Debt Relief Options in St. John's
If you live in St. John's and can't keep up with your debts, you have the same legal options as every Canadian — a consumer proposal or bankruptcy filed through a Licensed Insolvency Trustee, a debt management plan through non-profit credit counselling, or a consolidation loan — plus protections under Newfoundland and Labrador law when collectors call.
Your options in St. John's
Consumer proposal
Pay back part of your unsecured debt over up to 5 years. Total debts up to $250,000 (excluding your home mortgage).
Bankruptcy
Release most unsecured debt; a first bankruptcy usually lasts 9 months (21 with surplus income).
Consolidation or credit counselling
Repay the full principal in one payment, ideally at a lower rate.
Talk to a trustee
Most Licensed Insolvency Trustees serving St. John's offer a free first consultation.
Newfoundland and Labrador rules that affect St. John's residents
- Collection agency regulator
- Collection agencies contacting you in St. John's must be licensed by Digital Government and Service NL, which also takes complaints about harassment or misleading collection practices.
- Governing law
- Collections Act.
- Limitation period
- Limitation periods for consumer debt in Newfoundland and Labrador differ from most provinces — confirm with Digital Government and Service NL or a legal clinic before paying an old debt.
Read the full guide to your rights with collection agencies →
Find a Licensed Insolvency Trustee near St. John's
Only a Licensed Insolvency Trustee can file a consumer proposal or bankruptcy. The federal Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy keeps the official list — search it by city to find trustees serving St. John's, and check any firm's licence before you sign.
Office of the Superintendent of BankruptcyResearch your creditors
See how Canadian banks, card issuers and collection agencies handle settlements.
Free negotiation letter
Create a written settlement offer to send to a creditor or collector.