It is really scary to be way over your head in debt. It is possible for debt problems to escalate out of control, overnight. Unfortunately, it is not simple to fix. The article you are about to read will give you advice on dealing with your debts through bankruptcy.
Once a person’s debts outstrip his or her ability to repay them, bankruptcy may be the only option left. If you’re in this position, it is a good thing to familiarize yourself with the laws that apply in your area. The laws governing bankruptcy vary from state to state. For example, the personal home is exempt from being touched in some states, but not in others. Know what the laws are in your state before filing.
One of the best ways to learn more about the bankruptcy process is to hit the Internet and look up reputable bankruptcy websites. The United States Check out the Bankruptcy Institute site and do some research about consumer’s rights. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to make the wise decisions needed for a successful bankruptcy.
As bankruptcy appears on the horizon, don’t take your savings or retirement accounts to try to pay off all your bills. You should always keep money saved for worse times. You may need to withdraw some funds from your savings account, but don’t take everything that is there as you will be bereft of any financial backup if you do.
Don’t hesitate to give your attorney a heads-up about something she has missed. It is wrong to assume that your lawyer will remember every word you ever utter! This is your bankruptcy case, so do not be afraid to remind your lawyer of any key facts.
Make sure you are completely honest when filing for bankruptcy. Hiding your assets is never wise. When you file make sure whoever is handling the process is fully aware of each and every financial detail. Do not hold back anything, and form a sound plan to make peace with your reality.
Don’t hesitate to give your attorney a heads-up about something she has missed. You should not take for granted that your lawyer will remember every important detail that you have have told him earlier without a reminder. Don’t be afraid to speak up, as it is your case and your future will be affected by its outcome.
Before you file for personal bankruptcy, be sure that you are cognizant of all current laws. This area of law is in constant flux and it is imperative that you know where the law stands at the time you file for your bankruptcy. A qualified bankruptcy attorney is the best source for the latest information regarding the laws in your state.
Chapter 13
The two main kinds of bankruptcy are Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Make sure you understand them so you know what is best for you. Chapter 7, for example, will wipe away every one of your outstanding debts. With very few exceptions, the connections between you and your creditors will be severed. But, with Chapter 13, you will be in repayment plan for about 5 years prior to any debts you have being totally dissolved. Take the time to learn more about these different options so you can make the best decision possible.
Determine which assets won’t be seized before filing for bankruptcy. The Bankruptcy Code has lists of various asset types that are exempt during the process. You need to read the exemptions for your state, so you know what property you can protect. If you do not read this list, you could be in for some nasty surprises in the future, if some of your most prized possessions are seized.
Look at all the alternatives to bankruptcy before filing. Talk with a bankruptcy lawyer and ask about alternatives, such as debt consolidation or negotiating with creditors. If you are looking at foreclosure, think about a loan modification program. Sometimes your lender will work with you to help pay off your debt by giving you a lower interest rate, forgiving late fees, or extending the time period of your loan. After all is said and done, your creditors will still want their money. For this reason, you may wish to investigate debt repayment programs in lieu of bankruptcy programs.
There are often times when you feel that you have very little control over what is happening to you. The above article has provided you with advice to allow you to handle your finances and deal with the option of bankruptcy. It is time to take action and fix your problems.