As part of 2019 amendments to the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act, under the new framework, companies that offer high-cost credit products, such as instalment loans and lines of credit with more than 32% interest, will require annual licensing and regulation by Consumer Protection BC.

This oversight will help ensure that businesses understand and comply with these new requirements, and that consumers are protected and can make informed choices when using high-cost alternative financial services.

The changes also establish new transparency requirements and borrower protections. Rules prohibit certain fees, set requirements for credit agreements and establish borrower rights and remedies.

These improvements are part of government’s 2018 Consumer Financial Protection Action Plan to strengthen consumer protections and improve affordability for the most financially vulnerable people in B.C. Previous phases included enhanced financial protections for consumers that use payday loans and government-cheque-cashing services.

A new Consumer Financial Education Fund, which also comes into effect May 1, 2022, will enhance consumer financial education and awareness throughout the province. The fund will be sustained by the industry as part of their annual fees.

As the Province’s consumer protection authority, Consumer Protection BC will administer the new framework and Consumer Financial Education Fund. Information about high-cost credit products for consumers and the licensing process for businesses can be found on Consumer Protection BC’s website.

Learn More:

Consumer Financial Protection Action Plan:
https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2019PSSG0020-000263

Regulation of high-cost credit products to protect consumers:
https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2021PSSG0093-002228

Borrowing money online resources:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/family-social-supports/borrowing-money

Information about B.C. consumer protection laws – Consumer Protection BC:
www.consumerprotectionbc.ca