590 – Will Your Investments Survive Serious Debt?

590 – Will Your Investments Survive Serious Debt?

Author: Doug Hoyes December 20, 2025 Duration: 29:52

If you're carrying serious debt but also have money in an RRSP, TFSA, or other investments, one of the biggest fears is this: Will I lose everything if I get help?

Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos, Licensed Insolvency Trustees, break down what actually happens to your investments when debt becomes unmanageable. They explain which assets are protected under Canadian insolvency law, which are at risk, and when cashing out savings can do more long-term harm than good.

CRA TFSA Contribution Calculator

Bankruptcy & Insolvency Act, paragraph 67 

Hoyes Michalos Credit Repair Strategies and Rebuilding Course

Sign Up for the Monthly Debt Free Digest

Hoyes Michalos YouTube Channel

Learn About Debt Relief Options in Ontario


(00:00) Debt and investments: will savings survive serious debt?
(02:10) The fear of "losing everything" when seeking debt help
(04:20) Pressure to cash in investments before asking for help
(06:30) Using a TFSA to pay debt: when it makes sense
(09:10) RRSP withdrawals and the real tax consequences
(12:45) Why multiple RRSP withdrawals don't reduce total tax owed
(15:30) What happens to RRSPs and pensions in bankruptcy
(18:40) Which investments are not protected in insolvency
(21:30) Consumer proposals vs. bankruptcy: what you keep
(24:30) Can you still invest while repaying debt?

Disclaimer:
The information provided in the Debt Free in 30 Podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only and is not intended as personal financial advice. Individual financial situations vary and may require personal guidance from a financial professional. The views expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Hoyes, Michalos & Associates, or any other


Doug Hoyes sits down each week with a different specialist to untangle the complicated feelings and hard numbers around owing money. The conversations in Debt Free in 30 move beyond simple scare tactics or dry theory, focusing instead on actionable strategies for managing debt, rebuilding savings, and making informed investing choices. You’ll hear from trustees, financial planners, and counselors who explain concepts in plain language, stripping away the industry jargon that often leaves people feeling overwhelmed. Whether it’s navigating a consumer proposal, understanding credit scores, or starting to invest with a tight budget, this podcast provides a clear-eyed look at the steps toward financial stability. Doug’s approach is grounded and pragmatic, reflecting his deep expertise in the field, making each episode feel like a direct consultation with a knowledgeable guide. Tuning in regularly offers a consistent source of demystified advice, turning what can be a stressful topic into a manageable process. It’s that blend of expert insight and relatable conversation that defines this particular personal finance podcast.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 500

Debt Free in 30
Podcast Episodes
608 – Advice or Sales Pitch? Why Canadians Have Lost Trust in Banks [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:27
Most Canadians trust their bank to help them make smart financial decisions. But sometimes, what feels like advice is shaped by something else. We talk about how bank incentives influence recommendations, why that can le…
607 – Credit Score vs Cash Flow: What Actually Matters in a Crisis? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:22
A high score does not always indicate stable finances. It is possible to keep up with most of your bills and maintain a decent credit score while still feeling like you are falling behind. When cash flow is stretched, ev…
605 – Owe CRA Tax Debt? The Biggest Loan Mistake Canadians Make [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:23
Owing money to the CRA can feel urgent, and taking out a loan might seem like the fastest way to fix it. But in many cases, it can make your situation worse. Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos break down when borrowing to pay o…