Because of the way our economy works, driven by consumer debt, bankruptcy claims are becoming increasingly commonplace. This is due to the current financial climate. You need to educate yourself so that you can make wise decisions when it comes to filing bankruptcy. This article will teach you what you need to know.
You should avoid paying your taxes with credit cards and then immediately file for bankruptcy. Most states do not look at this debt as chargeable, and you could end up owing money to the IRS. If the tax can be discharged, so can the debt. So using your credit card to pay off your tax obligations, then filing for bankruptcy, can actually hurt you instead of help you.
Instead of getting your lawyer from the yellow pages or on the Internet, try your hardest to find one with a personal recommendation. There are way too many people ready to take advantage of financially-strapped individuals, so you must ascertain that your attorney can be trusted.
Determine which of assets are safe from seizure and which are not before filing for personal bankruptcy. The Bankruptcy Code has lists of various asset types that are exempt during the process. It’s crucial to read that list before filing to see which of your prized possessions can be seized. If you don’t heed that advice, you might find yourself getting surprised when your favorite things are repossessed.
Be persistent in researching information about filing for bankruptcy and consult a qualified personal bankruptcy attorney. There may still be way to get repossessed items back after you file for bankruptcy. Any property repossessed within 90 days before filing bankruptcy, may be able to be returned to you. Talk to a lawyer for help with the petition filing process.
Before making the decision to file for bankruptcy, be sure you have considered alternative options. If your debts are really not overwhelming, you may find the assistance you need by consulting a consumer credit counselor. Also, if you just contact your creditors and speak to them plainly and truthfully, the odds are good that you can negotiate a better payment structure that you can afford.
Prior to choosing a bankruptcy attorney, seek a free consultation with at least three attorneys. By law, paralegals and assistants can not give legal advice, so be sure that you are meeting with an actual attorney. Looking for an attorney will help you find a lawyer you feel good around.
Spending time with the people you love is something you should do now. The process of bankruptcy can prove particularly brutal. It is lengthy, stressful and often leaves people feeling ashamed, unworthy and guilty. Lots of people choose to disappear for a while until the entire process is over and done with. Pulling away from people who care for you will not help the situation, and can cause your negative feelings to intensify. So, it is critical that you keep spending time with the ones you love, regardless of the current financial situation.
Do some research about bankruptcy laws before filing for bankruptcy. Here is one example, an individual who files for bankruptcy cannot transfer any assets for a year before the filing date. Also, the filer can not increase their debt before filing.
Do not use credit cards for cash advances prior to filing a bankruptcy petition, as it can affect the dischargeability of the debt. This will be viewed as fraud, and you may be held responsible for the balances despite your bankruptcy filing.
Do not doddle with whether or not bankruptcy is for you. Your debt will only continue to mount as you waiver on the decision, difficult as it might be. By consulting a professional, you will be able to get the advice that you need before everything gets too complicated.
Find out how much you owe to your different creditors. You need to gather every debt you know you have, because this list is the starting point for a bankruptcy filing. Be sure to verify the exact amount of each debt you owe by checking paperwork or calling your creditors. This process should not be rushed; the numbers should be exact.
Clearly, the economy nowadays has had a dreadful effect on individuals and has caused bankruptcy to be a topic that is on everyone’s minds. To help you make good decisions regarding bankruptcy, consult with this article and use the knowledge to your advantage.