If you are considering filing for bankruptcy, you are likely not to be very happy about it, but that doesn’t mean things can’t improve once you file. The bankruptcy is that you have a new beginning. The article will give you advice to help make process of filing a claim.
If you find yourself going through this, you should begin to investigate the legislation in your state. Different states have different laws when it comes to bankruptcy. For instance, in some states you can keep your home and car, but others do not. You should be aware of local bankruptcy laws for your state before filing for bankruptcy.
Credit History
You should check with the personal bankruptcy resources available online to educate yourself thoroughly before you begin the process. The United States Department of Justice, NACBA, and American Bankruptcy Institute websites are all great places to go for up-to-date information. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to make the wise decisions needed for a successful bankruptcy.
You can find services like consumer credit counselling services. Bankruptcy leaves a permanent mark on your credit history, so before you make such a big decision, you want to exhaust all other options so that the future effects on your credit history are as minimal as possible.
Filing a bankruptcy petition might facilitate the return of your property, like your car, electronics and jewelry items. You may be able to get your possessions back if the repossession occurred fewer than 90 days ago. Speak with a lawyer who will be able to help you file the necessary paperwork.
Learn of new laws prior to deciding to file bankruptcy. Bankruptcy laws are in constant flux, and you need to be aware of any changes so your bankruptcy can be properly filed. Your state’s website will have the information about these changes.
Don’t use a credit card to pay off your taxes before filing for bankruptcy. In most states, you will still owe money to the IRS and have to take care of the interest of your credit cards. If the tax can be discharged, so can the debt. So, there’s no reason to make use of a credit cards if it will not be discharged in bankruptcy.
Chapter 7
Be certain to grasp the distinction between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Chapter 7 involves the elimination of all of your debts for good. Any ties you owe to creditors will be wiped clean. Chapter 13 bankruptcy though will make you work out a five year repayment plan to eliminate all your debts.
Understand the differences between a Chapter 7 and a Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Take the time to learn about them extensively, and look at the advantages and disadvantages of each.If you do not understand what you are reading, consult with your attorney about the details before you decide which type of bankruptcy you want to file.
If you are truly faced with bankruptcy, avoid blowing your savings or retirement money, trying to pay off debts. No matter what you do, do not touch your personal savings unless there is no other option. Using your savings is necessary, but decimating it and leaving yourself dangling with no future financial security is not a good idea.
Be certain that bankruptcy really is your best option. It may be that all you really need to do is consolidate some of your debt instead. It can be quite stressful to undergo the lengthy process to file for personal bankruptcy. It will also limit your ability to secure credit for the next few years. This is why it is crucial that you must make sure bankruptcy is your other debt relief options first.
As stated in the above article, anytime someone is forced into bankruptcy is never a happy situation. That said, filing for bankruptcy can be a positive turning point in your life. Actually, by using the advice you’ve learned here, your story of hardship could have a happy ending after all!
