The first question to ask is “do you qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy relief?” If yes, the attorney will guide you through the process and notify you of the many requirements that need to be satisfied. Don’t worry though. A good attorney will make it as easy as possible.

  When you file for bankruptcy, your job does not need to know in most cases. The exception would be if your employer is having to garnish your wages. In that case, you want your employer to be aware of your bankruptcy filing so that the garnishment can be stopped.

  Are you worried that you will not get credit after filing for bankruptcy? Do you think that your financial life is over? The truth is credit is available after filing. An auto loan is the easiest form of credit that is available immediately after a case is filed.

  The cost to file bankruptcy will depend upon the case. However, there are court costs of $338.00 for Chapter 7 and $313.00 for Chapter 13. Once you meet with an attorney, you will be given a quote for fees and payment plan terms.

  Filing bankruptcy on your own, known as Pro Se, can be a daunting task. You simply are not experienced in the process. You may wind up losing property that could otherwise be protected. Even worse, your case can be dismissed with no real relief afforded.

  We consider bankruptcy as a failure when it really is tantamount to a fresh start. Although you may not have set out to owe money, things do happen in life. The United States Bankruptcy Code provides relief to those that are struggling financially. It is relief.

  Filing for bankruptcy does not have the same negative effect that it did 30 years ago. Today it is more of a financial solution that does not automatically reflect negatively on your self-worth. It can be a financial tool to utilize and then move on.

  You can file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy and keep a substantial amount of property. Most debtors can keep a portion of the equity in homes, cars and bank accounts. The amount and nature will depend upon the state that the person resides in at the time of filing.

Are you worried about your credit score? What about the high debt that you are carrying? You may be able to eliminate your debt and then start to rebuild your credit. It doesn’t take nearly as long as most people think. In fact, you can rebuild credit with 6-18 months in many cases.

  Do you know if you are at a high risk of foreclosure? Are you struggling to make your regular mortgage payment? Have you already fallen behind and are trying to work a deal with your mortgage company? You have legal rights that they may not want you to know. We can help.

  If you are behind on your mortgage payments and looking to save your home, Chapter 13 could be the answer. Under Chapter 13 bankruptcy you can repay your mortgage arrears over a 3-5 year period while being allowed to make your regular mortgage payment going forward.

  Your credit score will drop after filing for bankruptcy. However, you should be able to rebuild credit within 6 months to 18 months after filing. Contact me to learn more about the right way to do it.

  If you are hiding your car because you can’t afford the payments, consider filing Chapter 13 to reorganize the debt over the next 3-5 years. You may find that you can pay less total per month and reduce the amount of interest owed over the life of the repayment plan.

Filing Chapter 13 can stop a repossession. It also allows you to recover your vehicle if it has been taken and not yet sold at auction. Pay the loan back over a 3-5 year period at a reduced interest rate. Don’t let your auto lender dictate the monthly payment going forward.

  Co-signed debt is tricky in bankruptcy. In a Chapter 7 case, a non-filing, co-signer is still liable for the debt. In a Chapter 13, a non-filing co-signer can be protected if the debt is a consumer debt and the plan provides for 100% repayment of that debt.

You can likely protect your retirement account when in debt. It will depend upon the type and nature of the retirement account. If the account is ERISA qualified, then it should be protected, even through a bankruptcy process.

The bankruptcy means test is a mathematical formula that helps determine whether or not a person has the ability to repay either all or a portion of debt over time. Although not absolute, the means test is a critical factor in consumer bankruptcy.

  The one court appearance for bankruptcy is being held on Zoom video. There is no need to physically appear at the courthouse anymore. This saves time and money for those that are already struggling to make ends meet.

  You will need some paperwork to get out of debt. This will include proof of income for the most recent two months, two years of Federal tax returns and a list of who you owe.

You can rebuild credit after filing for bankruptcy. You want to establish several trade lines that will report positively to the bureaus. Additionally, make certain that you do not incur any negative credit after your filing.

    A bankruptcy filing will stay on a credit report for up to 10 years for a Chapter 7 case and up to 7 years for a Chapter 13 case. However, you should be able to regain credit long before the bankruptcy filing is removed from your report.

  If you have co-signed for someone, you can be affected if that other person files for bankruptcy. Depending upon the Chapter, you may be the only person left from which a creditor can collect. Be careful when thinking about co-signing for another person’s debt.

  It is true that a bankruptcy filing will stay on a credit report for either 7 years or 10 years. However, that does not mean that you will not be able to credit again. Most forms of credit can be obtained within two years after a bankruptcy filing. Forget about credit and get out […]

Why worry about your credit score when you are drowning in debt? I would rather have a lower credit score and be debt free. Your credit can improve after filing for bankruptcy. I have seen this happen thousands of times over the past 33 years while helping people under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code.

  You can keep property while getting out of debt. The amount of property that you can keep will depend upon your State. Talk with a bankruptcy attorney to find out what you can keep.

    There are huge differences between Chapter 7 bankruptcy and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. One is the fresh start and the other is a consolidation or repayment plan. Contact me to learn which is best for you.    

The social stigma associated with filing for bankruptcy is multifaceted and can have significant impacts on individuals’ emotional well-being, relationships, and sense of self-worth. Here are some aspects of the social stigma to filing for bankruptcy: Perception of Financial Failure: Filing for bankruptcy is often perceived as a sign of financial failure or irresponsibility. Society […]

Should I File? In this real life example, we explore whether someone should file for bankruptcy or not.  We also examine the Chapter under which the person should file if at all.  There are a number of factors that determine whether or not someone should file for bankruptcy.  These factors include, but are not limited […]

Job loss is a significant life event that can drastically impact one’s financial stability, often leading individuals to consider bankruptcy as a viable option to manage their financial distress. Here’s how job loss can lead to filing for bankruptcy: Loss of Income: The most immediate impact of job loss is the loss of regular income. […]

Debt can have a profound impact on mental health, leading to stress, anxiety, and even depression. If you find that your debt is affecting your mental well-being, it’s crucial to address both your financial and mental health concerns. Here are steps you can take to manage the situation: Acknowledge the Impact: Recognize and accept that […]

Chapter 11 bankruptcy, often referred to as reorganization bankruptcy, can provide a lifeline for a failing restaurant by allowing it to restructure its debts while continuing its operations. This process can be particularly beneficial for restaurants facing temporary hardships or those with viable business models that are burdened by excessive debt. Here’s how Chapter 11 […]

Deciding between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a significant decision that can impact your financial future. Understanding the nuances of each option is crucial to making an informed choice that aligns with your financial situation and goals. Here’s an in-depth look at how to determine which bankruptcy chapter is best for you. Understanding […]

Debt-induced stress can significantly impact various aspects of life, including job performance. The anxiety and mental load of managing debt can lead to decreased concentration, reduced productivity, and even absenteeism at work. Here are steps you can take to mitigate the impact of debt stress on your job performance: Acknowledge the Stress Recognize the Impact: […]

Breaking free from the minimum payments trap is crucial for financial health and long-term debt management. When you only make the minimum payments on credit cards or loans, a significant portion of your payment goes toward interest rather than reducing the principal balance, which can prolong your debt repayment indefinitely. Here’s a strategic guide to […]

Be careful not to lose or liquidate personal property that can be protected through the Chapter 7 bankruptcy process.  Consult with an experienced bankruptcy attorney to learn your rights and to determine if your property is protected.

Dealing with persistent creditor harassment can be an incredibly stressful experience, especially when you’re already struggling with financial difficulties. If you’re seeking a way to stop creditor harassment, understanding how filing for bankruptcy can serve as a powerful tool may provide the relief you need. This article explores the relationship between bankruptcy and creditor harassment, […]

Filing for bankruptcy can effectively stop creditor harassment due to a powerful legal mechanism known as the “automatic stay.” The automatic stay is an immediate injunction that halts most collection efforts, lawsuits, and harassment by creditors against the debtor the moment a bankruptcy petition is filed. Here’s how it works to protect you from creditor […]

If you find yourself in a situation where you don’t qualify for either Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, it can feel like you’re out of options. However, there are alternative paths to consider for managing or alleviating your debt. Here are several strategies to explore: 1. Debt Settlement Debt settlement involves negotiating with creditors […]

Filing for bankruptcy is a significant step that requires thorough preparation and organization of your financial information. Gathering comprehensive financial documentation is crucial for a successful bankruptcy filing, whether you’re considering Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Here’s a detailed list of the financial information and documents you’ll need: Proof of Income Recent Pay Stubs: […]

Navigating through financial turmoil can lead many to consider bankruptcy as a viable option for a fresh start. Chapter 7 bankruptcy, often referred to as “liquidation” or “straight” bankruptcy, allows individuals to discharge most of their unsecured debts. However, given its significant impact on one’s financial life, including credit score and borrowing capabilities, it’s crucial […]

Chapter 13 bankruptcy offers a powerful tool for homeowners facing foreclosure, providing a legal mechanism to stop foreclosure actions and allowing them to catch up on missed mortgage payments over time. Here’s how Chapter 13 bankruptcy stops a foreclosure action and what it means for homeowners: Automatic Stay Immediate Effect: The filing of a Chapter […]

Calculating the Chapter 13 plan payment involves a detailed analysis of your income, expenses, debts, and the value of your non-exempt assets. The goal is to create a repayment plan that is fair to your creditors while being manageable for you over a three to five-year period. Here’s a breakdown of the factors considered in […]

Filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy offers a pathway to financial relief for many individuals overwhelmed by debt. By liquidating non-exempt assets and discharging certain debts, Chapter 7 provides a fresh start for debtors. However, it’s crucial to recognize that not all debts can be wiped clean through this process. Understanding which debts remain after a […]

Filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a decision that carries significant weight and comes with both immediate and long-term consequences. It’s often seen as a measure of last resort, but under certain circumstances, filing sooner rather than later can be the most prudent course of action. Below, we delve deeper into the top five reasons […]

Filing for bankruptcy can temporarily stop an eviction action due to the automatic stay that goes into effect immediately upon filing. However, the effectiveness of bankruptcy in stopping an eviction depends on several factors, including the stage of the eviction process and the specific circumstances of your case. Here’s how it works under Chapter 7 […]

Wage garnishment can significantly impact your financial stability, leaving you struggling to cover essential expenses. If you’re facing wage garnishment due to outstanding debts, filing for bankruptcy might be a viable solution to halt this process and regain control of your finances. This comprehensive guide explores how bankruptcy can stop wage garnishment, offering insights into […]

Filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy offers a fresh start for those overwhelmed by debt, but it also raises concerns about retaining essential assets, such as a financed vehicle. Understanding your options and the legal implications can help you make informed decisions about your car and your financial future. Here’s a deeper look into whether you […]

Finding a lawyer to help you file for bankruptcy is a crucial step in managing and overcoming your financial difficulties. The right bankruptcy attorney can provide valuable advice, ensure your paperwork is filed correctly, and represent you in court if necessary. Here are steps and tips on how to find a lawyer to assist with […]

When you file for bankruptcy, notifying your creditors is a crucial step in the process, ensuring that the automatic stay goes into effect and collection actions against you are halted. Here’s how the notification process works: Filing the Bankruptcy Petition The process begins when you file your bankruptcy petition with the bankruptcy court. This petition […]

Stopping bill collectors from calling you involves understanding your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and taking specific legal steps to exercise those rights. The FDCPA provides consumers with protection against abusive, deceptive, and unfair debt collection practices. Here’s how you can legally stop bill collectors from calling you: 1. Request Communication […]

Before filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, there are several important steps and requirements that you need to fulfill. These preparatory actions are crucial for ensuring that your bankruptcy process goes smoothly and that you are fully informed about the implications of your decision. Here’s a comprehensive checklist of what you need to do prior to […]

Eligibility for filing a Chapter 13 bankruptcy case is defined by several specific criteria set forth in the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. These criteria are designed to ensure that Chapter 13 is accessible to those with a regular income who can afford to make payments under a repayment plan but need the structure of bankruptcy to […]

1. Detailed Repayment Plan: The repayment plan under Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a legally-binding agreement between the debtor and their creditors, outlining how debts will be paid over the plan’s duration. This plan is meticulously crafted based on the debtor’s income, necessary living expenses, and total debt load. It prioritizes certain debts, such as back […]

A Chapter 7 bankruptcy discharge releases individual debtors from personal liability for most types of debts and prevents the creditors owed those debts from taking any collection actions against the debtor. A discharge is a permanent order that prohibits creditors from pursuing any form of collection on discharged debts, including legal action and communication with […]

Whether your employer will find out about your bankruptcy filing depends on several factors, including the type of bankruptcy you file and your employment situation. Here’s a breakdown of scenarios in which your employer might learn about your bankruptcy: Direct Notification is Unlikely In most cases, your employer will not be directly notified by the […]

Both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code can stop a repossession due to the automatic stay provision that goes into effect immediately upon filing for bankruptcy. However, the effectiveness and duration of this protection, as well as the long-term outcomes for the debtor, can vary significantly between the two chapters. Chapter […]

Filing for bankruptcy can effectively stop a foreclosure action on your home due to the automatic stay, a powerful legal provision that comes into effect the moment your bankruptcy petition is filed with the court. This stay halts most creditors, including mortgage lenders, from continuing with collection actions, including foreclosure. Here’s how filing for bankruptcy […]

Missing payments under a Chapter 13 bankruptcy plan can have serious consequences, but there are several steps and options available to manage the situation. Here’s what can happen and what you might do if you miss Chapter 13 plan payments: Immediate Consequences of Missing Payments Case Dismissal: Consistently missing payments can lead to the dismissal […]

Chapter 13 bankruptcy, often referred to as a wage earner’s plan, allows individuals with regular income to develop a plan to repay all or part of their debts over a period of three to five years. The Chapter 13 repayment plan is central to this bankruptcy process, providing a structured way for debtors to manage […]

You can file for bankruptcy without a lawyer, which is known as filing “pro se.” However, navigating the bankruptcy process without legal representation can be challenging due to the complexities of bankruptcy law and the potential risks of not fully understanding your legal rights and obligations. Here are some considerations if you’re thinking about filing […]

Filing for bankruptcy does indeed involve a legal process, which includes court involvement, but the extent to which you’ll need to appear in court depends on the specifics of your bankruptcy case. Here’s what you can generally expect regarding court appearances during the bankruptcy process: Meeting of Creditors (341 Meeting) Regardless of whether you file […]

The Chapter 13 bankruptcy process, known as a wage earner’s plan, is significantly longer than Chapter 7 due to its nature of allowing debtors to repay their debts over time. Here’s an overview of the timeline and key stages in the Chapter 13 bankruptcy process: Filing the Petition The process begins when you file your […]

The Chapter 7 bankruptcy process, often referred to as “liquidation” bankruptcy, is relatively quick compared to other types of bankruptcy, such as Chapter 13. Here’s a general timeline of how long the Chapter 7 process typically takes: Filing the Petition The bankruptcy process officially begins when you file your bankruptcy petition with the court. This […]

Whether you can keep your home, car, and personal belongings when you file for bankruptcy largely depends on the type of bankruptcy you file (Chapter 7 or Chapter 13), the laws of your state, and your specific financial situation. Here’s a general overview: Chapter 7 Bankruptcy In Chapter 7 bankruptcy, also known as liquidation bankruptcy, […]

Missing a mortgage payment during a Chapter 13 bankruptcy case can have serious implications, but there are mechanisms within the bankruptcy process to address such situations. Chapter 13 is designed to help debtors catch up on overdue payments for secured debts, like a mortgage, through a structured repayment plan. Here’s what can happen and potential […]

The Chapter 13 plan confirmation process is a critical phase in the Chapter 13 bankruptcy procedure, where the bankruptcy court evaluates and decides whether to approve the debtor’s proposed repayment plan. This process involves several steps, from the submission of the plan to the court’s final decision. Here’s a detailed look at how the Chapter […]

Missing a Chapter 13 plan payment can have significant consequences, but there are steps a debtor can take to address the situation and potentially avoid severe outcomes like dismissal of their bankruptcy case. Here’s what can happen and what steps might be taken: Immediate Consequences of Missing a Payment Trustee’s Response: If you miss a […]

The Chapter 13 plan, also known as a wage earner’s plan, allows individuals with regular income to reorganize their debts and repay them over a period of three to five years. The process involves creating a repayment plan that is submitted to and must be approved by the bankruptcy court. Here’s a detailed look at […]

The pre-filing credit counseling course is a mandatory requirement for individuals filing for bankruptcy in the United States. This requirement was established under the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005 (BAPCPA) to ensure that individuals seeking bankruptcy relief are fully informed about the process, the consequences of bankruptcy, and potential alternatives to […]

Starting the bankruptcy process involves several critical steps, designed to ensure that you make informed decisions and properly navigate the legal complexities. Whether you’re considering Chapter 7, Chapter 13, or another form of bankruptcy, following a structured approach can help you manage the process more effectively. Here’s the best way to start the bankruptcy process: […]

You can file for bankruptcy pro se, which means filing on your own without the representation of an attorney. While it is entirely legal to do so, navigating the bankruptcy process pro se can be challenging due to the complexity of bankruptcy laws and the procedural requirements of the bankruptcy court. Considerations for Filing Pro […]

When financial turmoil strikes, bankruptcy can appear as a beacon of hope, offering a path to eliminate or reorganize overwhelming debts. However, the decision to file for bankruptcy is nuanced, influenced by various factors rather than a simple matter of crossing a specific debt threshold. This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of bankruptcy filings […]

Being served with a summons and complaint for credit card debt can be a stressful experience, but there are several steps you can take to address the situation. It’s important to act promptly and consider your options carefully. Here’s what you can do: Do Not Ignore the Summons Ignoring the summons will not make the […]

Chapter 11 bankruptcy can indeed be a strategic tool to prevent a business from closing down. Often referred to as a “reorganization” bankruptcy, Chapter 11 allows a business to continue operating while it works on a plan to restructure its debts. This process is designed to help the business regain profitability and sustainability over the […]

In the face of overwhelming debt, filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy can offer a fresh start. However, the path to financial freedom comes with its own set of costs. Understanding these expenses is crucial for anyone considering this legal step towards debt relief. This article breaks down the various costs associated with filing for Chapter […]

Filing for bankruptcy can be a challenging and stressful process, but it also offers several significant benefits for individuals or businesses facing insurmountable debt. Here are some of the best things about filing for bankruptcy: Automatic Stay: As soon as you file for bankruptcy, an automatic stay is put in place. This immediately stops most […]

Yes, you can rent an apartment after filing for bankruptcy, but it may be more challenging than if you hadn’t filed. Here are some tips and considerations to help you navigate the process: Understand the Impact: Filing for bankruptcy can significantly impact your credit score, making you appear as a higher risk to landlords. They […]

Wage garnishment — where creditors take a portion of your paycheck to satisfy unpaid debts — can significantly impact your financial stability and peace of mind. However, for many grappling with this stressful situation, filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy offers a viable solution to halt wage garnishments and pave the way toward financial recovery. This […]

Discovering your car has been repossessed is a stressful experience, especially if you rely on it for daily essentials like commuting to work or transporting your family. However, if you’re facing this dilemma, there’s a potential lifeline through filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy. This legal process can not only halt further collection actions but might […]

Filing a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy is an intensive and detailed process. There is a lot to consider when going through these steps. Today, we’re here to break down how to file electronically and some steps to help along the way. Firstly, we make sure that the prior or related cases have been dismissed or discharged. […]

Finding a lawyer specializing in Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a step while managing your situation. Here are three effective methods for locating such a lawyer; 1) Seek Recommendations from Friends, Family, or Professionals: Personal recommendations can be highly reliable when it comes to finding a lawyer. If you know someone who has experienced bankruptcy, consider […]

A Tale of Hope in the Face of Financial Hardship Imagine Sarah, an individual who like others, found herself overwhelmed by credit card debt. Despite her efforts, the towering bills and relentless interest rates felt insurmountable. Sarah’s story is not uncommon; it echoes the struggles faced by many individuals. However, her journey towards recovery through […]

Dealing with high interest debt can be a hurdle that if mishandled can potentially lead to bankruptcy. This comprehensive article takes a dive into the intricacies of how high interest debt builds up and ultimately causes difficulties. Real life examples are included to paint a picture and enhance understanding. The Compounding Effect of High-Interest Debt […]

Going through the process of dealing with a repossessed vehicle can be quite stressful and challenging. However, there is some hope for individuals facing this situation as filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy can potentially provide a way to recover the repossessed auto. In this guide we will explore how Chapter 13 bankruptcy can serve as […]

Navigating the complexities of bankruptcy can feel overwhelming. Finding the right bankruptcy lawyer can make a world of difference. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to help you choose an attorney who’s well equipped to handle your case and guide you towards financial recovery. 1. Start with Research and Recommendations Begin your […]

1. Stigma and Emotional Impact Filing for bankruptcy often takes an emotional toll, acting as a major obstacle for many people. The social stigma associated with bankruptcy can trigger feelings of shame or failure. These emotional effects run deep, which can make it challenging to progress in the journey towards financial recovery. Seeking advice from […]

When faced with debt, many people turn to Chapter 7 bankruptcy as a solution. However, is Chapter 7 really the answer to all troubles? This detailed guide examines the ins and outs of Chapter 7 bankruptcy, providing insights into its advantages and disadvantages. It also explores approaches to debt relief, allowing you to make a […]

Homestead Exemption The homestead exemption can cover up to $170,825 in equity depending on the county. For example, let’s say Maria owns a home in Brooklyn valued at $500,000. She still has a mortgage balance of $350,000. In this case, her equity is $150,000, which falls within the homestead exemption limit in her county. Motor […]

The experience of dealing with credit card debt can be incredibly overwhelming, with challenges often involved. However, for individuals considering Chapter 7 bankruptcy may provide a solution to address these difficulties. Let’s explore how Chapter 7 bankruptcy can effectively tackle the three pain points associated with struggling with credit card debt; High-Interest Rates and Increasing […]

Bankruptcy cases are intricate and multifaceted, involving matters going beyond the fundamental process of declaring bankruptcy. One of these complexities is the adversary proceeding, a type of lawsuit within the framework of a bankruptcy case. This article explores the intricacies of adversary proceedings, shedding light on the issues they address and how they impact bankruptcy […]

Dealing with credit card debt can feel like a rising tide that can threaten your stability. However, by implementing these strategies and exercising discipline, it’s possible to find a way out of this debt and regain control over your finances. This comprehensive guide provides a roadmap to escape the clutches of credit card debt. Understanding […]

Dealing with the aftermath of the holiday season can pose a challenge for many individuals, especially if they have gone overboard with their spending or relied on credit cards for their holiday expenses. Here are some practical steps you can follow to manage and pay off your holiday bills: Evaluate Your Debts Begin by gathering […]

In today’s world, debt has become a common aspect of many individuals’ lives. However, freeing yourself from debt is not a decision; it opens the door to a more liberated and fulfilling existence. In this article, we will explore the three reasons why breaking free from debt is a goal that can lead to a […]

Deciding to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy can feel overwhelming; especially when there are concerns about the potential consequences. However, it’s important to understand that Chapter 7 bankruptcy serves as a lifeline for individuals who find themselves drowning in debt. In this article, we will explore a list of reasons why someone might choose to […]

Deciding to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy marks a move towards managing overwhelming debt and attaining financial relief. Before starting the process, it is crucial to undertake thoughtful actions that will ensure a smoother and more informed journey through the bankruptcy proceedings. 1. Financial Assessment: Understanding Your Financial Position Evaluate Your Finances: Begin by gathering […]

Middle-Aged Individuals (40-60): Financial Pressures: Mortgages and Housing Costs: In this age group, many still have mortgage payments or housing-related expenses. Economic downturns or housing market fluctuations can lead to financial strain and potential foreclosure risks. Medical Expenses: Health issues tend to increase with age resulting in higher medical bills. Even with insurance, copayments, deductibles, […]