Any situation leading to bankruptcy may not be happy, but your life can improve afterward. Maybe what you need is a fresh start. You can find this by filing a bankruptcy claim. Keep reading for how you can make bankruptcy a second chance instead of financial doom.
Many people find that they must file for bankruptcy protection because they have more debt than they can afford to repay. If this is the case for you, you should begin to investigate the legislation in your state. There are greatly varying laws concerning bankruptcy, so it is important to make sure you are getting the correct information. For instance, in some states you can keep your home and car, while other states prohibit this. Become acquainted with local bankruptcy laws before filing.
Prior to filing for bankruptcy, be sure you have investigated all of your alternatives. You have other options, including consumer credit counseling help. Bankruptcy is a serious negative on your credit history so make sure you have no other options before you file. It is important to keep your credit history as positive as possible.
If you are feeling like you are seriously going to have to file for bankruptcy then do not clear out your savings. Unless there are no other options, your retirement funds should never be touched. Though you may have to break into your savings, keep some available for difficult times. You will be glad you did.
Free Consultations
Find a bankruptcy attorney who offers free consultations, and ask lots of questions. Most lawyers offer free consultations, so talk to a few before making your decision. Choose an attorney who is experienced, educated and well-versed in bankruptcy laws. You need not decide right away. So, this gives you plenty of time to consult with several attorneys.
It is important to understand clearly the benefits of a Chapter 7 or 13 bankruptcy. Learn the benefits and drawbacks of each type before deciding which is right for you. Ask your bankruptcy lawyer to clarify anything you don’t understand before making a final decision about which type of bankruptcy to file.
After you have filed for bankruptcy, enjoy your life. Bankruptcy is a stressful process: you will have to go over your bad financial decisions and perhaps feel ashamed about your decision. Don’t let the process control you in a negative way. You will get through it, and you should make an effort to remember that. While the process is tough, you are getting a chance to start over.
Filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy will not prevent auto loans or mortgages from being obtained. However, it will be a longer and more arduous task. You need to contact your trustee so you can get approved for a new loan. When meeting with the trustee, bring a budget which shows that you will be able to afford the payment on the loan you are trying to get. You should also be prepared to explain why you need to purchase the item.
When filing for personal bankruptcy you should always be aware of your rights. Occasionally, debt collectors will attempt to convince you that your debt isn’t eligible for bankruptcy. Most loans can be discharged outside of certain things, like child support or loans you are paying back due to student lending. If you are unsure about specific types of debt, check the bankruptcy laws in your state or consult an attorney.
Lots of individuals who previously filed bankruptcy vow to shun the use of credit cards or lines of credit in the future. Using credit helps you build up your credit again. Good credit is needed to make major purchases, such as those for homes and automobiles. However, if you don’t use credit, you will be unable to establish a good credit history, which is necessary in order to make those purchases. You can rebuild your credit slowly, beginning with just one credit card.
Before you file, make the choice to be fiscally reliable. It is especially important to refrain from taking on any new debt before filing. Your creditors will take your current finances into account when assessing your bankruptcy filing. It is important to show that you are committed to acting in a responsible manner going forward.
Just because you file for bankruptcy it does not follow that you must lose everything you own. Personal belongings that fall under private property are something that you can keep. You can keep your clothes, your furniture, your jewelery and your primary vehicle for instance. You will need to talk to a bankruptcy attorney to find out whether your local laws and personal situation will allow you to keep your car or home.
If you must file for bankruptcy, think about hiring a bankruptcy lawyer. The complexities of the process of filing, court proceedings and other issues can best be handled by a competent lawyer. They can also help to unravel the complexities of the paperwork and give you any further information you need.
Don’t slow down any filing plans before starting a new job. Bankruptcy might still be in your best interest. It can be very beneficial to file for bankruptcy. If your filing is done before you earn a new income, you can calculate repayment means without taking that into account.
Bankruptcy Case
If, once you file Chapter 7 bankruptcy, it comes to light that you no longer qualify to receive the Homestead Exemption,it may be possible for you to do a Chapter 13 filing on top of your mortgage. Sometimes the best thing to do is completely convert your Chapter 7 bankruptcy case to a Chapter 13 bankruptcy case. You’ll need to discuss this with your lawyer.
As you read in the beginning of this article, bankruptcy is not something anyone looks forward to. On the other hand, the new beginning that bankruptcy offers can lead to a new life story. By using the tips from the above article, you can turn bankruptcy into a positive turning point.