Lodging a Proof of Debt
A proof of debt is how you formally tell an external administrator what you are owed so you can share in any distribution.
What you'll learn
- What a proof of debt is and why it matters
- What documents to attach to support your claim
- How claims are admitted or rejected
- What to do if a deadline is set
6 min read
What it is
A proof of debt is a formal statement of the amount a company owes you, lodged with the liquidator or administrator. Submitting one is normally how an unsecured creditor becomes eligible to receive any dividend the process produces. If you do not lodge, you may be left out when value is distributed — even where your debt is genuine and undisputed.
What to include
Set out the total claimed and how it is made up, then attach evidence:
- copies of unpaid invoices and statements;
- the contract or terms of trade;
- delivery or completion records;
- any guarantee, security, or PPSR registration.
Claim the amount you can actually support. An inflated or vague claim invites a query and delay.
How claims are assessed
The administrator reviews each proof against the company's records and may admit it in full, admit part, or reject it. They can ask for more information, so respond promptly and keep copies of everything you send. Being organised and accurate makes admission smoother and faster, and reduces the risk of your claim being set aside on a technicality.
Deadlines and dividends
If a dividend is to be paid, a date is usually set by which proofs must be in. Diarise it and lodge in good time. Even a well-founded claim can miss out if it arrives late. Where a debt is still live and a formal process has not begun, it is often better to refer it for recovery first.
A note on advice
This is general information only, not legal, financial, or tax advice. Lodging requirements vary by appointment and over time, so check the administrator's instructions and seek advice if your claim is large or contested.
Key takeaways
- Lodging a proof is usually how you qualify for any dividend.
- Attach invoices, contracts, and proof of supply.
- Claim only what you can evidence to avoid queries.
- Meet any deadline — late proofs can miss the dividend.
Frequently asked questions
Does lodging a proof guarantee I'll be paid?
No. It makes you eligible to share in any distribution, but whether anything is paid depends on the assets available. General information only.
What if I missed the deadline?
Contact the administrator promptly. Outcomes vary, and a late proof may still be considered in some circumstances, but there is no guarantee.
Do secured creditors lodge a proof too?
Their position differs because they may rely on their security first. Seek advice on how a proof interacts with any security you hold.
Knowledge is good. Getting paid is better.
Merion's team recovers what you're owed — commission-only, no upfront fee.