A Q&A with Rob, Licensed Insolvency Trustee at Spergel
If you’re struggling with debt, taking that first step toward getting help can feel overwhelming. At Spergel, we know how stressful it can be just to pick up the phone or click “book a free consultation.” But that one small step to book in a Licensed Insolvency Trustee consultation could make a huge difference.
Licensed Insolvency Trustees are the only professionals in Canada legally able to file all forms of debt relief, including consumer proposals and bankruptcy. To help demystify the process of a Licensed Insolvency Trustee consultation, we sat down with Rob Kilner, one of our Licensed Insolvency Trustees (LITs), to walk through what really happens during that first meeting – and why so many people walk away from it feeling lighter, more hopeful, and more in control.
Q: Rob, let’s start simple. What exactly is the purpose of a first Licensed Insolvency Trustee consultation?
Rob: The goal of the first Licensed Insolvency Trustee consultation is to understand where you are financially – and how we can help. You don’t need to make any decisions on the spot. It’s a free consultation, and there’s no obligation to move forward. We simply talk through your situation and explain your options.
We’ll look at things like your income, debt, monthly expenses, and any assets you might have. It’s not about judgment or blame – it’s about finding a path forward that’s right for you.
Q: That sounds more relaxed than some people might expect. What should someone bring to make the most of the meeting?
Rob: We actually have a great article on our website that breaks this down in detail: What to bring to a Licensed Insolvency Trustee meeting.
In short, if you can bring:
- A list of your debts and creditors
- Recent pay stubs or income details
- An idea of your monthly expenses
- Basic info about your assets (like a house or car)
…that’s a great start. But honestly, even if you come in with nothing, we can still have a really productive conversation. The important thing is just showing up.
Q: What kind of questions will you ask at Licensed Insolvency Trustee consultation?
Rob: We’ll ask about the kinds of debt you’re dealing with, how long it’s been an issue, and what you’ve tried so far. Then we’ll go over your income and expenses, and any financial obligations like child support or medical bills.
It’s more of a conversation than a checklist. Everyone’s situation is different, and we want to understand the whole picture.
Q: Are people ever surprised by what they learn?
Rob: All the time. Many people assume bankruptcy is their only option – but in a lot of cases, a consumer proposal is a better fit. Others don’t realize how quickly things like wage garnishments or collection calls can be stopped once we file. They often also don’t realize that a consumer proposal can reduce their debts by up to 80% while allowing them to keep their assets.
People are also surprised by how straightforward and judgment-free the process is. They often tell me, “I wish I’d done this sooner.”
Q: What if someone feels ashamed or embarrassed to talk about money?
Rob: That’s incredibly common. Debt is deeply personal, and most people don’t talk about it until they’re really overwhelmed. But I always say: you’re not alone, and you’re not the first person to be in this position. We’ve helped over one hundred thousand Canadians get their finances back on track, and have been doing so for over 35 years so we really have seen it all. No judgment, ever. That’s a promise.
Q: What happens after the Licensed Insolvency Trustee consultation if they want to move forward?
Rob: If you decide to proceed with a consumer proposal or bankruptcy, we’ll handle all the paperwork and guide you through every step. We’ll also help you prepare the necessary documents and talk you through what comes next.
And because you work with the same Licensed Insolvency Trustee from start to finish at Spergel, you won’t be passed around or have to re-explain your story, unlike other firms. That personal connection really matters, and it’s a real differentiator when you choose to work with Spergel.
Q: And what if a formal filing isn’t the right option?
Rob: We’ll say that too. Sometimes the best option might be a consolidation loan, credit counselling, or even just a revised budget. We’re here to help you understand all your options – not to push a particular one.
Q: Any final words for someone feeling nervous about booking a Licensed Insolvency Trustee consultation?
Rob: You’ve already done the hardest part by considering it. The rest is just a conversation – one that could change your life for the better. Whether you move forward or not, at least you’ll have the facts and a clearer sense of what’s possible. And that’s something you deserve, and should feel proud of.
Ready to take the first step? Book your free consultation with a Licensed Insolvency Trustee at Spergel today. You don’t need all the answers – just a willingness to explore your options. We’ll take it from there. Because debt shouldn’t decide your financial future.
What to read next
- The top 10 debt questions Canadians are asking in 2025 – and what you need to know
- What is a bankruptcy trustee? Understanding their role in debt relief
- Bankruptcy lawyer or Licensed Insolvency Trustee?
- Licensed Insolvency Trustee: What is a LIT?
- Bankruptcy trustee near me: finding the closest Licensed Insolvency Trustee
