Considering Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

I don’t know a thing about you but I’ll bet that you don’t know much about bankruptcy laws. Well, if you haven’t known it yet, Chapter 13 is one of the many types of bankruptcy. Chapter 13 however, is no available for any situations. It is only available for certain situation and only for the best qualified.

Basic Outline of Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

Chapter 13 can be filed by individuals. It can only be filed by an individual who has a steady and secure source of income.

A Chapter 13 is a repayment plan. Debts are not wiped clean. Instead the individual agrees to a plan in court that established repayment of debts. Creditors also must agree to the plan, which is based on the individual’s income.

Steps in Filing Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

So how do you go about filing for bankruptcy? First and foremost, you need to see a credit counselor to assess your financial status before the paperwork can begin.

In the process, your income and debts are being looked at. A payment plan is then devised based according to your income. In order to continue with the repayment plan, both you and your creditors have to agree with the plan.

You will have to file a lot of paperwork and attend court hearings. It is often smart to have a lawyer who can help you with negotiations with creditors. The process can be frustrating, but you are under the watchful eye of the court and also protected by the court, so you have nothing to worry about. The court will help you to reach a repayment plan you can live with.

This can take some time to finalize but in the end you are protected and your creditors are getting paid.

Things to Know About Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

Have you ever wondered why you should file a Chapter 13? It is just a repayment plan, so why don’t you just consolidate your debts instead? Well, the answer is you can get the court’s involvement in the process.

As mentioned above, you should file for Chapter 13 instead of debt consolidation because the court can protect you. Other than that, you will also have more options. The court will ensure that you are able to afford the repayment plan and thus treated like a willing party.

Additionally, once you file for bankruptcy you are protected. Creditors can no longer pursue collections. That means you may be able to protect your assets and prevent court cases.

Of course, as with bankruptcy in general, it is always best to avoid it if possible. You can start with trying to get creditors to work with you and then only move to bankruptcy if you are feeling threatened with losing assets and court proceedings.

If you are declared a bankrupt, it means that you have problems in taking loans in the future. Worst still, the bankruptcy record will stick with you for up to 10 years! Get to know how you can avoid Bankruptcy and find out more about Chapter 7 Exemptions

Source: BANKRUPTCY