Suggestions Of Other Options Besides Personal Bankruptcy
Filing for bankruptcy is a very important decision and one that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Check out the advice given in this article so that you can have an idea of what you can expect before you make such an important decision. Research the topic extensively in advance.
Do some research online about personal bankruptcy to get a better idea of what this procedure implies. The United States D.O.J., the A.B.I and the N.A.C.B.A. are all useful organizations willing to provide educational material. By having more knowledge, you can make the right decision, as well as be sure you are ensuring that your personal bankruptcy case goes smoothly.
Before you proceed with your personal bankruptcy case, review your decisions to be certain that the choice you are making is the right. Consider any other options that are available to you, such as consumer credit counseling. Bankruptcy permanently affects your credit, so avoid filing until you have exhausted all of your other options.
Make sure you are completely honest when filing for bankruptcy. Hiding your assets is never wise. Whomever you plan to use should know a lot about the finances that you have, both the good and the bad. Don’t withhold information, and create a smart way of coping with the reality of the situation.
Stay up to date with any new bankruptcy filing laws. The laws change a lot, so you need to look them up and have a better idea of how to properly approach the bankruptcy process. To stay up-to-date on these laws, check out your state’s government website.
Chapter 7
Be certain that you can differentiate between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Chapter 7 is the best option to erase your debts for good. All happenings with creditors will disappear. But, with Chapter 13, you will be in repayment plan for about 5 years prior to any debts you have being totally dissolved. When choosing the type of personal bankruptcy that is correct for you, it is very important that you know the differences.
Look into filing Chapter 13 bankruptcy. If you owe an amount under $250,000 and have a consistent income source, Chapter 13 may be right for you. That way, you can hold onto your personal assets and pay back a portion of your debts pursuant to an approved plan. The window for Chapter 13 repayments is typically 3-5 years. At the end of this time, any unsecured debt is discharged. Missing a payment under these plans can result in total dismissal by the courts.
If keeping your vehicle is of great concern, ask your lawyer if you can secure a payment modification. In many cases, Chapter 7 bankruptcy can lower your payments. There are qualifications, such as the loan being high interest and a good work record for this option.
If you are filing for bankruptcy, it is imperative that you have a good understanding of your rights. Many creditors or bill collectors might tell you your debts cannot be included in a bankruptcy. There are not many debts that can not be bankrupted, student loans and child support for example. If a collector tries to convince you that some other type of debt, such as a credit card, is non-discharagable, get the company’s information and send a report to your state attorney general’s office.
Bankruptcy can be overwhelming to most people, and can be quite stressful. To have a reliable and trustworthy guide through the process, find a highly qualified attorney. Try not to pick a lawyer based on cost alone. You do need someone who is costly, just someone who is good at what they do. Talk to friends who have been through a similar situation and ask them for referrals. If you wish, you can attend a bankruptcy hearing and witness your attorney in action.
Bankruptcy is not a chance happening in anyone’s life. By going through the process correctly, the outcome will be further in your favor than it might otherwise have been. Keep this article’s advice in mind and you will probably stand a better chance of laying all the groundwork for your own bankruptcy properly.
