to free up funds for debt repayment.
List of Debts
Prepare a comprehensive list of your debts, including:
- Credit card balances
- Personal loans
- Lines of credit
- Mortgage and car loan details
- Unpaid bills (e.g., utilities, taxes, medical expenses)
- Student loans
Include the amount owed, the name of the creditor, and if you are currently in default with any of your creditors. This will help us assess your overall debt load and determine the most appropriate solution. For Student Loans, it is helpful to know when you formally ceased your studies.
Income Information
Have an understanding about how much you earn in an “average month” To assist you way want to review:
- Recent pay stubs or other year to date earnings
- Details of any additional income sources (e.g., rental income, pensions, alimony)
- Information about your spouse’s or partner’s income (if applicable)
Understanding your income is the first step for evaluating your ability to meet debt payments and considering options like debt consolidation or a consumer proposal.
List of Assets
Prepare a list of your assets, such as:
- Real estate properties (including your home)
- Vehicles
- Investments (e.g., RRSPs, TFSAs, stocks, bonds)
- Savings accounts
- Personal possessions of significant value (e.g., jewelry, antiques)
Knowing your assets helps us understand what you own and how it may factor into your debt relief strategy.
Questions to Consider
To get the most out of your consultation, it’s helpful to think about your financial goals and any specific concerns you have. Consider asking yourself:
- What are my primary financial concerns?
- Am I struggling with specific types of debt?
- What do I hope to achieve by seeking debt help?
- Are there any particular assets I want to protect?
- Am I considering bankruptcy, or do I want to explore alternatives first?
- Are you under any immediate constraints such as garnishment orders or pending court actions?
These questions will help focus our discussion and ensure that we address your most pressing needs.
Why Choose C.E. Craig & Associates Inc.?
At C.E. Craig & Associates Inc., we understand that every financial situation is different. Our team of experienced professionals in Victoria, Langford, Nanaimo, and Surrey BC is committed to helping you find the best solution to your debt challenges.
We offer:
- Personalized Service: We take the time to understand your financial situation and develop a tailored debt consolidation plan.
- Expert Guidance: Our Licensed Insolvency Trustees provide clear, professional advice on the best options available to you.
- Confidential and Compassionate Support: We know how stressful debt can be, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Book Your Free Consultation Today
Taking the first step is often the hardest part, but you don’t have to do it alone. Contact C.E. Craig & Associates Inc. today to schedule your free, confidential consultation at one of our offices in Victoria, Langford, Nanaimo, or Surrey BC. Let us help you take control of your financial future and start your journey towards a debt-free life.
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Speak to a Licensed Insolvency Trustee Today
If you’re struggling with unmanageable debt, don’t wait. Take the first step towards financial freedom by speaking with one of our Licensed Insolvency Trustees today. At C.E. Craig & Associates Inc., we’re here to help you get the debt relief you need with compassion, professionalism, and expertise.
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Debt Resources & Information
Read the latest guides, insights, and resources prepared by our team to help you have peace of mind with your consumer proposal.
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- Financial Literacy
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- Personal Bankruptcy
How Do Insolvency Trustees Get Paid in Canada?
By Colleen Craig, CPA, CA, FCIRP • March 25, 2026If you’re considering a bankruptcy or consumer proposal, one of the most common and important questions is: How do Licensed Insolvency Trustees get paid? Many people worry about hidden fees -
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Student Loans in British Columbia: Repayment Relief, Consumer Proposals, and Bankruptcy Options
By Colleen Craig, CPA, CA, FCIRP • January 29, 2026Student loan debt is one of the most common financial pressures we see in our British Columbia insolvency practice, particularly when combined with credit cards, lines of credit, or tax -
- Consumer Proposal
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- Financial Literacy
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13 Strategies for Living Debt Free on One Income in 2025
By Colleen Craig, CPA, CA, FCIRP • July 16, 2025In today’s economic climate with rising interest rates, inflation pressures, and unpredictable expenses. Living debt-free may feel like an impossible dream. But with discipline, planning, and a few smart habits,
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Reach out to a debt solutions manager today
There can be many solutions to debt problems and every person’s story is unique. At C.E. Craig & Associates Inc. we take the time to listen to you – to help find the best option for you. Every journey begins with one single step.