Alberta consumer debt delinquencies jump 25%

Albertans have the highest average debt load in the country at more than $27,000, says Equifax Canada. 

A study released this morning says consumer debt delinquencies in the province jumped 25 per cent over the same quarter last year. 

But the nationwide delinquency rate didn't change, and Equifax Canada says rates remain at historic lows. 

Equifax Canada says its numbers indicate Albertans have the highest average debt load in the country — more than $27,000. (Canadian Press)

"Despite the ups and downs of today's economy we're seeing that Canadians are generally able to manage debt and rein in spending when they have to," Regina Malina, the senior director of decision insights at Equifax Canada, said in a release.

"It may be a surprise to some, but the fact is delinquency rates in the oil-producing provinces are still relatively low. Most people are still finding a way to pay back what they owe."

Average provincial debt (excluding mortgages)

• Ontario: $21,072 
• Quebec: $18,070 
• Nova Scotia: $21,709
• New Brunswick: $22,107
• PEI: $21,483 
• Newfoundland: $22,766 
• Alberta: $27,576 25
• Manitoba: $17,913
• Saskatchewan: $23,941
• British Columbia: $23,040
• Canada: $21,458 

Average debt in Calgary is $28,421 excluding mortgages, while Edmonton's average debt is $26,479 compared to average consumer debt nationwide of $21,458. 

The only age category to experience an increase in delinquency rates in the last quarter of 2015 was the under-26 group. The rate for that category rose 2.9 per cent. 

"Debt is often used as a tool for consumers to accomplish their objectives. However, as people get older, their income earning capabilities generally trend downward," Equifax said in a release. "To increase their financial security, Canadians should develop a plan to pay off their debt within a set timeframe."

Provincial delinquency rate change  (Q4 2015 vs. Q4 2014)

• Ontario: –6.3 per cent
• Quebec: –2.5 per cent
• Nova Scotia: 2.2 per cent
• New Brunswick: –4.1 per cent
• PEI: 2.4 per cent
• Newfoundland: 11.8 per cent
• Alberta: 25.1 per cent
• Manitoba: 6.4 per cent
• Saskatchewan: 14.0 per cent
• British Columbia: –5.6 per cent
• Canada: 0.0 per cent

Equifax says interest rates will rise eventually and those relying on the availability of cheap credit will be tremendously vulnerable.

Canada's total reported consumer debt is now at $1.621 trillion, compared to $1.529 trillion a year ago.

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