Bankruptcy is something that may scare some people, but it’s actually a very helpful legal protection. There are various kinds of bankruptcy, with both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 being used by consumers. Chapter 7 bankruptcy, which you may know as liquidation bankruptcy, and Chapter 13 bankruptcy, a wage earner’s plan, can both help you get out of debt and back on track financially.
You may never have thought that you’d end up in a position where you needed to consider bankruptcy. You may still be trying to find alternatives. However, it is probably time to talk to your attorney about bankruptcy when:
- You are missing monthly payments
- Your credit score has decreased significantly
- You’re dealing with creditors calling around the clock
- You are at risk of wage garnishments
- You are at risk of losing your home to foreclosure
The goal of bankruptcy is to help you get back on track financially. In a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, that may mean liquidating any non-exempted assets to pay back creditors to the best of your ability. Then, the remaining debts may be discharged.
In a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you can enter into a monthly payment plan that consolidates your debts into affordable payments. Depending on the plan, you will find yourself out of debt within three to five years of starting the bankruptcy program.
If you are in debt, consider these options. Your attorney can talk to you about them and if they would be right for your financial situation. Every situation is different, but bankruptcy or other debt-relief options could help you get out of debt for good.
