Nowadays, more and more people are facing the sad reality that they have no choice but to file for bankruptcy. The economy can be partially to blame for the rise in bankruptcy. Before filing for personal bankruptcy, take some time to understand the entire process and applicable laws so that you can make wise decisions. This article will help you to make the best choices.
Instead of jumping into a bankruptcy filing, be sure your situation requires it. Look into credit counseling to see if it could help you work out of your debt without bankruptcy. Bankruptcy will be on your credit report and affect your credit score for many years to come, so it is a decision that should not be taken lightly. Try to use it as a last resort.
Be completely honest whenever you file for personal bankruptcy. Hiding any asset or liability is a risk that will bite you in the end. Your attorney and trustee should be privy to all information about your finances. Don’t withhold information, and create a smart way of coping with the reality of the situation.
Prior to filing for bankruptcy, research which assets will remain exempt from creditors. Check the bankruptcy laws in your state to find out if certain items are excluded from your bankruptcy filing. Be well prepared for bankruptcy by reviewing this list. It will tell you whether are not the things you value most are subject to seizure. If you fail to do so, things could get ugly.
Never pay for a consult with a bankruptcy lawyer, and ask plenty of questions. Seek free consultations from a handful of lawyers, before deciding which one to hire. Make a choice only if you have received good answers to all the questions and concerns you brought to the table. It is not necessary to make a final decision right away. This allows you time to speak with numerous lawyers.
If you’re filing for bankruptcy soon, be sure you are going to hire a lawyer. Bankruptcy is a complex process, and you probably don’t know all the information that is required to navigate it. An attorney that specializes in personal bankruptcy, can help guide you and make sure that your filing happens properly.
Understand the differences between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Chapter 7 bankruptcy is intended to wipe out all outstanding debts. All happenings with creditors will disappear. Chapter 13 bankruptcy though will make you work out a payment plan that takes 60 months to work with until the debts go away. It’s important to know what differences come with every type of bankruptcy. This will let you find out what’s best for you.
Consider Chapter 13 bankruptcy, if you chose to file. If you currently have some income and don’t have more than $250k in debt, you can declare bankruptcy. That kind of bankruptcy allows you to hold on to your personal things and real estate while repaying your debts with a plan to consolidate your debt. This plan usually lasts from 3 to 5 years, after which, you will be discharged from all unsecured debt. Remember that missing a payment to the plan will result in your case being dismissed.
Do not file for bankruptcy if your income is greater than your bills. Although bankruptcy may feel like a simple method of getting out of your large debt, it leaves a permanent mark on your credit history for up to 10 years.
Personal Bankruptcy
Protect your house. Filing for bankruptcy will not always result in losing your home. Depending on if your home’s value has gone down or if it has a second mortgage, you might be able to keep it. If you’re not sure, however, you can always study the particular homestead exemption regulations. You will learn everything you need to know.
Think about all the choices available to you when you file for bankruptcy. Some alternatives to filing for personal bankruptcy include debt repayment plans, interest rate reduction plans, and debt consolidation. Talk with the personal bankruptcy lawyer to find out more. If foreclosure is imminent, see if your loan can be altered at all through a modification plan. Your lender can help you get current on your loan by offering you one of a number of modifications, such as getting rid of late charges, lowering interest rates, or extending the length of the loan. When all is said and done the creditors just want their money, and more often than not will work with you on a repayment plan.
Find ways to relax while you go through the process of filing for bankruptcy. Filing is the most intensive step in the process, so afterwards it’s important to let go of some of your stress. Make sure you take care of your part and let your attorney do the rest. Once your petition is in the hands of the judge, all you can do is wait.
As noted in the beginning of the article, bankruptcy is a hot topic nowadays, mostly because of the state of the economy. In order to make sure you make the best decisions when it comes to the topic of bankruptcy, be sure to use the advice that this article has given you.
Consider Chapter 13 bankruptcy. If you have regular income and under $250K in unsecured debt, a Chapter 13 may be right for you. Declaring bankruptcy can assist you in consolidating your debt so you can repay it more easily. This plan usually lasts from 3 to 5 years, after which, you will be discharged from all unsecured debt. However, if you miss even one payment, the court will dismiss your entire case.