Canadians have always had a strong relationship with our southern neighbours. We escape the winter, they explore new places, and we support each other's economy. We also partake in cross-border shopping. Americans hop the border with their strong dollar and purchase goods from Canada. Canadians cross over and grab great sales at major U.S. retailers, but depending on how we pay, we're racking up U.S. debts.

Some of these purchases are made on our own Canadian credit cards, but some are made using U.S. store credit cards. Those who live closer to the border have an even stronger relationship with the U.S. Depending on their industry, some Canadians work in the U.S., but live in Canada. When the U.S. has a strong dollar, it makes sense for Canadians as their take home pay is higher than what they would make in Canada. This is great if the U.S. economy stays strong, but when it waivers, it's not so good.

Today we discuss what happens with U.S. debts when you have financial problems in Canada, with my guest, Licensed Insolvency Trustee Rebecca Martyn.