It can be hard, but at times necessary, to file for bankruptcy. This decision may not be easy, but it is comparatively easier when you know what the process entails and how to navigate it. Read this article for some helpful tips from those informed about bankruptcy.
A lot of people find themselves needing to file bankruptcy when they are unable to pay their bills. If this sounds like you, start familiarizing yourself with your state laws. Laws differ from one state to the other. For instance, in some states, you can’t lose your home to bankruptcy, while in other states, you can. It is important to understand the laws in your state before filing for bankruptcy.
If you are considering using credit cards to pay your taxes and then file for bankruptcy, you may want to rethink that. You will find few states that discharge this kind of debt. You may also wind up owing a lot of money to the IRS. If the tax can be discharged, so can the debt. So it does not help you to put the tax bill on your charge card if you know the debt will be discharged anyway.
You should check with the personal bankruptcy resources available online to educate yourself thoroughly before you begin the process. Many sites, including the U.S. There is solid advice available from the NACBA, (Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys’ association) the ABI, (American Bankruptcy Institute) and the United States Department of Justice. The more information you have, the more confident you can be about any decision you make and you will know that you are doing the best thing possible for your situation.
Do not use your retirement fund or savings to pay off creditors. No matter what you do, do not touch your personal savings unless there is no other option. Your savings accounts offer valuable financial security so try to leave them intact.
Consider other alternatives before filing for bankruptcy. Those with smaller debts may find use in a program for consumer credit counseling. Sometimes you can negotiate a reduced payment, though you must strive to get it all in writing.
Although you can find many bankruptcy attorneys listed in your local Yellow Pages or online, it’s best if you can find one through the personal recommendation of a friend, family member or acquaintance. There are way too many people ready to take advantage of financially-strapped individuals, so you must ascertain that your attorney can be trusted.
Many bankruptcy attorneys offer the first consultation with no charge, so consult with several before deciding on one. It is important to meet with the actual attorney, not the attorney’s assistant or paralegal; those people are not permitted to give legal advice Comparing different lawyers makes it possible to find one with whom you work well.
Personal Bankruptcy
Make sure that you really need to file for bankruptcy. Many times a consolidation loan will ease your financial struggles. There is not easy process associated with personal bankruptcy. Remember that your credit will be affected by the mark of personal bankruptcy for a long time. Because of this, you should be sure that bankruptcy is your only option before you file.
Don’t pay for the consultation with a lawyer who practices bankruptcy law; ask a lot of questions. Most lawyers offer free consultations, so talk to a few before making your decision. Decide which lawyer you like best buy reviewing all of the lawyers’ answers to your questions. Choose the lawyer who addressed your issues the best. Take your time choosing the right attorney to assist in your bankruptcy. That gives you the chance to speak to a number of lawyers.
Chapter 13 bankruptcy might be a good option, so don’t overlook it. You are probably eligible for Chapter 13 if your income is consistent and your unsecured debt is under $250,000. Chapter 13 bankruptcy permits you to remain the owner of your properties, while allowing you to repay your debt using a debt consolidation loan. This plan usually lasts from 3 to 5 years, after which, you will be discharged from all unsecured debt. However, if you are unable to properly commit to the plan you agree to, your case can be dismissed.
If you are making more money than you owe, bankruptcy should not even be an option. Sure, bankruptcy can get rid of that debt, but it comes at the price of poor credit for 7-10 years.
After you have filed for bankruptcy, enjoy your life. The process of filing for bankruptcy can make people a nervous wreck. Depression and burn-out from pent of stress will do nothing to help your situation, so it is critical to let go a little. Once the process if over, your life will improve.
Educate yourself about state bankruptcy laws and possible outcomes before filing your petition. Laws are subject to change, and it’s important that you’re educating yourself about current code only. To learn how the law has changed recently, go online and check your state’s website, or call the state government and ask them.
It is possible to obtain new vehicle and home loans while a Chapter 13 case remains active. There are extra hoops to jump through. You will be required to meet a trustee and be approved for a new loan. You need to show them why and how you can handle paying back the new loan. It will also be necessary to show why a new purchase needs to be made.
Nobody enjoys filing for bankruptcy, but at times, you can’t avoid it. After reading this article, you should have learned some important information about the bankruptcy process. Learning from others who have filed for bankruptcy is the best way to ensure that you make intelligent decisions and avoid making any mistakes.