Being in debt is far from fun, and it is even downright scary at times. In some cases, what started as a manageable amount of debt turns into an insurmountable challenge. It’s unfortunate that once out of control, debt problems are very difficult to resolve. You might consider bankruptcy, look through this article and find out why.
Don’t use credit cards to pay your taxes if you’re going to file bankruptcy. In some places the debt can not be discharged, and you may still need to pay the IRS afterward. In most cases, you can use the adage that “a dischargeable tax is a dischargeable debt.” There isn’t any reason to use a credit card to pay the tax bill since the bill can be discharged anyway.
You might find it difficult to obtain an unsecured credit card or line after emerging from bankruptcy. If so, apply for a secured credit card. This will allow you to start building a good credit history while minimizing the bank’s risk. If you pay your secured card off on time, you’ll eventually find that companies will start offering you unsecured credit.
Prior to filing your bankruptcy petition, go over the list of assets that cannot be seized by creditors. The Bankruptcy Code lists the kinds of assets which are exempted when it comes to the bankruptcy process. It’s crucial to read that list before filing to see which of your prized possessions can be seized. If you aren’t aware of this, you could lose some assets that you value.
Do not give up hope. Filing for bankruptcy may allow you to get back property, such as an auto, jewelry, or electronics, that you may have had repossessed. If the repossession occurred within 90 days from your filing date, it is possible that some of your property can be returned to you. Speak with your attorney about filing the correct petition to get your property back.
Brush up on the latest bankruptcy regulations before you decide whether or not to file. Make sure to get the most up-to-date information concerning the bankruptcy laws in your state. If you are not sure about the current laws all you have to do is look into what laws have been passed.
Meet with a few attorneys who offer free consultations before hiring 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 Hiring a lawyer could help you become comfortable with the legal things that you will encounter.
Before filing a bankruptcy claim, make sure that your home is well protected. Filing for bankruptcy does not mean you have to lose your home. If your home has significantly depreciated in value or you’ve taken a second mortgage, it may be possible to retain possession of your home. Otherwise, there is a homestead exemption you should look into, as it might let you stay in your house.
There are differences between Chapter 13 bankruptcy and Chapter 7; be sure to familiarize yourself with both. There is a wealth of information online about each type of bankruptcy and their respective pluses and minuses. If you do not understand what you are reading, talk to your attorney before making that serious decision.
Chapter 13
Learn what you can about Chapter 13 bankruptcies. If your source of income is regular and your unsecured debt is less than a quarter million, Chapter 13 bankruptcy is something you are able to file for. Declaring bankruptcy can assist you in consolidating your debt so you can repay it more easily. Such plans generally take between 3 and 5 years to complete, at which point. a discharge will be granted. Consider that if you even miss one payment, your case will not be considered by the court.
If you can afford to pay your bills, bankruptcy is not a wise option. 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.
Don’t forget to enjoy yourself during your bankruptcy. Lots of debtors are stressed out when they’ve come to filing time. This kind of stress can take a heavy toll on your personal life, especially if you are not making any efforts to adopt a positive attitude. Once the process if over, your life will improve.
If you are in the midst of a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, it is possible to apply for certain loans. This is a lot harder. You will have to see your trustee and the approval for this new loan. When meeting with the trustee, bring a budget which shows that you will be able to afford the payment on the loan you are trying to get. Also, be sure you have a clear explanation as to why the item you are purchasing is absolutely necessary.
Be decisive at the correct moment in time. When it comes to filing for bankruptcy, your timing is important. Sometimes, it is good to file immediately, but sometimes it is smarter to wait until you have passed through the worst of things. Discuss your specific situation with a bankruptcy lawyer to find out when would be your best time to file.
Personal Bankruptcy
Research the rules and regulations of personal bankruptcy before you file. There are some clauses within bankruptcy that could cause you upsets. Mistakes can also have your case dismissed. Spend some time learning about personal bankruptcy. That way, you will have an easier road.
There are often times when you feel that you have very little control over what is happening to you. Yet, you can take better control of your future and plan out how you are going to secure your finances, for life. Having this information can change the way you face this challenge.