Is Bankruptcy a Good Option?
Is Bankruptcy a Good Option?
Our Kansas City Bankruptcy Attorneys Can Help You Decide
If you live in or near Kansas City and are considering bankruptcy, you may be wondering if Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the right option in your situation. While this type of bankruptcy is generally a quicker process than Chapter 13, the other type of consumer bankruptcy, fewer people are eligible for Chapter 7 – and you are required to demonstrate that your income and assets are below a specific ceiling, which can be complicated.
Generally speaking, most who file for Chapter 7 struggle to pay their bills and have a low income. This type of bankruptcy is designed to help consumers free themselves from unsecured debt, including credit cards, department store cards, certain personal loans, utility bills, medical bills, and more.
Determining if Chapter 7 is Right For You
There are certain questions you can ask yourself in order to determine if Chapter 7 is the right option for you.
These questions include:
- If you have property you want to keep, will you have to give it up with this type of bankruptcy?
- Will enough of your debts be discharged to make filing Chapter 7 worth your while?
- Even if you decide not to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy, are creditors legally barred from seizing your income or property? Essentially, if you are “judgment proof,” filing this type of bankruptcy may not be the best choice.
You may be a good candidate for Chapter 7 bankruptcy if:
- Your credit score is low.
- Your income is insufficient to pay the monthly household bills.
- You don’t own much property; Chapter 13 provides more protection for property.
- You are sinking in medical or credit card debt.
- Creditors are calling incessantly and you are receiving collection notices in the mail.
There are certain nondischargeable debts with Chapter 7 bankruptcy, which means these debts cannot be discharged. Essentially, you will still have to pay these debts regardless of whether you file Chapter 7. These include recent income taxes due (from the last three years), alimony and child support obligations, student loans, debts incurred recently for luxury items (purchases of more than $650 to a single creditor within 90 days of filing for bankruptcy), and court judgments against you for injuries or death caused to others due to drunk driving. There are other debts a judge may determine to be nondischargeable as well.
With Chapter 7 bankruptcy, there are certain types of property that those who file must give up. These include secondary or vacation homes; a second vehicle; stocks, bonds, or other investments; family heirlooms; collections including coins or stamps; and even costly musical instruments.
Ultimately, if you have a steady income and valuable assets, Chapter 7 may not be a good fit for you. If you do not have significant income or assets, it may be the right choice. The Kansas City bankruptcy attorneys at Patton & Dean, LLC can help you decide. Call us today for a free consultation.
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