{"id":295,"date":"2022-07-08T12:46:46","date_gmt":"2022-07-08T12:46:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/?p=295"},"modified":"2026-09-16T10:53:49","modified_gmt":"2026-09-16T10:53:49","slug":"some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/","title":{"rendered":"Some Important Tips To Get Relief From A Gambling Debt"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_88 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-white ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"cursor:pointer\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#What_Is_Gambling_Debt\" >What Is Gambling Debt?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Step_1_Stop_New_Gambling_Losses_Before_Attacking_the_Debt\" >Step 1: Stop New Gambling Losses Before Attacking the Debt<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Dont_Try_to_Win_the_Money_Back\" >Don&#8217;t Try to Win the Money Back<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Use_Self-Exclusion_Tools_Where_Appropriate\" >Use Self-Exclusion Tools Where Appropriate<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-5' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-5'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Ontario\" >Ontario<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-5'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#British_Columbia\" >British Columbia<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Step_2_Calculate_the_Full_Gambling_Debt\" >Step 2: Calculate the Full Gambling Debt<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Step_3_Separate_Essential_Spending_From_Gambling_Debt_Repayment\" >Step 3: Separate Essential Spending From Gambling Debt Repayment<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Example\" >Example<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Dont_Create_an_Impossible_Repayment_Plan\" >Don&#8217;t Create an Impossible Repayment Plan<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Step_4_Protect_Household_Money_From_New_Gambling\" >Step 4: Protect Household Money From New Gambling<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Step_5_Choose_a_Gambling_Debt_Repayment_Strategy\" >Step 5: Choose a Gambling Debt Repayment Strategy<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Highest-interest-first_method\" >Highest-interest-first method<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Smallest-balance-first_method\" >Smallest-balance-first method<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Step_6_Contact_Creditors_Before_You_Fall_Further_Behind\" >Step 6: Contact Creditors Before You Fall Further Behind<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#What_If_the_Debt_Is_Already_in_Collections\" >What If the Debt Is Already in Collections?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Should_You_Use_a_New_Loan_to_Pay_Off_Gambling_Debt\" >Should You Use a New Loan to Pay Off Gambling Debt?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Avoid_Payday_Loans_to_Chase_or_Repay_Gambling_Losses\" >Avoid Payday Loans to Chase or Repay Gambling Losses<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Step_7_Consider_Credit_Counselling\" >Step 7: Consider Credit Counselling<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Check_the_agency_before_committing\" >Check the agency before committing<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#What_Is_a_Debt_Management_Plan\" >What Is a Debt Management Plan?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Be_Careful_With_Debt_Settlement_Promises\" >Be Careful With Debt Settlement Promises<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Step_8_Consider_a_Consumer_Proposal_When_Debt_Is_More_Serious\" >Step 8: Consider a Consumer Proposal When Debt Is More Serious<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#A_consumer_proposal_isnt_something_a_debt_company_can_file_for_you\" >A consumer proposal isn&#8217;t something a debt company can file for you<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Does_a_Consumer_Proposal_Include_Gambling_Debt\" >Does a Consumer Proposal Include Gambling Debt?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Step_9_Understand_Bankruptcy_Carefully\" >Step 9: Understand Bankruptcy Carefully<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Gambling_Can_Affect_a_Bankruptcy_Discharge_in_Canada\" >Gambling Can Affect a Bankruptcy Discharge in Canada<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Consumer_Proposal_vs_Bankruptcy_vs_Debt_Management_Plan\" >Consumer Proposal vs Bankruptcy vs Debt Management Plan<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Step_10_Get_Gambling_Support_at_the_Same_Time_as_Debt_Help\" >Step 10: Get Gambling Support at the Same Time as Debt Help<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Gambling_Support_Resources_in_Canada\" >Gambling Support Resources in Canada<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Ontario-2\" >Ontario<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#British_Columbia-2\" >British Columbia<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Alberta\" >Alberta<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Manitoba\" >Manitoba<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Quebec\" >Quebec<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Other_provinces_and_territories\" >Other provinces and territories<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-37\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#If_Gambling_Debt_Is_Creating_a_Crisis\" >If Gambling Debt Is Creating a Crisis<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-38\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Step_11_Build_Financial_Barriers_Against_Relapse\" >Step 11: Build Financial Barriers Against Relapse<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-39\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Remove_gambling_apps_and_accounts\" >Remove gambling apps and accounts<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-40\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Use_self-exclusion\" >Use self-exclusion<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-41\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Remove_saved_cards\" >Remove saved cards<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-42\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Separate_essential_bill_money\" >Separate essential bill money<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-43\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Reduce_unnecessary_access_to_credit\" >Reduce unnecessary access to credit<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-44\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Build_a_small_emergency_fund\" >Build a small emergency fund<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-45\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Schedule_regular_financial_reviews\" >Schedule regular financial reviews<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-46\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Step_12_Rebuild_an_Emergency_Fund_Slowly\" >Step 12: Rebuild an Emergency Fund Slowly<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-47\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Step_13_Track_Total_Debt_Not_Just_Payments\" >Step 13: Track Total Debt, Not Just Payments<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-48\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Should_You_Sell_Assets_to_Pay_Gambling_Debt\" >Should You Sell Assets to Pay Gambling Debt?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-49\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Do_Not_Prefer_Family_Members_Without_Professional_Advice\" >Do Not Prefer Family Members Without Professional Advice<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-50\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#What_Does_Recovery_From_Gambling_Debt_Look_Like\" >What Does Recovery From Gambling Debt Look Like?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-51\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#A_30-Day_Gambling_Debt_Recovery_Plan\" >A 30-Day Gambling Debt Recovery Plan<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-52\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Days_1%E2%80%932\" >Days 1\u20132<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-53\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Days_3%E2%80%935\" >Days 3\u20135<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-54\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Days_6%E2%80%937\" >Days 6\u20137<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-55\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Week_2\" >Week 2<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-56\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Week_3\" >Week 3<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-57\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Week_4\" >Week 4<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-58\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Common_Gambling_Debt_Mistakes_to_Avoid\" >Common Gambling Debt Mistakes to Avoid<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-59\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Chasing_losses\" >Chasing losses<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-60\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Taking_another_high-cost_loan_to_gamble\" >Taking another high-cost loan to gamble<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-61\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Hiding_the_full_debt\" >Hiding the full debt<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-62\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Paying_only_whoever_is_calling_most_aggressively\" >Paying only whoever is calling most aggressively<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-63\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Emptying_every_savings_account_without_a_plan\" >Emptying every savings account without a plan<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-64\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Selling_important_assets_immediately\" >Selling important assets immediately<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-65\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Ignoring_gambling_support\" >Ignoring gambling support<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-66\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Assuming_bankruptcy_is_an_automatic_reset\" >Assuming bankruptcy is an automatic reset<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-67\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Paying_a_debt-relief_company_before_understanding_the_service\" >Paying a debt-relief company before understanding the service<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-68\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#The_Bottom_Line_on_Gambling_Debt\" >The Bottom Line on Gambling Debt<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-69\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Gambling Debt<\/strong> can become difficult to manage because two problems may be happening at the same time: existing debt is charging interest while new gambling losses continue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That means a successful recovery plan usually needs two tracks:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Stop new gambling-related losses<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Build a realistic plan for the debt that already exists<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Trying to repay debt while continuing to chase losses can undo even a careful budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The first goal is therefore not finding a new loan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is stopping the debt from becoming larger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">CashWaves provides educational financial information rather than gambling treatment or personalized debt advice. If recurring debt is already affecting your budget, its <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/responsible-lending.html\">Responsible Lending guidance<\/a> explains why adding more short-term borrowing may not solve an ongoing financial problem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_Gambling_Debt\"><\/span>What Is Gambling Debt?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cGambling debt\u201d is a practical description rather than a single legal debt category.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The money may actually be owed through:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>credit cards<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>cash advances<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>lines of credit<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>personal loans<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>payday loans<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>overdrafts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>unpaid household bills<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>money borrowed from relatives or friends<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, someone might lose $5,000 gambling but technically owe:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Credit card: $2,500<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Line of credit: $1,500<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Personal loan: $700<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Friend: $300<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Total:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>$5,000<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The repayment rules are attached to those individual debts, not simply to the label \u201cgambling debt.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That distinction matters when comparing repayment, counselling, consolidation or insolvency options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_1_Stop_New_Gambling_Losses_Before_Attacking_the_Debt\"><\/span>Step 1: Stop New Gambling Losses Before Attacking the Debt<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A debt repayment plan cannot work if the balance is being replaced by new gambling losses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Suppose you pay:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>$400 toward debt this month<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">but gamble:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>$600 using credit<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your financial position has worsened by:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>$200<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">before interest and fees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The first priority is therefore to separate gambling access from available money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Possible steps include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>closing or restricting gambling accounts where appropriate<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>deleting gambling apps<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>removing saved payment methods from gambling websites<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>stopping gambling-related credit-card and cash-advance use<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>avoiding gambling venues<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>using available self-exclusion programs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>getting gambling-specific support<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These steps aren&#8217;t a substitute for treatment when gambling feels difficult to control, but they can reduce immediate access while you seek help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Dont_Try_to_Win_the_Money_Back\"><\/span>Don&#8217;t Try to Win the Money Back<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the most financially dangerous responses to a gambling loss is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cOne more win will get me back to even.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That creates a second risk on top of the original loss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Suppose you owe:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>$8,000<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and gamble another:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>$2,000<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">trying to recover it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The debt may now be:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>$10,000<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The probability of a future gambling result does not change the contractual obligation on the existing credit-card or loan balance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Gambling should not be treated as a debt-repayment strategy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Use_Self-Exclusion_Tools_Where_Appropriate\"><\/span>Use Self-Exclusion Tools Where Appropriate<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Several Canadian gambling systems offer tools that allow people to voluntarily restrict access.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ontario\"><\/span>Ontario<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">OLG offers <strong>My PlayBreak<\/strong>, a voluntary self-exclusion program for certain OLG gambling environments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ontario also now has <strong>BetGuard<\/strong>, which allows centralized self-exclusion from regulated digital gambling sites in the province.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">See the official <a href=\"https:\/\/www.olg.ca\/en\/my-play-break.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OLG My PlayBreak information<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"British_Columbia\"><\/span>British Columbia<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www2.gov.bc.ca\/gov\/content\/sports-culture\/gambling-fundraising\/gambling-support-bc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Gambling Support BC<\/a> provides free support services and information, and B.C. gambling systems also provide voluntary self-exclusion options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Other provinces may operate different programs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Always use the official provincial gambling or health authority rather than assuming Ontario or B.C. procedures apply across Canada.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_2_Calculate_the_Full_Gambling_Debt\"><\/span>Step 2: Calculate the Full Gambling Debt<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not rely on a rough number.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Collect:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>credit-card statements<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>loan statements<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>line-of-credit statements<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>payday-loan agreements<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>overdraft balances<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>collection notices<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>unpaid bills<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>written personal debts<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For each debt, record:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><th>Debt<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">Balance<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">Interest Rate<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">Minimum Payment<\/th><th>Status<\/th><\/tr><tr><td>Credit Card A<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">$4,200<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">20.99%<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">$130<\/td><td>Current<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Line of Credit<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">$3,000<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">11%<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">$90<\/td><td>Current<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Personal Loan<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">$2,100<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">18%<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">$150<\/td><td>Current<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Family Loan<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">$800<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">0%<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">Flexible<\/td><td>Owing<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Total<\/strong><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\"><strong>$10,100<\/strong><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\"><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\"><\/td><td><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This example is hypothetical.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The purpose is to turn:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI owe too much\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">into:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cI owe $10,100 across four debts.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is something you can plan around.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.canada.ca\/en\/financial-consumer-agency\/services\/debt\/paying-debt.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Financial Consumer Agency of Canada&#8217;s debt repayment guidance<\/a> recommends identifying debts, balances, interest rates and minimum payments before building a repayment strategy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_3_Separate_Essential_Spending_From_Gambling_Debt_Repayment\"><\/span>Step 3: Separate Essential Spending From Gambling Debt Repayment<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Debt repayment matters, but you still need to cover essential living costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Start with reliable take-home income.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then list essential expenses such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>housing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>food<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>utilities<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>transportation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>necessary insurance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>medication and healthcare expenses<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>required child or family expenses<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then add required debt payments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Example\"><\/span>Example<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Monthly income:<\/strong> $4,200<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Essential expenses:<\/strong> $3,000<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Required debt payments:<\/strong> $750<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Remaining:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>$4,200 \u2212 $3,000 \u2212 $750 = $450<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That $450 provides the starting point for additional debt repayment and necessary irregular expenses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the result is negative, the situation needs more than an aggressive repayment target.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">CashWaves&#8217; guide to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/how-to-make-a-budget-tailored-to-the-canadian-lifestyle\/\">making a budget tailored to the Canadian lifestyle<\/a> can help organize income and expenses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Dont_Create_an_Impossible_Repayment_Plan\"><\/span>Don&#8217;t Create an Impossible Repayment Plan<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A repayment plan must leave enough money for basic living costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If monthly available cash is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>$300<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">setting an extra debt-payment goal of:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>$800<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">is not a real plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It may simply lead to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>missed household bills<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>more credit-card use<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>another loan<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>new gambling pressure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>abandoning the plan entirely<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A slower sustainable repayment plan can be more useful than an aggressive plan that fails after one month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_4_Protect_Household_Money_From_New_Gambling\"><\/span>Step 4: Protect Household Money From New Gambling<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Where practical, make essential obligations automatic or separate them from discretionary money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, payday could be divided into:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Housing and utilities<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Groceries and transportation<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Debt payments<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Emergency savings<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Discretionary money<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This reduces the amount sitting in one account that appears available for gambling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some people also choose to involve a trusted partner or family member in financial accountability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That should be voluntary and appropriate to the relationship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The goal is to create friction between the impulse to gamble and access to money needed for essentials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_5_Choose_a_Gambling_Debt_Repayment_Strategy\"><\/span>Step 5: Choose a Gambling Debt Repayment Strategy<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the minimum payments are manageable, you may be able to repay the debt yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Two common approaches are available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Highest-interest-first_method\"><\/span>Highest-interest-first method<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Make all required minimum payments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then put extra money toward the debt with the highest interest rate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Example:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><th>Debt<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">Balance<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">Interest<\/th><\/tr><tr><td>Credit Card<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">$5,000<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">22%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Personal Loan<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">$3,000<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">14%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Line of Credit<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">$4,000<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">9%<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Under a highest-interest strategy, extra repayment goes to the 22% credit card first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This method can reduce total interest costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Smallest-balance-first_method\"><\/span>Smallest-balance-first method<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Make required payments on all debts, then direct extra money to the smallest balance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some people find the quicker visible wins easier to maintain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The trade-off is that you may pay more total interest if the smallest debt is not the most expensive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">FCAC discusses both approaches in its <a href=\"https:\/\/www.canada.ca\/en\/financial-consumer-agency\/services\/debt\/paying-debt.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">paying-back-debt guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_6_Contact_Creditors_Before_You_Fall_Further_Behind\"><\/span>Step 6: Contact Creditors Before You Fall Further Behind<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you think you&#8217;ll miss a payment, contact the creditor early.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Possible arrangements vary, but a creditor may be willing to discuss:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>changing a due date<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>temporary payment arrangements<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>restructuring a payment schedule<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>other hardship options<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nothing is guaranteed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ask clearly:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>What will the new payment be?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Does interest continue?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Are fees being added?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Does the arrangement affect credit reporting?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How long does the arrangement last?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What happens if one payment is missed?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep written copies of any arrangement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ignoring overdue debt generally gives you fewer options, not more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_If_the_Debt_Is_Already_in_Collections\"><\/span>What If the Debt Is Already in Collections?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">First confirm:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>who owns the debt<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the amount claimed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>where the debt originally came from<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Collection rules differ depending on whether you&#8217;re dealing with a federally regulated financial institution or a collection agency regulated under provincial or territorial law.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Government of Canada explains federal collection protections in its <a href=\"https:\/\/www.canada.ca\/en\/financial-consumer-agency\/services\/rights-responsibilities\/rights-credit-loans\/debt-collection.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">debt collection rights guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not send money merely because someone calling you claims to own a debt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Verify the account first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Should_You_Use_a_New_Loan_to_Pay_Off_Gambling_Debt\"><\/span>Should You Use a New Loan to Pay Off Gambling Debt?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Be cautious.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A new loan can change the structure of your debt, but it does not erase it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Suppose you owe:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>$15,000 across four accounts<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and obtain:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>$15,000 consolidation loan<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You still owe approximately:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>$15,000<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The potential benefit comes only if the new arrangement provides advantages such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>lower interest<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>manageable payments<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>simpler administration<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Debt consolidation may be useful in some cases, but FCAC warns that a longer repayment period can increase total interest costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It also warns that if the behaviour responsible for the original debt continues, new debt may accumulate again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Read the Government of Canada&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.canada.ca\/en\/financial-consumer-agency\/services\/debt\/debt-consolidation.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">debt consolidation guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Avoid_Payday_Loans_to_Chase_or_Repay_Gambling_Losses\"><\/span>Avoid Payday Loans to Chase or Repay Gambling Losses<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Payday loans are short-term, high-cost borrowing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Using one to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>continue gambling<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>recover a previous gambling loss<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>make a payment on gambling-related debt<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">may add a new expensive obligation to an already difficult situation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">CashWaves states in its <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/responsible-lending.html\">Responsible Lending policy<\/a> that short-term loans are intended for temporary financial needs rather than ongoing debt problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If gambling debt is already recurring, another high-cost loan is unlikely to address the underlying issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_7_Consider_Credit_Counselling\"><\/span>Step 7: Consider Credit Counselling<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If managing several debts is becoming difficult, a credit counsellor may help you review your options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.canada.ca\/en\/financial-consumer-agency\/services\/debt\/debt-help.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Financial Consumer Agency of Canada credit counselling guide<\/a> says agencies may offer:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>one-on-one counselling<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>budgeting assistance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>financial education<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>debt management plans<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Simply speaking with a credit counsellor does not itself affect your credit score.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Check_the_agency_before_committing\"><\/span>Check the agency before committing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">FCAC recommends asking:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Is the first consultation free?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What services are offered?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What fees are charged?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What qualifications does the counsellor have?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Will I receive a written proposal?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What happens if my financial situation changes?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Both for-profit and not-for-profit organizations may provide counselling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not assume \u201cnon-profit\u201d automatically means every service is free.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_a_Debt_Management_Plan\"><\/span>What Is a Debt Management Plan?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A debt management plan, or DMP, is generally a voluntary arrangement involving some or all participating creditors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Depending on the arrangement, the credit counsellor may collect one monthly payment and distribute funds to participating creditors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Potential benefits may include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>simpler monthly payments<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>possible interest relief<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>structured repayment<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>not every creditor must participate<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>not every debt qualifies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>fees may apply<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>your credit report may be affected<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ask for the full terms before agreeing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Be_Careful_With_Debt_Settlement_Promises\"><\/span>Be Careful With Debt Settlement Promises<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Financial distress can make promises such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cWe can eliminate 70% of your debt.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">sound attractive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">FCAC warns that debt-settlement and credit-repair companies cannot guarantee that creditors will accept a settlement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You might still pay fees even if a creditor refuses the proposed deal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Also, accurate negative information generally cannot simply be erased from a credit report because a company charges you a fee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Review the Government of Canada&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.canada.ca\/en\/financial-consumer-agency\/services\/debt\/debt-help\/alert-debt-credit-repair.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">debt and credit-repair consumer alert<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_8_Consider_a_Consumer_Proposal_When_Debt_Is_More_Serious\"><\/span>Step 8: Consider a Consumer Proposal When Debt Is More Serious<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When ordinary repayment or credit counselling isn&#8217;t enough, a formal insolvency option may be worth discussing with a <strong>Licensed Insolvency Trustee<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A consumer proposal is a legally binding process under Canada&#8217;s Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/ised-isde.canada.ca\/site\/office-superintendent-bankruptcy\/en\/you-owe-money\/you-owe-money-consumer-proposals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy<\/a> explains that a proposal may involve offering creditors:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>a percentage of what is owed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>more time to pay<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>or both<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A proposal cannot run longer than five years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For the federal consumer-proposal process, the individual&#8217;s qualifying debts must generally not exceed <strong>$250,000<\/strong>, excluding a mortgage secured by the principal residence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"A_consumer_proposal_isnt_something_a_debt_company_can_file_for_you\"><\/span>A consumer proposal isn&#8217;t something a debt company can file for you<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Only a <strong>Licensed Insolvency Trustee<\/strong> is authorized to administer a consumer proposal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If a company says it will \u201crefer your debt to a trustee\u201d after collecting large upfront fees, check carefully what you&#8217;re actually paying for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can find federally regulated trustees through the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_a_Consumer_Proposal_Include_Gambling_Debt\"><\/span>Does a Consumer Proposal Include Gambling Debt?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There isn&#8217;t a simple category called \u201cgambling debt\u201d that automatically receives one treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What matters is the underlying obligation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, the debt may actually be:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>credit-card debt<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>a personal loan<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>a line of credit<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>another unsecured obligation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A Licensed Insolvency Trustee can determine how your specific debts would be treated and whether a consumer proposal is appropriate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not assume from an online article that every gambling-related obligation will automatically be included.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_9_Understand_Bankruptcy_Carefully\"><\/span>Step 9: Understand Bankruptcy Carefully<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bankruptcy is another formal process under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It can provide relief from many debts, subject to legal exceptions and the debtor fulfilling required duties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But gambling-related bankruptcy has an important additional issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Gambling_Can_Affect_a_Bankruptcy_Discharge_in_Canada\"><\/span>Gambling Can Affect a Bankruptcy Discharge in Canada<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Canada&#8217;s <strong>Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act, section 173<\/strong> specifically lists a situation where a person:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>brought on or contributed to the bankruptcy by gambling<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">among the facts relevant to bankruptcy discharge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Depending on the circumstances, a court may:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>refuse discharge<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>suspend discharge<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>impose conditions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This does <strong>not<\/strong> mean a person with gambling-related debt can never file bankruptcy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It means the relationship between gambling and the insolvency can materially affect the process and outcome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy has published cases where gambling contributed to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>opposition to discharge<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>additional payment requirements<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>counselling requirements<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>suspended discharge<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>other conditions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If bankruptcy is being considered, discuss the gambling history openly with a Licensed Insolvency Trustee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hiding gambling losses, assets, borrowing or transactions can create additional problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Consumer_Proposal_vs_Bankruptcy_vs_Debt_Management_Plan\"><\/span>Consumer Proposal vs Bankruptcy vs Debt Management Plan<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A simplified comparison:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><th>Option<\/th><th>Basic Structure<\/th><th>Formal Legal Process?<\/th><th>Who Administers It?<\/th><\/tr><tr><td>Debt Management Plan<\/td><td>Repay participating debts over time<\/td><td>No<\/td><td>Credit counselling agency<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Consumer Proposal<\/td><td>Offer creditors partial repayment, longer repayment, or both<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>Licensed Insolvency Trustee<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Bankruptcy<\/td><td>Formal insolvency process involving assets, income and legal duties<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>Licensed Insolvency Trustee<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The appropriate solution depends on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>total debt<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>income<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>assets<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>secured debts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>ability to make payments<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>creditor participation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>gambling history<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>other personal circumstances<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/ised-isde.canada.ca\/site\/office-superintendent-bankruptcy\/en\/compare-debt-solutions\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">debt-solutions comparison<\/a> to understand the differences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_10_Get_Gambling_Support_at_the_Same_Time_as_Debt_Help\"><\/span>Step 10: Get Gambling Support at the Same Time as Debt Help<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Financial recovery can be difficult if the gambling behaviour remains untreated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Debt counselling and gambling counselling solve different parts of the problem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A debt professional may help you with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>budgeting<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>creditors<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>repayment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>insolvency options<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A gambling-support professional may help with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>gambling urges<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>behavioural patterns<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>triggers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>relapse prevention<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>self-exclusion<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>family impact<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Using both types of support can be more complete than relying on either one alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Gambling_Support_Resources_in_Canada\"><\/span>Gambling Support Resources in Canada<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Gambling support is mainly organized provincially.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The following are examples rather than a complete Canada-wide directory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ontario-2\"><\/span>Ontario<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ontario.ca\/page\/find-mental-health-support\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ontario mental health and gambling support<\/a> directs people experiencing gambling-related problems to <strong>ConnexOntario<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">ConnexOntario provides free and confidential information and referral support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Phone:<\/strong> 1-866-531-2600<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ontario residents may also review OLG&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.olg.ca\/en\/my-play-break.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">My PlayBreak<\/a> self-exclusion program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"British_Columbia-2\"><\/span>British Columbia<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www2.gov.bc.ca\/gov\/content\/sports-culture\/gambling-fundraising\/gambling-support-bc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Gambling Support BC<\/a> provides free gambling-related information, counselling and referrals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>24\/7 Gambling Support Line:<\/strong> 1-888-795-6111<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Alberta\"><\/span>Alberta<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Alberta Health Services provides addiction and mental-health support for concerns including problem gambling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Addiction Helpline:<\/strong> 1-866-332-2322<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Alberta residents can also call <strong>811<\/strong> for addiction and mental-health support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Manitoba\"><\/span>Manitoba<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Manitoba government lists a 24-hour Problem Gambling Helpline.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Phone:<\/strong> 1-800-463-1554<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Quebec\"><\/span>Quebec<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Quebec provides <strong>Gambling: Help and Referral<\/strong>, a free, confidential and anonymous service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Elsewhere in Quebec:<\/strong> 1-800-461-0140<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Montreal area:<\/strong> 514-527-0140<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Other_provinces_and_territories\"><\/span>Other provinces and territories<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check your provincial:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>health ministry<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>addiction services<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>gambling regulator<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>government gaming corporation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">for current public gambling-support and self-exclusion resources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"If_Gambling_Debt_Is_Creating_a_Crisis\"><\/span>If Gambling Debt Is Creating a Crisis<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Financial debt can sometimes feel overwhelming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, call or text <strong>9-8-8<\/strong> anywhere in Canada.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The federal <a href=\"https:\/\/www.canada.ca\/en\/public-health\/services\/suicide-prevention.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline<\/a> is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If someone is in immediate danger, call <strong>9-1-1<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_11_Build_Financial_Barriers_Against_Relapse\"><\/span>Step 11: Build Financial Barriers Against Relapse<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After gambling stops, protect the repayment plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Possible steps include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Remove_gambling_apps_and_accounts\"><\/span>Remove gambling apps and accounts<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Reduce easy access.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Use_self-exclusion\"><\/span>Use self-exclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Where your province or gambling provider offers it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Remove_saved_cards\"><\/span>Remove saved cards<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Don&#8217;t leave credit-card or bank details stored in gambling accounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Separate_essential_bill_money\"><\/span>Separate essential bill money<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep housing, utilities and other essential payments protected from discretionary spending.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Reduce_unnecessary_access_to_credit\"><\/span>Reduce unnecessary access to credit<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Consider whether high credit limits or easy cash advances create unnecessary risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before changing or closing credit products, consider the effect on your broader finances and required payments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Build_a_small_emergency_fund\"><\/span>Build a small emergency fund<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even a modest emergency fund can reduce the temptation to borrow when an unexpected expense appears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Schedule_regular_financial_reviews\"><\/span>Schedule regular financial reviews<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, once a week review:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>account balances<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>debt balances<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>upcoming payments<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>discretionary spending<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Recovery is easier when financial problems are noticed early.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_12_Rebuild_an_Emergency_Fund_Slowly\"><\/span>Step 12: Rebuild an Emergency Fund Slowly<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Debt repayment is important, but having absolutely no emergency cash can create another borrowing cycle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Suppose you have:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>$400 extra per month<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One possible strategy might be:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>$350 toward debt<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>$50 toward emergency savings<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After six months:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>$50 \u00d7 6 = $300 emergency savings<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The right split depends on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>debt interest<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>overdue accounts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>income stability<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>essential expenses<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>existing savings<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is no universal percentage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The goal is to avoid needing a new high-cost loan for the next ordinary emergency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_13_Track_Total_Debt_Not_Just_Payments\"><\/span>Step 13: Track Total Debt, Not Just Payments<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Making monthly payments can create the feeling of progress even if new borrowing keeps balances high.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Track total debt every month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Example:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><th>Month<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">Total Debt<\/th><\/tr><tr><td>January<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">$18,000<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>February<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">$17,450<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>March<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">$16,850<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>April<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">$16,150<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This clearly shows progress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the balances look like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><th>Month<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">Total Debt<\/th><\/tr><tr><td>January<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">$18,000<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>February<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">$18,300<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>March<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">$18,750<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>April<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-right\" data-align=\"right\">$19,200<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">the plan needs to change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Should_You_Sell_Assets_to_Pay_Gambling_Debt\"><\/span>Should You Sell Assets to Pay Gambling Debt?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sometimes selling an unnecessary asset can reduce expensive debt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But don&#8217;t automatically sell everything you own.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before selling an asset, consider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Is it essential for work?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Is it required for housing or family needs?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What is its actual resale value?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Is the debt secured against it?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Could selling it create a larger future expense?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Are you considering an insolvency filing where asset treatment should first be discussed with an LIT?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If bankruptcy or a consumer proposal may be necessary, speak with a Licensed Insolvency Trustee <strong>before making major asset transfers or repayments to selected creditors<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Insolvency law contains rules relating to property and creditor payments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_Not_Prefer_Family_Members_Without_Professional_Advice\"><\/span>Do Not Prefer Family Members Without Professional Advice<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Someone may naturally want to repay:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>parents<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">or<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>friends<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">before a bank or credit-card company.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But if insolvency is a realistic possibility, making large payments to selected creditors can raise legal issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Talk with an LIT before moving significant money or assets when you&#8217;re already insolvent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Does_Recovery_From_Gambling_Debt_Look_Like\"><\/span>What Does Recovery From Gambling Debt Look Like?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Debt recovery is not only reaching a zero balance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Useful signs of progress include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>gambling activity has stopped or is being actively managed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>no new gambling-related borrowing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>essential bills are current<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>total debt is falling<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>credit use is controlled<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>a repayment strategy is being followed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>emergency savings are beginning to grow<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>gambling-support resources are being used where needed<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The debt may take months or years to repay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That does not mean the recovery plan isn&#8217;t working.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"A_30-Day_Gambling_Debt_Recovery_Plan\"><\/span>A 30-Day Gambling Debt Recovery Plan<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Days_1%E2%80%932\"><\/span>Days 1\u20132<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>stop gambling transactions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>delete gambling apps<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>investigate self-exclusion<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>tell a trusted support person if appropriate<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>contact a gambling-support service<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Days_3%E2%80%935\"><\/span>Days 3\u20135<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">List:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>every creditor<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>every balance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>interest rates<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>minimum payments<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>overdue accounts<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Calculate total debt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Days_6%E2%80%937\"><\/span>Days 6\u20137<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Create a basic budget covering:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>income<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>housing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>food<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>utilities<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>transport<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>essential expenses<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>minimum debt payments<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Week_2\"><\/span>Week 2<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Contact creditors where payments are difficult.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ask about available arrangements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Week_3\"><\/span>Week 3<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Choose:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>highest-interest repayment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>smallest-balance repayment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>credit counselling assessment<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">depending on your financial situation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Week_4\"><\/span>Week 4<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If repayment still appears impossible, compare:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>debt management plan<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>consumer proposal<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>bankruptcy<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">using legitimate Canadian resources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If formal insolvency may be appropriate, arrange a consultation with a Licensed Insolvency Trustee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Common_Gambling_Debt_Mistakes_to_Avoid\"><\/span>Common Gambling Debt Mistakes to Avoid<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chasing_losses\"><\/span>Chasing losses<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A future gambling win is not a repayment plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Taking_another_high-cost_loan_to_gamble\"><\/span>Taking another high-cost loan to gamble<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This converts gambling losses into additional borrowing costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Hiding_the_full_debt\"><\/span>Hiding the full debt<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A plan based on incomplete numbers won&#8217;t work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Paying_only_whoever_is_calling_most_aggressively\"><\/span>Paying only whoever is calling most aggressively<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Prioritize based on legal obligations, essential needs and a structured repayment plan rather than panic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Emptying_every_savings_account_without_a_plan\"><\/span>Emptying every savings account without a plan<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You may leave yourself unable to handle essential emergencies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Selling_important_assets_immediately\"><\/span>Selling important assets immediately<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understand the consequences first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ignoring_gambling_support\"><\/span>Ignoring gambling support<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Financial restructuring doesn&#8217;t necessarily address the behaviour that created the losses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Assuming_bankruptcy_is_an_automatic_reset\"><\/span>Assuming bankruptcy is an automatic reset<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Gambling that caused or contributed to bankruptcy can affect discharge under Canadian insolvency law.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Paying_a_debt-relief_company_before_understanding_the_service\"><\/span>Paying a debt-relief company before understanding the service<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check whether you&#8217;re speaking with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>a credit counsellor<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>a debt-settlement company<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>a Licensed Insolvency Trustee<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They do different things.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Bottom_Line_on_Gambling_Debt\"><\/span>The Bottom Line on Gambling Debt<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Getting relief from <strong>Gambling Debt<\/strong> requires more than finding enough money for the next payment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A sustainable plan usually means:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>stop new gambling losses<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>use gambling-support or self-exclusion resources where needed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>calculate every debt<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>protect essential household spending<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>choose a structured repayment strategy<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>contact creditors before problems grow<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>get reputable credit counselling when useful<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>speak with a Licensed Insolvency Trustee when the debt is no longer realistically repayable<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>understand that gambling may affect a bankruptcy discharge<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>build financial barriers against relapse<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is no single debt solution that is right for every Canadian.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The right option depends on the amount owed, income, assets, creditors and whether gambling is still creating new financial losses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For broader money-management information, see CashWaves&#8217; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/financial-tips.html\">Financial Tips for Canadians<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq uagb-faq__outer-wrap uagb-block-37e7b535 uagb-faq-icon-row-reverse uagb-faq-layout-accordion uagb-faq-expand-first-true uagb-faq-inactive-other-true uagb-faq__wrap uagb-buttons-layout-wrap uagb-faq-equal-height     \" data-faqtoggle=\"true\" role=\"tablist\"><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.cashwaves.ca\\\/blog\\\/some-important-tips-to-get-relief-from-a-gambling-debt\\\/\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What is gambling debt?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Gambling debt is money owed because gambling losses were funded directly or indirectly through credit or borrowing.<br><br>It may actually consist of credit-card debt, cash advances, loans, lines of credit, overdrafts, unpaid bills or personal debts.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What is the first thing I should do about gambling debt?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Stop adding new gambling losses. Repaying old debt while continuing to borrow or gamble can prevent balances from falling. Then list every debt, balance, interest rate and minimum payment.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Should I gamble to win back the money I lost?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"No reliable debt plan should depend on future gambling winnings. Trying to chase losses can make the existing financial problem larger.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Should I take out a loan to pay gambling debt?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"A lower-cost consolidation loan may be appropriate in some circumstances, but a new loan does not remove the debt. Compare total borrowing cost and make sure gambling losses have stopped before consolidating. Avoid using new high-cost credit to continue gambling or chase losses.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Can credit counselling help with gambling debt?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"A reputable credit counsellor may help with budgeting, debt review and debt management plans.<br><br>Gambling-specific counselling may still be useful separately because credit counselling addresses the debt rather than the gambling behaviour itself.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What is a debt management plan?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"A debt management plan is generally a voluntary repayment arrangement involving participating creditors. A credit counselling agency may collect one payment and distribute it to creditors. Terms, creditor participation and fees vary.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Can gambling debt be included in a consumer proposal?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The answer depends on the actual underlying debts and your circumstances. A Licensed Insolvency Trustee can review whether credit cards, loans or other gambling-related obligations would be dealt with through a consumer proposal.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Can gambling debt be included in bankruptcy?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Bankruptcy may deal with many debts, subject to legal exceptions. However, Canada's Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act specifically identifies gambling that brought on or contributed to bankruptcy as a factor that may affect discharge.<br><br>Get advice from a Licensed Insolvency Trustee rather than assuming bankruptcy will automatically eliminate gambling-related debt.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Can gambling cause a bankruptcy discharge to be denied?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"<strong>Potentially.<\\\/strong><br><br>Section 173 of the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act lists gambling that brought on or contributed to the bankruptcy among facts that may result in discharge being refused, suspended or granted conditionally. The outcome depends on the circumstances.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How do I find a Licensed Insolvency Trustee?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Use the official Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy resources to locate a federally regulated LIT. Do not assume every company advertising \\u201cdebt relief\\u201d is a trustee.\"}}]}<\/script><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-c09cd37b \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-question\">What is gambling debt?<\/span><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>Gambling debt is money owed because gambling losses were funded directly or indirectly through credit or borrowing.<br><br>It may actually consist of credit-card debt, cash advances, loans, lines of credit, overdrafts, unpaid bills or personal debts.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-0dabded2 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-question\">What is the first thing I should do about gambling debt?<\/span><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>Stop adding new gambling losses. Repaying old debt while continuing to borrow or gamble can prevent balances from falling. Then list every debt, balance, interest rate and minimum payment.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-d8942cf7 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-question\">Should I gamble to win back the money I lost?<\/span><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>No reliable debt plan should depend on future gambling winnings. Trying to chase losses can make the existing financial problem larger.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-af3d1355 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-question\">Should I take out a loan to pay gambling debt?<\/span><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>A lower-cost consolidation loan may be appropriate in some circumstances, but a new loan does not remove the debt. Compare total borrowing cost and make sure gambling losses have stopped before consolidating. Avoid using new high-cost credit to continue gambling or chase losses.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-8328361a \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-question\">Can credit counselling help with gambling debt?<\/span><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>A reputable credit counsellor may help with budgeting, debt review and debt management plans.<br><br>Gambling-specific counselling may still be useful separately because credit counselling addresses the debt rather than the gambling behaviour itself.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-cc084d5c \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-question\">What is a debt management plan?<\/span><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>A debt management plan is generally a voluntary repayment arrangement involving participating creditors. A credit counselling agency may collect one payment and distribute it to creditors. Terms, creditor participation and fees vary.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-59c52148 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-question\">Can gambling debt be included in a consumer proposal?<\/span><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>The answer depends on the actual underlying debts and your circumstances. A Licensed Insolvency Trustee can review whether credit cards, loans or other gambling-related obligations would be dealt with through a consumer proposal.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-82c7654c \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-question\">Can gambling debt be included in bankruptcy?<\/span><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>Bankruptcy may deal with many debts, subject to legal exceptions. However, Canada&#8217;s Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act specifically identifies gambling that brought on or contributed to bankruptcy as a factor that may affect discharge.<br><br>Get advice from a Licensed Insolvency Trustee rather than assuming bankruptcy will automatically eliminate gambling-related debt.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-df820ba1 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-question\">Can gambling cause a bankruptcy discharge to be denied?<\/span><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p><strong>Potentially.<\/strong><br><br>Section 173 of the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act lists gambling that brought on or contributed to the bankruptcy among facts that may result in discharge being refused, suspended or granted conditionally. The outcome depends on the circumstances.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-845ca664 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-question\">How do I find a Licensed Insolvency Trustee?<\/span><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>Use the official Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy resources to locate a federally regulated LIT. Do not assume every company advertising \u201cdebt relief\u201d is a trustee.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Gambling Debt can become difficult to manage because two problems may be happening at the same time: existing debt is charging interest while new gambling losses continue. That means a successful recovery plan usually needs two tracks: Stop new gambling-related losses and Build a realistic plan for the debt that already exists Trying to repay [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":355,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_uag_custom_page_level_css":"","footnotes":"","_yoast_wpseo_title":"How To Get Relief From A Gambling Debt","_yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Some tips to get relief from gambling debt. like: Stop Gambling, find other ways to pay off your debts and Be patient With positive mind.","_yoast_wpseo_focuskw":"Relief From a Gambling Debt","rank_math_title":"Gambling Debt in Canada: How to Get Relief and Rebuild","rank_math_description":"Gambling debt can feel overwhelming. how to stop new losses, organize debts, repay strategically and explore legitimate Canadian debt-relief options.","rank_math_focus_keyword":"Gambling Debt","_dpc-meta-title":"","_dpc-meta-description":"","_dpc-keyword":""},"categories":[31],"tags":[63,62],"class_list":["post-295","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-financial-tips","tag-mental-health-gambling-refund","tag-relief-from-gambling-debt"],"uagb_featured_image_src":{"full":["https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Relief-From-a-Gambling-Debt.webp",1920,1080,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Relief-From-a-Gambling-Debt-150x150.webp",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Relief-From-a-Gambling-Debt-300x169.webp",300,169,true],"medium_large":["https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Relief-From-a-Gambling-Debt-768x432.webp",640,360,true],"large":["https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Relief-From-a-Gambling-Debt-1024x576.webp",640,360,true],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Relief-From-a-Gambling-Debt-1536x864.webp",1536,864,true],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Relief-From-a-Gambling-Debt.webp",1920,1080,false],"post-thumbnail":["https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Relief-From-a-Gambling-Debt-768x432.webp",768,432,true],"color-blog-full-width":["https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Relief-From-a-Gambling-Debt-1160x653.webp",1160,653,true],"color-blog-post":["https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Relief-From-a-Gambling-Debt-600x400.webp",600,400,true],"color-blog-post-auto":["https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Relief-From-a-Gambling-Debt-600x338.webp",600,338,true],"color-blog-slider-post":["https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Relief-From-a-Gambling-Debt-1200x700.webp",1200,700,true]},"uagb_author_info":{"display_name":false,"author_link":"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/author\/admin\/"},"uagb_comment_info":0,"uagb_excerpt":"Gambling Debt can become difficult to manage because two problems may be happening at the same time: existing debt is charging interest while new gambling losses continue. That means a successful recovery plan usually needs two tracks: Stop new gambling-related losses and Build a realistic plan for the debt that already exists Trying to repay&hellip;","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/295","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=295"}],"version-history":[{"count":11,"href":"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/295\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":512,"href":"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/295\/revisions\/512"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/355"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=295"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=295"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cashwaves.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=295"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}