There are many emotions experienced by those going through personal bankruptcy. These feelings can make it hard to make it through the day, and can leave people feeling stuck. Overcoming this bad financial situation is definitely possible and you will read some helpful tips that will show you how.
Do not attempt to pay your taxes with your credit cards and subsequently file for bankruptcy. Most places will not consider the debt dischargeable, meaning you will have to pay the IRS a lot of money. If the tax can be discharged, so can the debt. So, there is no reason to use your credit card if it will be discharged in the bankruptcy.
Make sure you’ve exhausted all other options prior to declaring bankruptcy. Alternatives do exist, including consumer credit counseling. Be certain that bankruptcy is the only option you have before pursuing this course because bankruptcy is always evident on your financial and credit history.
If you are going through a bankruptcy do not fall victim to guilt and pay off debts that you do not need to pay. Don’t touch retirement accounts unless you don’t have a choice. Of course you will have to touch some of your savings to get through all of the hearings, but do not put out any money that you do not have to by law.
Don’t avoid telling your lawyer specific details with your case. Don’t assume that he will remember something you told him weeks ago. Speak up if something is troubling you, as this is your future we are talking about here.
Unsecured Credit
After filing for bankruptcy, you may have difficulty getting approved for unsecured credit. If that is the case, you should try applying for one, or two secured cards. You can exhibit your desire to rebuild your credit this way. After a while, you may be able to get unsecured credit again.
You may end up losing more than you bargained for when you file a bankruptcy claim, so be sure that you know just which assets may be taken before filing. You can find a listing of the asset types that are excluded from bankruptcy in the Bankruptcy Code. Be sure that you study this list. Make yourself aware of any assets you have that could be seized. If you don’t heed that advice, you might find yourself getting surprised when your favorite things are repossessed.
When you do meet with a lawyer make sure that they answer all of your questions and that they do not charge you for consultation alone. Most lawyers will meet with you for free and give you helpful advice, so meet with several. You should make a final decision only once all of the questions or concerns are sufficiently attended to. Take your time choosing the right attorney to assist in your bankruptcy. You can take your time and check out several attorneys before making your final selection.
If bankruptcy is an option for you, secure the services of an attorney. Filing for bankruptcy is complicated and there is no way you can understand all you need to know. An attorney will make sure that everything is being done correctly.
A free consultation is standard for bankruptcy attorneys, so shop around before settling on one. Just be sure that the person you speak with really is the lawyer, rather than a paralegal, since they cannot legally give advice. Be sure to check out a number of lawyers so that you will find one who is just right for you.
It is important to know how Chapter 7 filings differ from Chapter 13 filings. Spend time researching the advantages and disadvantages of filing for each one of these. Engage your attorney in a conversation about each type, and ask him to answer any questions you may have before deciding which kind is right for you.
Now that you know a little more about bankruptcy, this process should be much easier for you. You may have found yourself being fearful when you began thinking of bankruptcy, but once you get through it, you will find it’s not the end of the world. Follow our tips to work your way past your burden of debt.