Debt Restructuring

Definition: A financial process in which a debtor and creditor modify the terms of an existing obligation—such as interest rates, payment schedules, or principal amount—to make repayment more manageable and reduce the likelihood of default.

Examples: A company negotiated debt restructuring with its lenders to extend payment terms and lower monthly obligations during a period of reduced cash flow.

A commercial borrower pursued debt restructuring after experiencing declining revenue, allowing the business to extend its loan repayment timeline and avoid a potential default. The lender agreed to revised terms after reviewing updated financial statements and forecasts.

In B2B collections, creditors may offer restructuring when a customer demonstrates willingness to pay but cannot meet current terms. This could include reducing the monthly payment, temporarily lowering interest, or dividing a lump sum into installments to keep the account active.

Debt restructuring is often an effective alternative to litigation because it preserves the business relationship and improves the creditor’s chances of long-term recovery. By adjusting terms early, both parties prevent unpaid balances from escalating into legal disputes or bankruptcy filings.

A well-structured restructuring agreement stabilizes cash flow for the debtor and provides predictable repayment for the creditor. It can help distressed companies regain footing while giving lenders transparency and control over how the remaining balance will be repaid.