Tuesday 24 June 2014

Bankruptcy: Is It The Right Answer For You?

By Mandy Cobain


Drowning in debt can be overwhelming. One day you're looking at a little mole hill; the next day you're staring down a mountain. It doesn't take long at all before the debt becomes too much to handle. By the time it gets to the point of overwhelming you, fixing it is difficult. You should read ahead for great tips on how to face and handle a bankruptcy, when your debt is insurmountable.

Millions of Americans file for bankruptcy each year because they can not pay their bills. If you are in this position, you need to be familiar with the laws in your area. Each state has their own bankruptcy laws. For instance, in some states, you can't lose your home to bankruptcy, while in other states, you can. Be aware of bankruptcy laws before filing your claim.

Ask yourself if filing for bankruptcy is truly your best option. Look into credit counseling to see if it could help you work out of your debt without bankruptcy. 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.

Be sure to remind your lawyer if it seems that some details of your situation are forgotten. You cannot expect your lawyer to remember every important detail without some reminder from you. This is your future in their hands, so don't be scared to mention it.

Know the differences between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. If you file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, all of your debts will be eliminated. Your ties with all creditors will get dissolved. Chapter 13, on the other hand, involves a five year payment period before any remaining debts are cancelled. In order to choose the right bankruptcy option, you need to know the differences between these kinds of personal bankruptcy filings.

Most bankruptcy lawyers offer a free consultation, so meet with several before you decide on one. Meet with the actual lawyer, not a paralegal or assistant, as they're not allowed to give out legal advice. It will be important to work with a bankruptcy lawyer that you feel comfortable with; a little comparison shopping will help you find the right one.

Don't hide from your friends and family while you go through bankruptcy. Going through a bankruptcy is never easy. It is often overwhelming, and not quick. Some people may feel embarrassed or feel their self-esteem has taken a beating from it. A lot of folks decide to hide themselves from the world around them until the end of the process. This is not recommended because you will only feel bad and this may cause you to feel depressed. Therefore, it is important that you continue to spend quality time with your loved ones despite, in spite of your current financial situation.

Protect your home. You do not have to lose your home in the process of a bankruptcy. Whether you get to keep your home depends on a few things, including its value and whether you have debts like a second mortgage or HELOC. If this is not the case, find out more about Homestead Exemptions you might qualify for if you meet certain financial requirements.

If your earnings are higher than your expenses then filing for bankruptcy is a waste of time and money. Sure, bankruptcy can get rid of that debt, but it comes at the price of poor credit for 7-10 years.

You should weigh every option before thinking about bankruptcy. A lawyer that specializes in bankruptcy law can help advise you of other options, such as repayment plans and reducing interest rates to relieve some of the burden. If you are about to lose your house, talk to your lender about a loan modification. Your creditors will be willing to work with you to allow you to pay off your debts. They may be able to take late fees off of your account, cut down your interest, or even extend the loan's repayment period. Creditors would rather be repaid, however slowly, than have you declare bankruptcy.

There are benefits and detriments to filing bankruptcy. It doesn't matter why you have to file, but you must be properly educated. You will have an easier time with your bankruptcy filing thanks to this article's tips. Use the above tips to see positive results when filing for bankruptcy.




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