Filing for bankruptcy must not be taken lightly. Look through the suggestions this article has to offer so you understand the ideas you should be thinking about when it comes to filing for bankruptcy. Try to learn everything you can before making any decisions.
Although you can find many bankruptcy attorneys listed in your local Yellow Pages or online, it’s best if you can find one through the personal recommendation of a friend, family member or acquaintance. There are various companies that prey on the financially desperate, so you need to find someone you can trust to ensure the process goes smoothly,
Do not give up hope. If you’ve had collateral, such as a car, electronics, or jewelry repossessed for non-payment, you might be able to recover the property when you file for bankruptcy. If the repossession occurred within 90 days from your filing date, it is possible that some of your property can be returned to you. Get the advice of a qualified attorney who can advise you about ways to accomplish this.
Chapter 13
Make sure that you understand the difference between Chapter 13 bankruptcy and Chapter 7 bankruptcy. If you file using Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you will get all your debts eliminated. Any ties you have concerning creditors will definitely be dissolved. If however you enter Chapter 13, you will go into a five year repayment program prior to your debts dissolving entirely. It is worth while to take your time to research both types of bankruptcy to decide which option works best for you, and your financial situation.
Be sure you know what the difference between Chapter 13 and Chapter 7 bankruptcy is. Take the time to find out about each one online, and look at the advantages and disadvantages of each. If anything you see is unclear or doesn’t make sense, go over it again with your attorney before making the final filing decision.
Don’t hide from your friends and family while you go through bankruptcy. Going through a bankruptcy can be an excruciating experience. It can take a long time, take a great emotional toll and cause people to feel embarrassed and defeated. It is not uncommon for a person to feel the need to pull away from loved ones during the process. Isolating yourself from your loved ones can lead to feelings of depression. Make it a point to catch yourself if you feel yourself pulling away from others. Tell others that you would like to do some enjoyable things together while you go through bankruptcy process, then do it.
If you are planning to file bankruptcy, avoid taking large cash advances from credit cards thinking that the debt will be erased. Doing so, is a type of fraud that may result in your having to pay back all money advanced from credit card accounts in the months just prior to your bankruptcy.
Don’t wait when you’re thinking about filing for bankruptcy and have been for a while. It is absolutely difficult to admit you require help. On the other hand, the longer you delay, the more debt you rack up. If you are not sure, gather all of your information and spend a little time speaking with a bankruptcy attorney; their experience can help you make the right decision.
As you can probably see, filing bankruptcy does not happen quickly or easily. Many issues need to be handled the right way. If you apply this advice, you are certain to be prepared when bankruptcy rears its ugly head.