What Happens When You File Bankruptcy?
With the COVID-19 relief ending, you may be discovering that your debt obligations are still there whether or not you are in a better position to deal with them. In fact, they may be looming larger than ever before. If that is the situation you find yourself in, you may be seriously considering filing for bankruptcy. In this blog, we’ll explore what actually happens when you do that. You want to have all the information and understand all the implications before proceeding.
Bankruptcy Stops All Collection Activities
When your debt is crippling, it comes with collection agents working relentlessly to extract money you don’t have. Letters that threaten dire consequences, phone calls that badger you at all times of day or night, these tactics can make you feel hunted, haunted, or both. The moment you file bankruptcy, all collection activities must stop.
Bankruptcy Eliminates or Decreases Debt
With bankruptcy, all your unsecured debt is either eliminated or reduced. Most people file Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, and with that type, you don’t need to worry about any sort of repayment. The entire process takes between 3 to 6 months, and then your debt has disappeared. Some people choose Chapter 13 Bankruptcy, and with that type, you do repay a portion of your debts, determined with the court. This process lasts from 3 to 5 years. In both cases, your debts are cleared, once and for all.
Bankruptcy Avoids Draining Resources
The bill collectors don’t care where you get the money to pay them, and you may be tempted to take it from your retirement funds, social security or other protected assets. When you declare bankruptcy, not all your assets are liable for your debt repayment. Social security and retirement funds are protected. Your house and car are too. Filing bankruptcy allows you to retain those protected assets while getting rid of the debt.
Bankruptcy And Your Credit Cards
While bankruptcy eliminates your debt, it also eliminates your current credit cards. Not having credit cards makes some things more difficult. For instance, car rental agencies usually require credit cards; hotels often do too. It also means that unexpected large expenses cannot be paid with a credit card. There are credit cards specifically for those with negative credit histories; the terms are not favorable and credit limits are carefully controlled.
Bankruptcy And Your Credit Score
Bankruptcy remains on your credit record for 7 to 10 years, and naturally it lowers your credit score. It can make getting an auto loan or other kind of loan more difficult. It is important to remember, though, that if your repayment history has been poor and your debt to asset ratio is high, your credit score may already be quite low. In that case, bankruptcy may have a smaller impact than you suppose.
Bankruptcy Can Help Your Mental Health
Often unspoken, the negative impact on your mental health when you have significant financial issues is undeniable. Filing for bankruptcy shifts all of that stress and tension. Instead of facing your money problems alone, you will be working with professionals dedicated to helping people in your situation. Over 6000 Wisconsinites have declared bankruptcy already this year (January through August 2021). The experts at Burr Law can guide you through the process step by step, and you can breathe a sigh of relief.
Bankruptcy can give you a clean slate, though it is not without difficulties and dangers. If you are considering bankruptcy, it is vital that you consult with experts. The professionals at Burr Law can evaluate your particular circumstances and advise you on the best way forward..
