How Does Bankruptcy Affect My Spouse? Everything You Need to Know

Key Takeaways:

✅ Filing for bankruptcy in Canada does not automatically affect your spouse, but joint debts and shared assets could be impacted.

✅ Your spouse’s credit score will remain intact unless they are a co-signer or joint account holder on any debts.

✅ Joint debts remain your spouse’s responsibility, even if you file for bankruptcy.

✅ Speaking with a Licensed Insolvency Trustee (LIT) can help you understand your best options.

Introduction

Filing for bankruptcy in Canada can be a difficult decision, and if you’re married, you might wonder, “How does bankruptcy affect my spouse?” The good news is that bankruptcy is an individual process, meaning your spouse does not automatically become involved. However, there are exceptions—especially if you share debts or own assets together.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about how bankruptcy in Canada affects your spouse, their credit, and your shared financial future.

What Happens When You File for Bankruptcy in Canada?

Bankruptcy in Canada is a legal process that helps individuals struggling with debt get a fresh start. It is administered by a Licensed Insolvency Trustee (LIT) and governed by the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act (BIA).

When you file for bankruptcy:

Surrender certain assets to the LIT (with exemptions depending on the province).
Stop collection calls, wage garnishments, and lawsuits from creditors.
Work with a Licensed Insolvency Trustee to complete the process.

The key question is: How does this impact your spouse? Let’s explore different aspects of bankruptcy and how they may or may not affect them.

Does Bankruptcy in Canada Affect My Spouse’s Credit?

In Canada, your bankruptcy does not automatically appear on your spouse’s credit report unless:

They are a co-signer, joint borrower, or guarantor on any of your debts.
They are legally responsible for any debts in both names.

If your spouse is not linked to your debts, their credit rating will not be affected. However, if they co-signed a loan or have a shared credit card, they remain fully responsible for repaying those debts.

What Happens to Joint Debts in Bankruptcy?

If you and your spouse share debts, bankruptcy only removes your legal responsibility for them. However, your spouse will still be required to pay back their portion.

Examples of Joint Debt Situations:

Debt Type	Effect of Bankruptcy on Spouse
Joint Credit Cards	Your spouse must continue payments.
Co-signed Loan	Your spouse remains responsible for full repayment.
Mortgage	If both names are on the loan, your spouse is still liable.
Car Loan	If your spouse co-signed, they must continue payments.

💡 If your spouse cannot afford to cover joint debts alone, they may also need financial assistance, such as a consumer proposal or bankruptcy.

Will My Spouse Lose Their Assets in My Bankruptcy?

In Canada, marital status does not automatically make your spouse’s assets part of your bankruptcy estate. This depends on how assets are owned and provincial laws.

How Assets Are Treated in Bankruptcy:

Individually Owned Assets: If your spouse owns property in their name alone, it is unaffected.
Jointly Owned Assets: Shared assets (like a home or car) may be affected depending on their value and equity.
Gifts or Transfers Before Bankruptcy: If you transferred assets to your spouse before filing, the trustee may investigate to determine if it was done to avoid creditors.

💡 It’s important to speak with a Licensed Insolvency Trustee to understand how your assets might be affected.

Will Bankruptcy Affect My Spouse’s Income?

Your spouse’s income is not included in your bankruptcy, but it may be considered when determining your surplus income payments, which determine how much you need to pay in your bankruptcy.

If your household income exceeds a certain threshold, you may have to make additional payments during bankruptcy.
Your spouse is not obligated to contribute but may need to provide income details for calculation purposes.

Are There Alternatives to Bankruptcy That Protect My Spouse?

If you’re worried about how bankruptcy may affect your spouse, there are other debt-relief options to consider:

1. Consumer Proposal

Allows you to settle your debts for less while keeping assets.
Less impact on your credit score than bankruptcy.
Does not involve your spouse unless debts are joint.

2. Debt Consolidation

Combines debts into one lower monthly payment.
May protect your spouse from financial consequences.

3. Debt Management Plan

A negotiated repayment plan through a credit counselling agency.
Helps avoid bankruptcy while reducing financial strain.

Conclusion

Filing for bankruptcy in Canada does not automatically impact your spouse, but joint debts, shared assets, and provincial laws can create financial challenges. The best way to protect your spouse and your financial future is to consult a Licensed Insolvency Trustee before making any decisions. At Litvack Group, we offer Free Consultations to review your financial situation and help determine the best option to pay off your debts.

FAQs About Bankruptcy and Spouses in Canada

1. Can my spouse be forced to file for bankruptcy with me?

No. Bankruptcy is an individual process. Your spouse does not have to file unless they also need debt relief.

2. Will my spouse’s wages be garnished because of my bankruptcy?

No. Your creditors cannot garnish your spouse’s wages unless they owe money separately.

3. Can I file bankruptcy to remove my spouse’s name from joint debts?

No. Bankruptcy only removes your responsibility, not your spouse’s, for joint debts.

4. Will my spouse’s home be affected if I file for bankruptcy?

If the home is in your spouse’s name alone, it is protected. However, if you have equity in a jointly owned home, it could be impacted.

5. Can I protect my spouse from bankruptcy consequences?

Yes. Careful financial planning and exploring alternatives like a consumer proposal can help reduce the impact.