An independent Alberta would have to take on a share of Canada's national debt.
Claimed by: Raised by economists assessing separation
Contested: Credible sources disagree, or the outcome depends on events that have not happened yet. How we rate.
Short answer
There is no fixed rule that sets how a country's debt is divided when a region leaves, so any figure would come out of negotiation rather than a formula. State-succession practice and the Quebec precedent suggest a separating region would be expected to assume a share, often estimated by population or by share of GDP, but the exact amount and even the terms would be bargained. Economists note Canada would hold significant leverage over a landlocked Alberta, which could push Alberta's share higher than a simple population split. A study of Quebec secession put its likely starting share around 20 to 25 percent of federal debt.
What remains uncertain
Credible sources disagree, or the outcome depends on negotiations and decisions that have not happened yet. This review describes the dispute; it does not resolve it.
What the evidence shows
Economist Trevor Tombe notes there is no established mechanism for dividing the national debt, and that Canada would hold significant bargaining leverage over a landlocked Alberta.
An analysis of Quebec secession concluded the starting point for negotiations would be roughly 20 to 22 percent of federal debt, adjusted upward for Canada's bargaining position.