Get help when you cannot pay bills
I cannot pay my bills
Make a realistic picture of your income, essential spending and unpaid bills, then contact the companies or lenders you owe. They may offer repayment options, but changes must be agreed and can increase total interest.
Where to begin
- List each debt, balance, interest rate and minimum payment. Compare your monthly income with expenses to see what you can afford.
- Contact your creditors or financial institution promptly to explain the problem and ask about available arrangements.
- Compare the proposed payments, fees and total interest before agreeing. A longer repayment period can lower payments but cost more overall.
- Use FCAC’s guidance for a manageable repayment plan and consider all options before taking on further debt.
Before you open the official service
- A private list of income, expenses, creditors and payment dates.
- Any payment proposals and their fees or interest terms.
Keep your actual documents and account details off this website. Use the official service’s current checklist before applying.
What to check for your situation
This is general guidance, not a debt settlement or insolvency recommendation. A creditor is not required to grant a requested arrangement.
Fees, processing times and document rules can change. This page helps you navigate; it does not confirm eligibility or replace the government’s instructions.
Official sources
canada.ca · Official websiteFCAC — Paying back your debtList debts, balances, interest rates and minimum payments. Compare income and expenses to determine a realistic repayment budget. Contact creditors to discuss the situation. They may offer lower interest, a longer repayment term or consolidation. A longer term can increase total interest. Keep the repayment schedule affordable; consider past-due debts and understand the consequences of missed payments.Checked
Prepared by Active K Digital from the linked public guidance. Read our source approach.