Whatever led you to declare bankruptcy is probably very sad, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t have a better life after bankruptcy. The whole point is to wipe the slate clean and have a new chance at life. Read this article to find out how to use bankruptcy for a chance at financial rebirth.
The primary catalyst for filing personal bankruptcy is having a large amount of debt that can’t be readily repaid. Study the laws in you state to learn what you need to do and what your options are. Laws differ from one state to the other. Some states may protect you home, and some may not. Become acquainted with local bankruptcy laws before filing.
Always be honest when filling out paperwork. Do not hide any income or assets or go on a spending spree before filing for bankruptcy: the court will find out and will not have a positive opinion of you.
When it comes to informing your attorney about your case, don’t be fearful. Never assume that they can remember all details without reminders. This is your bankruptcy and your future, so never be nervous about speaking your mind.
Investigate any new laws before deciding to file a bankruptcy. Bankruptcy laws are always changing, and you need to be aware of any changes so your bankruptcy can be properly filed. If you are not sure about the current laws all you have to do is look into what laws have been passed.
Learn how Chapter 7 bankruptcy and Chapter 13 bankruptcy differ from each other. There is a wealth of information online about each type of bankruptcy and their respective pluses and minuses. If you do not understand what you are reading, talk to your attorney before making that serious decision.
Loved Ones
Do not let bankruptcy consume you, make sure you make time for your friends and family. Bankruptcy can take a toll on you. It is extremely stressful and long, and it can leave you feeling ashamed of yourself. Many people don’t feel like socializing during the ordeal. Isolating yourself from your loved ones can lead to feelings of depression. It’s crucial to spend time with loved ones despite your present financial situation.
Before filing for bankruptcy under Chapter 7, make sure that you consider the implications this will have on any of your co-debtor, who are usually family members, close friends or business associates. Once you have filed Chapter 7, you, by law, are not responsible for any of your debts that also include your co-debtor. However, the creditors could come after your co-signer and demand full payment for the debt.
Timing is everything. The timing of your filing could be important to its success. In some cases, you should file for bankruptcy right away, but in others, there may be reasons why filing quickly would be a bad idea. Talk with a bankruptcy attorney to find out the ideal timing for filing based on your particular situation.
Gain an understanding of bankruptcy law before you file. There are several pitfalls with personal bankruptcy that can make your case harder to handle. Some mistakes in your papers can cause your case to be dismissed. Before you go ahead, devote a little time to research and the topic of personal bankruptcy. If you take care of this now, you can avoid problems going forward.
Once you decide to file, it is important to act in a more financially responsible manner. Don’t start racking up debt and don’t start up more dept before bankruptcy. Your creditors will take your current finances into account when assessing your bankruptcy filing. Your present handling of your finances will show that you are doing your best to change bad habits.
If you feel that bankruptcy filing may be right for you, seek some legal advice first from a specialist lawyer. In addition to providing you with advice, they can appear in court for you and make the whole process easier. The process won’t be simply, and your attorney can help you understand the necessary paperwork.
If you find a job right before filing your bankruptcy papers, and finally have a steady income, you may still want to file for bankruptcy. Bankruptcy may still be what is best for you. The timing of your filing is also going to be important. Repayment can be evaluated without new income if the filing is posted earlier.
If you are filing for bankruptcy, be sure you are being honest, no matter how dire your situation is. One of the worst things you can do is lie about your debts and assets. In fact, it is against the law. If you lie, there is a chance that you will land in prison.
Chapter 13
Filing for a different type of bankruptcy is a good idea if you think you will lose your home. Try Chapter 13 instead of Chapter 7. Since it may be better to file Chapter 13 rather than Chapter 7, make sure your attorney presents all of your options to you.
As stated earlier, anything that leads someone to bankruptcy is not a good story. Yet after bankruptcy, you can be happy again. Bankruptcy is not the end; by applying some or all of the tips in this article, you will make the process much smoother and your financial recovery that much faster.