Important Information To Know Before Filing Bankruptcy
Important Information To Know Before Filing Bankruptcy
One of the most difficult financial decisions a person may have to make in their life is to decide to file for personal bankruptcy. With such a big decision, you should be sure to know as much about the process as possible. Use this information to help you know if it is the right course of action to take.
Bankruptcy is a very complicated, and scary process. Usually anyone who applies for it, is at the end of ones rope. To help you feel more in control of things, be sure to educate yourself about the entire process before making your decision. Learn the requirements you have to meet before applying.Learn about what the process will be when you do apply.Finally, learn how your future will be affected by it after you file.
Many people do not know that student loans are not dischargeable debt under bankruptcy laws. Do not go into your bankruptcy thinking that your student loans will be discharged, because only in cases of extreme hardship are they considered. If the job you received from pursuing your degree will never allow you to pay off your debt, you may have a chance, but it is highly unlikely.
If filing bankruptcy is in your future, don't waste any savings you may have attempting to pay off your debts. Avoid ever touching retirement funds until you have no other choice. Although you may need to tap into your savings, you should not use up all of it right now and jeopardize the financial security of your future.
Do not get an attorney for your bankruptcy when you are feeling overwhelmed. You have got to be levelheaded when you hire a lawyer. After all, you will be expected to pay him/her for services. Find out upfront what you will have to pay any lawyer before you hire one.
It can be difficult to obtain unsecured credit once you have filed for bankruptcy. If you find that to be the situation, consider requesting secured cards. This will allow you to start building a good credit history while minimizing the bank's risk. In time, you might be granted unsecured credit again.
If you have late payments on credit accounts or accounts that have been sent to collections, you are probably already aware of how insistent creditors can be. After you have filed for bankruptcy, you no longer need to endure the threatening and continuous phone calls from creditors and collection agencies. All you must do is refer them to your attorney who will confirm the bankruptcy for them. After this, it is illegal for creditors to harass you in any way.
Know your rights when it comes to filing for personal bankruptcy. The last thing you need now, is a hassle from the legal professional that you hire to represent you. A few years ago, the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act was made into law, in order to protect financially strapped consumers from being ripped off. Beware and be informed!
Now that you have been provided with some useful information about personal bankruptcy, carefully weigh your options. Making this decision is going to impact your life for several years. If you have considered all of the other options, carefully follow the correct steps to file for personal bankruptcy and prepare for what changes it will bring.