Are your finances a mess? Do you believe that filing for bankruptcy is your only choice? Fear not, you are in good company. A lot of people have thought of bankruptcy as the only choice they had to get rid of their financial troubles. This article will give you helpful tips to make sure your bankruptcy goes smoothly.
Do some research online about personal bankruptcy to get a better idea of what this procedure implies. The United States Check out the Bankruptcy Institute site and do some research about consumer’s rights. Knowing is half the battle, after all, and these websites are the first step in learning what you need to know to make your bankruptcy smooth and stress-free.
Getting unsecured credit post-bankruptcy will likely be difficult. If this is so, apply for a secured card or two. This will be a demonstration of the seriousness with which you view rebuilding your credit rating. In time, you might be granted unsecured credit again.
Before you file for bankruptcy, find out which of your assets will be exempt from seizure. The Bankruptcy Code lists assets considered exempt from being affected by bankruptcy. It is vital that you know the things on this list prior to filing for bankruptcy, in order to determine which of your possessions will be taken away. If you fail to go over this list, you may be unpleasantly surprised sometime down the road if any of your most valued items are seized.
Do not give up hope. You may be able to regain property like electronics, jewelry, or a car if they’ve been repossessed by filing for bankruptcy. If the repossession occurred within 90 days from your filing date, it is possible that some of your property can be returned to you. Discuss your options with a good lawyer who can help you with the filing of your bankruptcy petition.
Don’t pay for an attorney consultation and ask him or her anything you want to know. Since most attorneys offer free consultations, meet with a few attorneys before deciding who to hire. Only make your decision if all your questions and concerns are adequately addressed. Take your time choosing the right attorney to assist in your bankruptcy. That gives you the chance to speak to a number of lawyers.
Chapter 13
Look into filing Chapter 13 bankruptcy. If you have regular income and under $250K in unsecured debt, a Chapter 13 may be right for you. That kind of bankruptcy allows you to hold on to your personal things and real estate while repaying your debts with a plan to consolidate your debt. Such plans generally take between 3 and 5 years to complete, at which point. a discharge will be granted. However, if you are unable to properly commit to the plan you agree to, your case can be dismissed.
Do not forget to enjoy life a little once you get through the initial filing process. The process of filing for bankruptcy can make people a nervous wreck. You do not want to have to deal with depression in addition to your financial troubles, so you should take steps to keep yourself happy. You are getting a fresh start, and things will get better.
Before you file for bankruptcy, make sure you understand your rights. Occasionally, debt collectors will attempt to convince you that your debt isn’t eligible for bankruptcy. Only a small number of debts are not dischargeable, including student loans and child support obligations. If a bill collector attempts to say their bill cannot be discharged, look it up. If they are wrong, report them.
As was stated earlier, the bankruptcy journey is one shared by many others. By reading this article, you have given yourself an advantage that many of these people lacked. Make an effort to use the information shared here with you to simplify the bankruptcy process for yourself.