The Rigid “Means Test” Makes the Timing of Your Bankruptcy Filing Critical
Waiting just one day to file your Chapter 7 bankruptcy case can make qualifying for it much easier—or much harder! How could such a small delay make such a big difference? One of the main goals behind the huge amendment to the bankruptcy law in 2005 was to force more people to pay a portion […]
Married Couples’ Protection from the IRS under Chapter 7 and Chapter 13
Filing bankruptcy with or without your spouse, and under Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, may affect what protections you each receive.
Stepping Over the “Means Test” Hurdle Without Breaking Your Stride
Are you among the large majority of people whose income easily qualifies them for Chapter 7 “straight bankruptcy”? You can find out right here and now. As you’ve likely heard, a few years ago Congress passed a major set of changes to the bankruptcy laws intended to make it harder for some people to file […]
The Discharge of Debts for Married Couples in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13
Filing bankruptcy with or without your spouse affects the discharge of debts you each receive, and also affects whether you file under Chapter 7 or 13.
The “Automatic Stay” for Married Couples in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13
Filing bankruptcy with or without your spouse affects the protection from creditors each of you receives, and also affects whether you file under Chapter 7 or 13.
In a Chapter 7 Case, “The Only Thing We Have to Fear is Fear Itself”
There’s a lot you can do to help make your “straight bankruptcy” Chapter 7 a straightforward one, but one thing you can’t control is your creditors’ reactions to it. You know that creditors can try to prevent you from discharging (legally writing off) your debts, so naturally you worry about this. Here’s why you shouldn’t […]
Married Couples in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13
Bankruptcy law allows married couples to file bankruptcy separately or together. That option comes with consequences, which can also effect whether you file under Chapter 7 or 13.
When Chapter 7s Are Not So Simple
The goal of most Chapter 7 cases is to get in and get out—file the petition, go to a simple 10-minute hearing with your attorney a month later, and two months later get your debts written off. Mission accomplished, end of story. And usually that’s how it goes. So when it doesn’t go that way, […]
Your Vehicle in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13
Bankruptcy can protect your car or truck. Both Chapter 7 and 13 can, but which do you need?
Home Sweet Home in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13
Bankruptcy protects your home. Both Chapter 7 and 13 do so, but which is better for you?