Debt Consolidation Loans for Bad Credit in Canada

At Clover Mortgage, we understand that managing multiple debts with a low credit score can feel overwhelming. Our debt consolidation loans are designed specifically for Canadians facing credit challenges. We believe everyone deserves a fresh financial start, regardless of their credit history."

Rates from 3.99%

What is Debt Consolidation?

Debt consolidation is the process of combining multiple debts into a single loan with one monthly payment. Instead of juggling various bills with different due dates, interest rates, and creditors, you make a single monthly payment to one lender.

For Canadians struggling with bad credit, debt consolidation can be a powerful tool to:

  • Simplify your finances with one payment instead of multiple bills
  • Potentially secure a lower interest rate than what you're currently paying
  • Improve cash flow with more manageable repayment terms
  • Reduce stress by having predictable payments
  • Create a clear path to becoming debt-free
  • Potentially improve your credit score over time through consistent payments

When you consolidate your debts, you're essentially using a new loan to pay off your debt from various sources, which might include credit cards, store cards, payday loans, and other high-interest debts.

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Debt Consolidation Options for Bad Credit in Canada

Even with bad credit, Canadians have several options for consolidating debt:

Mortgage-Based Solutions

If you own a home with equity, mortgage-based debt consolidation can offer the lowest interest rates, even with credit challenges:

  • Debt consolidation mortgage: Refinancing your existing mortgage to include your other debts
  • Home equity loans: Borrowing against your home's equity without changing your primary mortgage
  • Second mortgages: Adding another mortgage to your property specifically for debt consolidation
  • Third mortgages: Though less common, these can be an option for those with substantial equity

Personal Loans for Debt Consolidation

If you don't own a home or prefer not to use your home as collateral:

  • Unsecured personal loans: These loans don't require collateral but typically have higher interest rates for those with bad credit
  • Secured loans: Using an asset (like a vehicle) as collateral can help you qualify with poor credit
  • Guarantor loans: Having someone with better credit co-sign your loan

Private Lenders for Debt Consolidation

When banks say no, private lenders can provide solutions:

  • Focus more on your equity and less on your credit score
  • Offer more flexible qualification requirements
  • Provide fast debt consolidation loans when you need quick relief
  • Consider your overall financial situation beyond just your credit report

Understanding Mortgage-Based Debt Consolidation

Consolidating Debt into Mortgage

For homeowners, consolidating debt into mortgage is often the most affordable option, even with credit challenges. Here's how it works:

  1. You refinance your existing mortgage for a higher amount than you currently owe
  2. The extra funds are used to pay off your high-interest debts
  3. You now have a single monthly payment, typically at a much lower interest rate

Example: If you owe $300,000 on your mortgage and have $50,000 in high-interest debt, you might refinance for $350,000, using the extra $50,000 to clear your other debts.

Benefits of Homeowner Consolidation Loans

Benefit Description
Lower Interest Rates Mortgage rates are typically much lower than credit card or personal loan rates, even for those with credit challenges
Single Payment Simplify your finances with one payment instead of many
Longer Amortization Spread payments over a longer period for lower monthly obligations
Potential Tax Benefits In some cases, interest on mortgage debt may have tax advantages (consult with a tax professional)
Improved Cash Flow Lower monthly payments free up money for other expenses or savings

Learn more about refinancing your mortgage to consolidate debt.

Requirements for Mortgage-Based Debt Consolidation

To qualify for mortgage-based debt consolidation with bad credit:

  • You must have sufficient equity in your home (typically at least 20%)
  • A stable income source to make the new payments
  • Property in good condition and in a marketable location
  • Despite credit challenges, a demonstrated ability to handle the new payment

Bad Credit Debt Consolidation: What You Need to Know

What Constitutes "Bad Credit" in Canada

In Canada, credit scores typically range from 300 to 900. Here's how they're generally categorized:

Credit Score Range Category Likelihood of Traditional Approval
760-900 Excellent Very High
725-759 Very Good High
660-724 Good Good
560-659 Fair/Below Average Low to Moderate
300-559 Poor Very Low

If your score falls below 660, you may be considered to have "bad credit" by many traditional lenders, making it challenging to secure favourable loan terms.

How Bad Credit Affects Your Consolidation Options

Having low credit score impacts your debt consolidation options in several ways:


  • Higher interest rates compared to prime borrowers
  • More limited lender choices
  • Potentially higher fees (origination fee, etc.)
  • Stricter equity requirements for mortgage-based solutions
  • May require additional security or guarantors

Qualifying Despite Credit Challenges

At Clover Mortgage, we specialize in helping Canadians with credit challenges. We focus on:


  • Your current income and employment stability
  • Your home equity (for mortgage-based solutions)
  • Your overall debt-to-income ratio
  • Recent payment history and improvement trends
  • The reasons behind past credit issues

We've helped clients who've been turned down by banks due to bankruptcies, consumer proposals, late payments, and other credit challenges. Learn how to improve your LTV for bad credit mortgages.

The Application Process with Clover Mortgage

When you apply for a debt consolidation loan with Clover Mortgage, we make the process as smooth as possible:

Step 1: Initial Consultation

We begin with a free, no-obligation consultation to understand your situation, explain your options, and determine the best approach for your needs.

Step 2: Documentation Collection

We'll help you gather the necessary documents, which typically include:

  • Proof of identity
  • Proof of income (pay stubs, T4s, NOAs)
  • List of assets and liabilities
  • Details of the debts you wish to consolidate
  • Property information (for mortgage-based solutions)

Step 3: Lender Matching

With access to over 40 major banks and lenders and more than 300 mortgage products, we'll shop the market to find the best solution for your situation.

Step 4: Application Submission

We handle the paperwork, submit your application, and advocate on your behalf with lenders.

Step 5: Approval and Funding

Once approved, we guide you through the closing process to ensure your debts are properly paid off and your new loan is set up correctly.

The entire process can take as little as a few days for certain private lending solutions, or 2-3 weeks for traditional mortgage refinancing.

Interest Rates and Fees

TERMS FIXED VARIABLE PRIVATE 1ST MORTGAGE PRIVATE 2ND MORTGAGE
5 Year 3.89% 4.04%
4 Year 3.99%
3 Year 3.79% 4.15%
2 Year 4.19% 7.99% 9.99%
1 Year 4.69% 5.99% 7.99%
7 Year 4.34%
10 Year 5.65%

Current Interest Rate Ranges

Interest rates for bad credit debt consolidation loans vary based on several factors:

  • Mortgage-based solutions: Typically 1-3% higher than prime rates for those with bad credit
  • Secured personal loans: Generally 8-15% for bad credit borrowers
  • Unsecured debt consolidation loans: Usually 15-30% for those with credit challenges

Private lender options: Typically 7-15% depending on equity and situation

Understanding the Total Cost

When evaluating a debt consolidation loan, consider these potential costs:

  • Interest payments: The total interest over the life of the loan
  • Origination fees: Administrative costs to set up the loan
  • Appraisal costs: For mortgage-based solutions
  • Legal fees: For mortgage registrations
  • Prepayment penalties: If you plan to pay off the loan early

While these fees might seem significant, they often pale in comparison to the interest savings from consolidating high-interest debt.

Repayment Terms and Options

Available Loan Terms

Debt consolidation loans come with various repayment periods:

  • Mortgage-based: Typically 15-30 years
  • Personal loans: Usually 1-7 years
  • Private loans: Often 1-3 years

Payment Frequency Options

Most lenders offer flexible payment schedules:

  • Monthly payments
  • Bi-weekly payments (can save interest and pay off debt sooner)
  • Accelerated bi-weekly payments
  • Weekly payments

Early Repayment Considerations

Before signing, understand your options for:

  • Making lump-sum payments
  • Increasing regular payment amounts
  • Paying off the loan completely before the term ends

Some loans have prepayment penalties while others offer flexible prepayment privileges. We'll help you find a solution that matches your future plans.

Why Choose Clover Mortgage for Your Debt Consolidation

Deep Industry Experience

With over 20 years in the mortgage industry, our team brings exceptional expertise to help you navigate debt consolidation options tailored to your unique financial situation.

Bad Credit Specialists

We've successfully helped thousands of Canadians with credit challenges secure favorable debt consolidation solutions when traditional banking institutions have turned them away.

Extensive Lender Network

Our established relationships with more than 40 major banks and lenders give you access to over 300 custom mortgage products with competitive rates unavailable through direct bank applications.

Client-Centered Solutions

Since 2018, we've been dedicated to providing transparent, judgment-free service that empowers you to make informed decisions about your financial future and debt management strategy.

Our Customers Love Us

Sandra F.
Sandra F.
I was in debt and needed help getting back on track. My mortgage agent at Clover Mortgage helped me get approved for a home equity loan to consolidate all of my debt in one small monthly payment. Now I’m saving over $1,000 a month in interest and am left with less debt and more money in my pocket at the end of each month. Thank you Clover!
David J.
David J.
I'm a self employed independent contractor. I earn a decent income, but when I went to the bank to refinance my home, they denied my application telling me that I didn't have enough "provable" income to qualify for refinancing my home. When I came to Clover I was almost out of hope. My Mortgage Agent at Clover was caring and professional, and help me get a great rate and flexible terms on full refinance. The whole process took less than 48 hours! I was impressed at how quickly and easily they were able to get me the money and home refinance I needed. Thank you Clover Mortgage, I'm recommending you to everyone I know!!
Andrea R.
Andrea R.
I had really bad credit, but really wanted to purchase a Condo. When I went to the bank they made me go through a lengthy application process that took weeks, and then they turned me down at the end of it all. When I found Clover Mortgage online, I called them and a friendly Mortgage Agent was able to help me get approved for a mortgage quickly and hassle-free. I got a good rate and now live in a home that I am comfortable in and am able to easily afford my monthly payments.
Ankur R.
Ankur R.
I definitely recommend Clover Mortgage to any new home buyer! They were very professional and helped my husband and I get mortgage for our new home at an even better rate than the bank was offering us. They also helped us get the mortgage with a smaller down-payment than the bank demanded from us. Since we did our mortgage with Clover, several of our friends and family members got their from them also, and Clover Mortgage has been able to help all of them, even the ones that were completely turned away and rejected by their banks.
Janet L.
Janet L.
My husband and I found ourselves in a tough situation. Luckily my expert mortgage broker at Clover Mortgage helped us get a fast and easy approval for an amazing rate for refinancing our home. Clover's service is the best I've ever experienced and I've been recommending them to all of my family members and friends ever since. Thanks for your help Clover!
Raj I.
Raj I.
I definitely recommend Clover Mortgage to any new home buyer! They were very professional and helped my wife and I get mortgage for our new home at an even better rate than the bank was offering us. They also helped us get the mortgage with a smaller down-payment than the bank demanded from us. Since we did our mortgage with Clover, several of our friends and family members got their from them also, and Clover Mortgage has been able to help all of them, even the ones that were completely turned away and rejected by their banks.

How Debt Consolidation Can Improve Your Financial Future

Immediate Benefits

When you consolidate your debts, you'll likely experience:

  • Reduced stress from simplified finances
  • Improved cash flow from lower monthly payments
  • Clear visibility into your total debt situation
  • Protection from collection calls as debts are paid off

Long-Term Financial Improvement

Over time, debt consolidation can lead to:

  • Credit score improvement through consistent, on-time payments
  • Faster debt elimination if you maintain the same payment amount
  • Reduced total interest paid over the life of your debts
  • Improved debt-to-income ratio for future borrowing

Building Towards Better Credit

As you make regular payments on your debt consolidation loan:

  • Negative items on your credit report will have less impact over time
  • Your credit utilization ratio will improve
  • You'll establish a positive payment history
  • You may qualify for better rates when refinancing in the future

Alternatives to Debt Consolidation

While debt consolidation is an excellent solution for many, it's important to consider all options:

Debt Management Plans

  • Work with a credit counsellor
  • May reduce interest without new borrowing
  • Often involves closing credit accounts

Consumer Proposals

  • Formal insolvency proceeding administered by a Licensed Insolvency Trustee
  • Can reduce debt amount by up to 70%
  • Stays on credit report for 3 years after completion

When to Consider Alternatives

Debt consolidation might not be your best option if:

  • You don't have significant high-interest debt
  • You lack equity or assets for security
  • Your income is insufficient for the new payment
  • You're facing temporary financial hardship

Our team can help you assess whether debt consolidation or another approach is right for your situation.

Debt Consolidation in Toronto and Calgary

Toronto-Specific Considerations

The Greater Toronto Area presents unique opportunities for debt consolidation:

  • Higher average home values mean more potential equity for homeowners
  • Competitive lending market with many options
  • Local economic factors that lenders understand
  • Specialized private lending options

Explore mortgage options in Toronto and the GTA.

Solutions for Calgary

While based in Ontario, Clover Mortgage provides debt consolidation solutions in Calgary:

  • Mortgage solutions in all major markets
  • Understanding of regional property value trends
  • Knowledge of provincial lending regulations
  • Connections with national and regional lenders

Take Control of Your Debt Today

Living with overwhelming debt doesn't have to be your reality. With Clover Mortgage's specialized experience in bad credit debt consolidation loans, you can:

  • Combine your debts into a single, manageable payment
  • Potentially lower your interest rates
  • Create a clear path to becoming debt-free
  • Improve your credit score over time
  • Reduce financial stress and anxiety

Our team is ready to help you explore your options and find the debt consolidation solution that best fits your unique situation. With over 20 years of experience in the Canadian mortgage industry and relationships with more than 40 lenders, we've helped thousands of Canadians just like you take control of their finances.

Don't let bad credit stop you from seeking help

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your debt consolidation options.

Book free consultation

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can get a debt consolidation loan with fair credit or even poor credit. Clover Mortgage specializes in helping Canadians with credit challenges find loan options through our extensive network of financial institutions and private lenders.

While traditional lenders typically prefer scores above 660, we work with clients across all credit ranges. Other factors like home equity, income stability, and debt-to-income ratios often matter more than the minimum credit score requirements for bad credit consolidation loans.

Approval likelihood varies based on your financial situation. With the right lender, consolidating existing debt can be accessible even with credit challenges. After a soft credit inquiry, we'll match you with appropriate loan options to save money on your total debt.

No official government debt relief program exists specifically for consolidation. However, legitimate debt consolidation loans offer real benefits by combining multiple debts into one loan with potentially lower annual percentage rates and more manageable minimum payments.

A hard credit inquiry during the loan application may temporarily lower your score. However, long-term benefits often outweigh this minor impact as consolidation helps you make timely payments, reducing your overall debt and potentially improving your credit over time.

Mortgage brokers like Clover Mortgage often provide the best debt consolidation loan options compared to other lenders. We access over 40 financial institutions, can process your loan application quickly, and can distribute loan proceeds to creditors within 1-2 business days.

Credit score requirements vary by lender. While banks typically require 650+, our lending partners may approve consolidation loans with scores as low as 500 when other factors like equity, income stability, and repayment capacity are strong.

Most lenders prefer debt-to-income ratios below 43%, but some consider ratios up to 50% for debt consolidation. Your annual percentage rate and loan amount may vary based on this ratio, but we work to find options regardless of your current debt load.

Typically, you'll need proof of identity, income verification (pay stubs or NOAs), a list of existing debt with balances and payment amounts, property information for mortgage-based solutions, and bank statements for your checking account.

Approval likelihood depends on your complete financial picture, not just credit score. Even with bad credit, homeowners with equity have excellent approval chances. We pre-qualify clients to determine their best options before submitting formal applications.

Once approved, loan proceeds are typically available within 1-7 business days. Mortgage-based solutions may take 2-3 weeks, while personal consolidation loans from private lenders can often provide funds quickly, sometimes in as little as 24-48 hours.