Proof of Debt forms In most insolvency administrations creditors may be asked to complete Proof of Debt forms. Such forms detail the total amount owed to the creditor. Extreme care should be taken when completing these forms. Supporting documentation should always be provided. The Proof of Debt form will often be the main document used by an insolvency practitioner in determining the amount admitted as owed to the creditor. This in turn may affect the creditor’s entitlement to a dividend. Accordingly, it is essential that those forms are completed accurately and in a timely manner. If you have any issues with the completion of Proof of Debt forms, contact Woodgate & Co.
Reports to creditors From time to time, an insolvency practitioner will report to creditors about the conduct of an insolvency administration. The report will provide information about investigations that have occurred, the realisation of assets, the conduct of any legal proceedings concerning the debtor and the likelihood of a dividend being paid to creditors. Reports to creditors are a valuable resource and a useful method of communication between the insolvency practitioner and creditors of the insolvent entity.
Meetings of creditors In most insolvency administrations it is common to call a meeting of creditors. At such meetings, creditors may vote on resolutions to change the insolvency practitioner or to determine the future of the insolvent entity. Additionally, creditors will often be asked to consider issues such as the practitioner’s remuneration. Attendance at these meetings is optional. However, if you wish to be involved in the administration of the insolvent entity, it may be useful to attend. In this regard, technology allows a degree of flexibility with teleconference facilities often available. Further, the ability to nominate a proxy allows another individual to attend the meeting on your behalf and vote on resolutions.
Dividends Once an insolvency practitioner has realised all the assets of an insolvent estate, a dividend may be paid to creditors. There are different classes of creditors with different priorities. Both the Corporations Act and the Bankruptcy Act require that all creditors in a particular class are treated equally. Accordingly, the same dividend rate will be paid to each creditor, in a particular class.