Bankruptcy is a complex process. There are different types of bankruptcy, and the type that you choose depends upon your personal finances and the nature of your debts. It is essential to learn as much as you can about bankruptcy before choosing to file. This article will give you some of the important facts about bankruptcy.
Filing for bankruptcy is something many people are forced to do when there debts become too much of a burden, and they can no longer afford to pay them. When you are faced with this issue, begin to familiarize yourself with your state’s laws. Each state has their own bankruptcy laws. For instance, in some states, you can’t lose your home to bankruptcy, while in other states, you can. Familiarize yourself with the bankruptcy laws of your state prior to filing.
Do not even think about paying your taxes with credit and petitioning for bankruptcy right after. Most of the time, you cannot discharge this debt. As a result, you will owe the IRS a lot of money. Rule of thumb is if the tax is dischargeable, then the debt will be dischargeable. So, there’s no reason to make use of a credit cards if it will not be discharged in bankruptcy.
Personal Bankruptcies
If bankruptcy is an option for you, secure the services of an attorney. Personal bankruptcies are detailed and complex processes, and you may miss something that costs you money. An attorney specializing in personal bankruptcies can assist and make certain things are being handled correctly.
Brush up on the latest bankruptcy regulations before you decide whether or not to file. If you want to file for bankruptcy successfully, it’s important to review the latest applicable laws. They tend to change frequently. Your state’s legislative offices or website will have up-to-date information about these changes.
Prior to choosing a bankruptcy attorney, seek a free consultation with at least three attorneys. 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 By shopping lawyers, you will be more likely to find one that makes you comfortable about the process.
Be sure your home is well protected. Bankruptcy filings do not necessarily mean that you have to lose your house. It may be possible to keep your home if the value has depreciated, or there is a second mortgage. You may also want to check out the homestead exemption because it may allow you to keep your home.
Interest Rates
You should weigh every option before thinking about bankruptcy. You can get your interest rates reduced or enter into a debt repayment plan. Before you file bankruptcy, ask your attorney if any of these are viable alternatives for you. For example, if you are in talks of foreclosure, you could use a modified loan to overcome your debt. This type of plan allows your lender to work with you eliminating charges, extending your loan, and lowering interest rates to help you pay back the loan without drowning in debt. When all is said and done, the creditors want their money, so sometimes it’s best to deal with a repayment plan than with a bankruptcy debtor.
If keeping your vehicle is of great concern, ask your lawyer if you can secure a payment modification. In many cases, Chapter 7 bankruptcy can lower your payments. You need to have bought your car 910 days before you file, have a loan with high interest and you’re also going to need a good work history.
If you have filed for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you will still be allowed to apply for and receive a mortgage or car loan. However, it will be a longer and more arduous task. You will need to secure the trustee’s approval for any new debt obligation. You will need to come up with a budget and show that this new loan payment schedule is doable. Be ready to justify the purchase that you need the loan for, too.
Refrain from feeling shameful about your bankruptcy. Bankruptcy can sometimes leave people feeling guilty, ashamed and alone. Do not let these negative feelings influence your decision. Maintaining a positive outlook during a troublesome financial upheaval is the best way to cope with bankruptcy.
Be certain to have a good understanding of bankruptcy regulations prior to filing a petition. As an example, it is prohibited for someone to transfer assets from the filer’s name for one year prior to filing. In addition, it is unlawful for the filer to increase the amount of debt they are carrying on their credit cards right before they file.
Now after reading the above article you see that bankruptcy must be thought over extremely carefully before going through with it. If you feel that it is your best option for your current financial state, you should contact an experienced bankruptcy lawyer who can advise you in this turning point in your life.