Helpful Advice For Those Facing Personal Bankruptcy

Be aware that there are two kinds of bankruptcy. There is Chapter 7, and Chapter 13. Chapter 7 can keep the filer from paying debts entirely. This option is generally for those that have debts so high or income that is so low that, they cannot afford a payment plan. Chapter 13 lets the filer get a payment plan so that they can repay all, or parts of their debt between three and five years.

You should look into and understand which debts are eligible to be written-off under bankruptcy. There are certain loans, such as student loans, that do not qualify. By understanding which debts you can write-off, you can make a better decision when trying to figure out if bankruptcy is the right choice for you.

If you are currently preparing for bankruptcy, you should get a copy of your credit history from all three of the credit bureaus. From there, you can make a list of all debts that you currently have. Also, make note of any debts you know of, which have not yet appeared on your reports. This list will be necessary when it comes time to file.

When you are about to file for bankruptcy, be sure you have all the financial information at hand. Even things that you do not use, should be listed in a bankruptcy filing. These could include, income from even small jobs, any vehicles listed in the filer's name whether or not they use them, and any pending lawsuits.

Keep your debts to a minimum prior to filing. If you are planning on filing for bankruptcy, don't run up your debts. Your recent history will be checked by judges and creditors, and if it is deemed that you are trying to cheat the system, you may not be able to wipe out those debts. You will be viewed most favorably, if you can demonstrate that you have changed your spending habits.

If you live in a community property state, file bankruptcy jointly with your spouse. Your spouse is considered liable for half of the debts incurred during the marriage, so he or she could still get harassed by creditors if you don't file a joint bankruptcy application. If you both file, however, you will both be safe from creditors.

Watch your lawyer fill out your paperwork carefully. They, most likely, have multiple cases going on at the same time and may not be able to keep up with every detail of your case. Be sure to carefully read all of that paperwork, in order to make sure that everything is filled out correctly.

Be selective. You may have learned that you must continue to pay for auto and home loans, and to stop paying your credit card bills immediately. That money could be put to much better use somewhere else. Continuing payments on these accounts is wasted money. Apply it to the lines of credit that you plan to keep.

As noted earlier, the current economic climate keeps more people in a constant state of struggle, and many of them are turning to bankruptcy. If you decide that this option is the best one for you, hopefully this article has provided you with helpful guidance you can use to face your financial future and make positive changes.

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