The sheer volume of information available on the topic of personal bankruptcy can leave those contemplating filing a petition, feeling overwhelmed and without hope. However, by taking some time to separate relevant facts from unnecessary discussion, it is possible to gain a comprehensive understanding of how bankruptcy protection can help you. By using the tips and ideas in this article, you will have what it takes to proceed confidently toward a fresh financial start.
Filing for bankruptcy does not wipe out all of your debts. It does not stop you from having to pay alimony, child support, student loans, tax debt and most types of secured credit. You will not be allowed to file if these are the only types of debt that you have on record.
Make sure that you have all of your essential financial information and documentation in hand before you file for bankruptcy. Your bankruptcy attorney will need access to your financial information and other important documents, in order to complete your petition. This information will include: a detailed list of your monthly expenses, information about any real estate that you own, bank statements and any documentations pertaining to the ownership of a house or automobile.
If you are facing a necessary filing for bankruptcy, take a break from your troubles. After seeking reliable legal advice but before signing on the dotted line, give yourself a few days to think it all over, make sure you have disclosed everything and that you have selected the best options. Bankruptcy is permanent and you will live with consequences for a long time to come.
If you are planning to file for bankruptcy in the near future, don’t charge up your credit cards thinking that you won’t have to pay back the debt. In many states, there are rules about how much credit card debt and what kind, may be discharged in a bankruptcy. For instance, if you make purchases for luxury items, such as an expensive new TV, within 6 months prior to filing, you may be obligated to pay that amount back. On the other hand, if you used your credit card to purchase groceries, or other necessities, the rules may be different. Be sure to ask your attorney for advice.
After filing for bankruptcy, sit down and evaluate all your assets. It’s always a good idea to sit down and think things through. Be sure to take note of your assets. Make a list and carefully consider your situation. This will come in handy when planning for your financial future.
Don’t let bill collectors mislead you. When you discuss bankruptcy with some bill collectors, they may tell you that bankruptcy will not affect them, and you will still have to pay them. They are not being honest, all of your bills can be covered depending on the bankruptcy option that you file.
Remember you still have to pay taxes on your debts. A lot of people don’t realize that even if their debts are discharged in the bankruptcy, they are still responsible to the IRS. The IRS usually does not allow complete forgiveness, although payment plans are common. Make sure to find out what is covered and what is not.
Keep your head up. Getting depressed about the situation you are in will not help. Many times, bankruptcy seems like it is going to be bad, but often, it is the best thing you can do at the time. You will have a fresh start and a better financial future, if you learn from your mistakes.
You should understand all that filing for personal bankruptcy implies before you consider this option. You should consider the type of debt that has caused you to consider filing. There are many debts that filing for bankruptcy will help eliminate, but there others that will remain such as student loans and funds that are owed to the IRS.
In recent years, the topic of personal bankruptcy has taken on increased significance, as a result of the financial crisis. An incredible amount of discussion and debate has centered around how, when and why an individual consumer might consider filing a bankruptcy petition. Investing the time necessary to sift through the noise and educate yourself about the process can be the smartest financial decision you can make. Apply the concepts in this article to your circumstances, and you may be able to begin anew with a clean financial slate.