Debt

A debt is the obligation that a person (the debtor) is liable to execute towards another person (the creditor). The debt and the receivable (or claim) refer to the same obligation, but then seen either from the creditor’s or the debtor’s perspective.

Debt collection companies deal with certain, liquid and matured debts.

• Certain: the founding principle of the obligation is established or seems established.
• Liquid: the debt claim is liquid when its amount is determined (sum of money) or can be determined (which can be assessed in cash).
• Matured: the debt is definitively due (on or past its due date) and no longer depends on the performance of any condition (such as a creditor consideration).

Updated 27/11/2017

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.