Collective debt settlement

Collective debt settlement is a legal procedure that a debtor can resort to if they have structural debt issues. By referring the matter to the commercial court, they will be able to stabilise their financial situation and guarantee the repayment of their debts wherever possible, all while being able to continue to live under dignified conditions.

Collective debt settlement can take two forms: the amicable method, where the parties agree on the details, amounts and other matters in a way that best suits them; or judicial recovery, imposed by the judge on all parties after they have failed to agree.

It should be noted that this collective debt settlement procedure does not apply to companies but only to non-traders such as employees, the unemployed, farmers, and people exercising liberal professions.

Definitions provided under this section refer to the Belgian situation; unless specified otherwise. The texts are meant to summarize concepts in daily language and should not be considered as comprehensive or definite. We welcome suggestions for modifications or additions at glossary@tcm.be.