As you probably know, the economy is in the toilet. When the economy tanks, many people lose jobs and accumulate debt. Many of these debts end up in bankruptcy filings, which just makes the problem worse. For anyone who is facing the threat of bankruptcy, the advice in this article can help you deal with the situation more effectively.
Instead of jumping into a bankruptcy filing, be sure your situation requires it. Avail yourself of other options, including consumer credit counseling, if they are appropriate for your situation. Bankruptcy is a serious negative on your credit history so make sure you have no other options before you file. It is important to keep your credit history as positive as possible.
Be certain to gain a thorough understanding of personal bankruptcy by using online resources. The United States DOJ, along with a number of other bankruptcy institutes and attorneys specializing in bankruptcy can give you invaluable information. As with everything in life, the more you know about filing a claim, the better off you’ll be. You can properly prepare when you know what you’re preparing for.
If you are going through a bankruptcy do not fall victim to guilt and pay off debts that you do not need to pay. You should not use your retirement savings unless the situation calls for it. Your savings accounts offer valuable financial security so try to leave them intact.
Never shirk on the truth in your petition for bankruptcy. Do not hide any income or assets or go on a spending spree before filing for bankruptcy: the court will find out and will not have a positive opinion of you.
Try to get a bankruptcy lawyer that your friends recommend, as opposed to someone that you find from the Internet or yellow pages. There are plenty of companies who know how to take advantage of people who seem desperate, and it’s important to be sure your bankruptcy can go smoothly; take your time and choose someone you can trust.
If you are considering using credit cards to pay your taxes and then file for bankruptcy, you may want to rethink that. In most states, this is not dischargeable debt. Therefore, you will end up owing the IRS a lot of money. A common rule is that dischargeable tax means dischargeable debt. So using your credit card to pay off your tax obligations, then filing for bankruptcy, can actually hurt you instead of help you.
Before pulling the trigger on bankruptcy, be sure that other solutions aren’t more appropriate for your case. One example would be that a consumer credit program for counseling if you have small debts. Negotiating with creditors is another option, but creditors are notorious for “forgetting” these agreements, so get them in writing!
Chapter 7
Understand the differences between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. In Chapter 7 bankruptcy, your debts are all eliminated. All the things that tie you to creditors will go away. If you choose to file for Chapter 12 bankruptcy, you’ll be put into a 60-month plan for repaying your debts before they’re eliminated. You must know about the different bankruptcy types, and how each can affect you.
It should go without saying, but refrain from lying in your bankruptcy filings. Not hiding any assets or income is essential for avoiding possible penalties and your ability to re-file at some point in the future.
It is important to know how Chapter 7 filings differ from Chapter 13 filings. Be sure you go on the Internet and do your research to see what’s best for you. If you don’t understand the information you researched, consult with your attorney about the details before you decide which type of bankruptcy you want to file.
Learn what you can about Chapter 13 bankruptcies. You are eligible to file Chapter 13 bankruptcy if your income is reliable and your unsecured debt does not exceed $250,000. You can secure your home under Chapter 13 and pay your debts with a payment plan. This repayment period usually lasts from three to five years. If you make your payments faithfully during that time, any remaining unsecured debt will be eliminated. However, if you are unable to properly commit to the plan you agree to, your case can be dismissed.
Don’t hide from your friends and family while you go through bankruptcy. Going through bankruptcy is difficult. At the end of the process, many people are left with feelings of shame and worthlessness. A lot of people hide away until the entire proceedings have been played out. However, this isolation will just make you feel worse, and it could cause you to be depressed. It’s crucial to spend time with loved ones despite your present financial situation.
Don’t give up. There may still be way to get repossessed items back after you file for bankruptcy. You may be able to recover repossessed property if the repossession occurred fewer than 90 days ago. Talk to your lawyer to find out how to go about properly filing a petition.
Although the economy appears to be improving, there are many, like you, who are still struggling financially. Even long-term job loss does not inevitably have to result in bankruptcy. Hopefully, you are now aware of how to get yourself or your loved ones on the right track in order to avoid bankruptcy. Put this advice to work for you starting today.