Chapter 13 of the Bankruptcy Code contains many useful provisions that are not available to Chapter 7 debtors. One of the most useful is the ability to cram-down an over-secured auto loan to the actual market value of the vehicle, and pay the auto loan over the duration of the Chapter 13 bankruptcy plan.
The Bankruptcy Code recognizes that a lien is only secured to the extent of the value of the property. If the amount of the lien is more than the value of the property, the debt is separated into two parts: secured and unsecured. During a Chapter 13, the amount of the loan that exceeds the value of the vehicle can be stripped away.
For instance, if your vehicle is worth $10,000, but the secured auto loan balance is $13,000, the bankruptcy will separate the auto loan into a secured debt of $10,000 and an unsecured debt of $3,000. The secured portion must be paid in full during the Chapter 13 case, and the unsecured $3,000 amount will be paid along with other unsecured creditors (usually pennies on the dollar, if anything).
Another potential benefit to the Chapter 13 debtor is that the contract terms can be modified during the Chapter 13 repayment period. In some cases the repayment period can be lengthened or contract interest rate can be lowered by the bankruptcy court. Changing the contractual terms can make a significant difference in the ability of the debtor to repay the debt.
If you are struggling with debts you cannot pay and own a vehicle that is worth less than you owe, you may be eligible to reduce your principle and your monthly payment on your vehicle loan. Speak with an experienced bankruptcy attorney and discuss how a Chapter 13 bankruptcy can help you reduce your debt and make your finances work for you and your family.
Showing posts with label Chapter 13. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chapter 13. Show all posts
Friday, November 5, 2010
Monday, October 25, 2010
How Much Debt Do I Need To File Bankruptcy?
There is no qualifying minimum debt limit for an individual bankruptcy. Debtors who otherwise qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy can file with any amount of secured or unsecured debt. The purpose of a Chapter 7 bankruptcy is to provide the debtor a fresh start without the burden of overwhelming debt. In some cases this debt may be objectively very small (perhaps only a few thousand dollars), but it be relatively very large to a person on a fixed income from retirement, disability, or otherwise.
In cases where the amount of dischargeable debt is objectively small, both the bankruptcy attorney and the client should take care to consider all of the consequences of filing. First, bankruptcy is not cheap. There is a court filing fee, a credit counseling fee, a personal financial management course fee, and, of course, your attorney’s fees. In some extreme cases some or all of these fees may be waived. Second, a bankruptcy filing can significantly impair the debtor’s ability to borrow money and obtain credit, at least for the short term. Finally, non-exempt property may be at risk. For many poor debtors, these consequences have little, if any, affect. Many poor debtors seek bankruptcy protection simply to rid themselves of the nuisance of debt collection.
While there is no minimum amount of debt required to file a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, the bankruptcy laws set a ceiling on the amount of secured and unsecured debt a person can have in a Chapter 13 case. These limits as of April 1, 2010 are $1,081,400 for secured debt and $360,475 for unsecured debt. The Chapter 13 debt limits adjust every three years. Cases that exceed these limits are ineligible for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, but may qualify under Chapters 7 or 11. There is currently some confusion in our courts as to how these debt limits apply in a joint husband and wife Chapter 13 case. Some courts will separately consider debt that is individual and not joint, effectively increasing the Chapter 13 limits.
An experienced bankruptcy attorney can evaluate your case and discuss any issues surrounding your case. Whatever the amount of your debt, if you are unable to pay, the federal bankruptcy laws can offer you substantial relief. Speak with an experienced bankruptcy attorney and discover how the federal bankruptcy laws can help you.
In cases where the amount of dischargeable debt is objectively small, both the bankruptcy attorney and the client should take care to consider all of the consequences of filing. First, bankruptcy is not cheap. There is a court filing fee, a credit counseling fee, a personal financial management course fee, and, of course, your attorney’s fees. In some extreme cases some or all of these fees may be waived. Second, a bankruptcy filing can significantly impair the debtor’s ability to borrow money and obtain credit, at least for the short term. Finally, non-exempt property may be at risk. For many poor debtors, these consequences have little, if any, affect. Many poor debtors seek bankruptcy protection simply to rid themselves of the nuisance of debt collection.
While there is no minimum amount of debt required to file a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, the bankruptcy laws set a ceiling on the amount of secured and unsecured debt a person can have in a Chapter 13 case. These limits as of April 1, 2010 are $1,081,400 for secured debt and $360,475 for unsecured debt. The Chapter 13 debt limits adjust every three years. Cases that exceed these limits are ineligible for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, but may qualify under Chapters 7 or 11. There is currently some confusion in our courts as to how these debt limits apply in a joint husband and wife Chapter 13 case. Some courts will separately consider debt that is individual and not joint, effectively increasing the Chapter 13 limits.
An experienced bankruptcy attorney can evaluate your case and discuss any issues surrounding your case. Whatever the amount of your debt, if you are unable to pay, the federal bankruptcy laws can offer you substantial relief. Speak with an experienced bankruptcy attorney and discover how the federal bankruptcy laws can help you.
How Much Debt Do I Need To File Bankruptcy?
There is no qualifying minimum debt limit for an individual bankruptcy. Debtors who otherwise qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy can file with any amount of secured or unsecured debt. The purpose of a Chapter 7 bankruptcy is to provide the debtor a fresh start without the burden of overwhelming debt. In some cases this debt may be objectively very small (perhaps only a few thousand dollars), but it be relatively very large to a person on a fixed income from retirement, disability, or otherwise.
In cases where the amount of dischargeable debt is objectively small, both the bankruptcy attorney and the client should take care to consider all of the consequences of filing. First, bankruptcy is not cheap. There is a court filing fee, a credit counseling fee, a personal financial management course fee, and, of course, your attorney’s fees. In some extreme cases some or all of these fees may be waived. Second, a bankruptcy filing can significantly impair the debtor’s ability to borrow money and obtain credit, at least for the short term. Finally, non-exempt property may be at risk. For many poor debtors, these consequences have little, if any, affect. Many poor debtors seek bankruptcy protection simply to rid themselves of the nuisance of debt collection.
While there is no minimum amount of debt required to file a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, the bankruptcy laws set a ceiling on the amount of secured and unsecured debt a person can have in a Chapter 13 case. These limits as of April 1, 2010 are $1,081,400 for secured debt and $360,475 for unsecured debt. The Chapter 13 debt limits adjust every three years. Cases that exceed these limits are ineligible for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, but may qualify under Chapters 7 or 11. There is currently some confusion in our courts as to how these debt limits apply in a joint husband and wife Chapter 13 case. Some courts will separately consider debt that is individual and not joint, effectively increasing the Chapter 13 limits.
An experienced bankruptcy attorney can evaluate your case and discuss any issues surrounding your case. Whatever the amount of your debt, if you are unable to pay, the federal bankruptcy laws can offer you substantial relief. Speak with an experienced bankruptcy attorney and discover how the federal bankruptcy laws can help you.
In cases where the amount of dischargeable debt is objectively small, both the bankruptcy attorney and the client should take care to consider all of the consequences of filing. First, bankruptcy is not cheap. There is a court filing fee, a credit counseling fee, a personal financial management course fee, and, of course, your attorney’s fees. In some extreme cases some or all of these fees may be waived. Second, a bankruptcy filing can significantly impair the debtor’s ability to borrow money and obtain credit, at least for the short term. Finally, non-exempt property may be at risk. For many poor debtors, these consequences have little, if any, affect. Many poor debtors seek bankruptcy protection simply to rid themselves of the nuisance of debt collection.
While there is no minimum amount of debt required to file a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, the bankruptcy laws set a ceiling on the amount of secured and unsecured debt a person can have in a Chapter 13 case. These limits as of April 1, 2010 are $1,081,400 for secured debt and $360,475 for unsecured debt. The Chapter 13 debt limits adjust every three years. Cases that exceed these limits are ineligible for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, but may qualify under Chapters 7 or 11. There is currently some confusion in our courts as to how these debt limits apply in a joint husband and wife Chapter 13 case. Some courts will separately consider debt that is individual and not joint, effectively increasing the Chapter 13 limits.
An experienced bankruptcy attorney can evaluate your case and discuss any issues surrounding your case. Whatever the amount of your debt, if you are unable to pay, the federal bankruptcy laws can offer you substantial relief. Speak with an experienced bankruptcy attorney and discover how the federal bankruptcy laws can help you.
Monday, September 27, 2010
If Debtor Dies During Bankruptcy
When a debtor dies during a pending bankruptcy case, the case may or may not be dismissed depending on a few factors. The first factor is the bankruptcy chapter that controls the case. For a Chapter 7 case, the death of the debtor does not terminate the bankruptcy. For an individual bankruptcy case filed under Chapters 11, 12, or 13, the death of the debtor will affect the bankruptcy case, but does not necessarily terminate it.
During a Chapter 7 bankruptcy the court will continue the bankruptcy proceedings despite the death of the debtor. The reasoning is that all of the debtor’s assets, exemptions, and debts are determined at the time the case was filed, and the trustee is now in charge of liquidating any non-exempt assets. The participation of a debtor is not necessary. Bankruptcy Rule 1016 directs that “the estate shall be administered and the case concluded in the same manner, so far as possible, as though the death or incompetency had not occurred.”
Death of the debtor during a Chapter 11, 12 or 13 case poses different complications. Bankruptcy Rule 1016 states that “the case may be dismissed; or if further administration is possible and in the best interest of the parties, the case may proceed and be concluded in the same manner, so far as possible, as though the death or incompetency had not occurred.” While dismissal of the bankruptcy is common in Chapter 11, 12, or 13 cases, the trustee may seek to continue the case per Rule 1016, the case could be converted to a Chapter 7, or the executor or administrator of the decedent’s estate may petition the bankruptcy court for a hardship discharge.
Since the bankruptcy discharge will only prohibit collection against the debtor personally, the question becomes, how will the debtor’s discharge affect the heirs to the estate? In most cases, an unsecured debt that is not a joint obligation will not pass to the decedent’s heirs. However, a creditor could obtain a judgment against the deceased debtor’s estate and attempt to collect from any available property. Consequently, the discharge is important to provide peace of mind and avoid any potential debt litigation or collection action.
The federal bankruptcy laws are very broad in scope and provide for benefits even under unusual circumstances, such as the death of a bankruptcy debtor. If you are struggling with debt you cannot afford to pay, speak with an experienced attorney and discover how the bankruptcy laws can help.
During a Chapter 7 bankruptcy the court will continue the bankruptcy proceedings despite the death of the debtor. The reasoning is that all of the debtor’s assets, exemptions, and debts are determined at the time the case was filed, and the trustee is now in charge of liquidating any non-exempt assets. The participation of a debtor is not necessary. Bankruptcy Rule 1016 directs that “the estate shall be administered and the case concluded in the same manner, so far as possible, as though the death or incompetency had not occurred.”
Death of the debtor during a Chapter 11, 12 or 13 case poses different complications. Bankruptcy Rule 1016 states that “the case may be dismissed; or if further administration is possible and in the best interest of the parties, the case may proceed and be concluded in the same manner, so far as possible, as though the death or incompetency had not occurred.” While dismissal of the bankruptcy is common in Chapter 11, 12, or 13 cases, the trustee may seek to continue the case per Rule 1016, the case could be converted to a Chapter 7, or the executor or administrator of the decedent’s estate may petition the bankruptcy court for a hardship discharge.
Since the bankruptcy discharge will only prohibit collection against the debtor personally, the question becomes, how will the debtor’s discharge affect the heirs to the estate? In most cases, an unsecured debt that is not a joint obligation will not pass to the decedent’s heirs. However, a creditor could obtain a judgment against the deceased debtor’s estate and attempt to collect from any available property. Consequently, the discharge is important to provide peace of mind and avoid any potential debt litigation or collection action.
The federal bankruptcy laws are very broad in scope and provide for benefits even under unusual circumstances, such as the death of a bankruptcy debtor. If you are struggling with debt you cannot afford to pay, speak with an experienced attorney and discover how the bankruptcy laws can help.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Can One Spouse File Bankruptcy Alone?
While it is common for a husband and wife to file a joint bankruptcy, in some cases it may be beneficial for only one spouse to file. When one spouse files for bankruptcy protection, the other spouse is not automatically joined into the case. The husband and wife are treated separately and individually, although there are some consequences to the non-filing spouse, both positive and negative.
Filing separately can have several advantages to a husband and wife who have separate property and debts. It is especially appropriate when there is a large debt that only one spouse is liable to pay, and the parties are able to either protect their marital property through exemptions or by virtue of the non-filing spouse holding the property as non-joint property. Property in which the debtor has no ownership interest is generally not property of the debtor’s bankruptcy estate and beyond the reach of the bankruptcy court.
While the bankruptcy automatic stay will stop collection action against the debtor, this protection does not apply to protect a non-debtor. In a Chapter 7 case, a creditor may still collect on a joint debt from the non-filing spouse. In a Chapter 13 case, the bankruptcy code imposes a co-debtor stay that generally prohibits collection on joint debts during the bankruptcy.
Likewise, the discharge order at the end of the case will only apply to bankruptcy debtor. The discharge does not prevent collection on any joint debt from the non-filing spouse. Most joint debts are the result of a contract or the agreement of the husband and wife to pay a debt, however in some limited cases a statute or other circumstances may make both parties liable for a debt. If you have any questions concerning whether you or your spouse is liable for a debt, consult with your attorney.
Property may be protected during the property through state or federal law exemptions, or the property may be excluded from the bankruptcy estate when the bankruptcy debtor has no ownership interest. Property that is held jointly and cannot be protected by exemption laws may be at risk for turn-over to pay creditors in a Chapter 7 case.
The decision to file bankruptcy for one or both spouses can require a complex analysis of the separate and joint property and debts of each spouse. Every case is different and while some cases gain a benefit from filing jointly, other cases receive a greater benefit from a separate bankruptcy. If you are in a situation where a separate bankruptcy filing may benefit your family, consult with an experienced bankruptcy attorney and discuss your options. The federal bankruptcy laws offer many choices for individuals needing debt relief and your attorney can help you decide the best financial decision for your family.
Filing separately can have several advantages to a husband and wife who have separate property and debts. It is especially appropriate when there is a large debt that only one spouse is liable to pay, and the parties are able to either protect their marital property through exemptions or by virtue of the non-filing spouse holding the property as non-joint property. Property in which the debtor has no ownership interest is generally not property of the debtor’s bankruptcy estate and beyond the reach of the bankruptcy court.
While the bankruptcy automatic stay will stop collection action against the debtor, this protection does not apply to protect a non-debtor. In a Chapter 7 case, a creditor may still collect on a joint debt from the non-filing spouse. In a Chapter 13 case, the bankruptcy code imposes a co-debtor stay that generally prohibits collection on joint debts during the bankruptcy.
Likewise, the discharge order at the end of the case will only apply to bankruptcy debtor. The discharge does not prevent collection on any joint debt from the non-filing spouse. Most joint debts are the result of a contract or the agreement of the husband and wife to pay a debt, however in some limited cases a statute or other circumstances may make both parties liable for a debt. If you have any questions concerning whether you or your spouse is liable for a debt, consult with your attorney.
Property may be protected during the property through state or federal law exemptions, or the property may be excluded from the bankruptcy estate when the bankruptcy debtor has no ownership interest. Property that is held jointly and cannot be protected by exemption laws may be at risk for turn-over to pay creditors in a Chapter 7 case.
The decision to file bankruptcy for one or both spouses can require a complex analysis of the separate and joint property and debts of each spouse. Every case is different and while some cases gain a benefit from filing jointly, other cases receive a greater benefit from a separate bankruptcy. If you are in a situation where a separate bankruptcy filing may benefit your family, consult with an experienced bankruptcy attorney and discuss your options. The federal bankruptcy laws offer many choices for individuals needing debt relief and your attorney can help you decide the best financial decision for your family.
Can One Spouse File Bankruptcy Alone?
While it is common for a husband and wife to file a joint bankruptcy, in some cases it may be beneficial for only one spouse to file. When one spouse files for bankruptcy protection, the other spouse is not automatically joined into the case. The husband and wife are treated separately and individually, although there are some consequences to the non-filing spouse, both positive and negative.
Filing separately can have several advantages to a husband and wife who have separate property and debts. It is especially appropriate when there is a large debt that only one spouse is liable to pay, and the parties are able to either protect their marital property through exemptions or by virtue of the non-filing spouse holding the property as non-joint property. Property in which the debtor has no ownership interest is generally not property of the debtor’s bankruptcy estate and beyond the reach of the bankruptcy court.
While the bankruptcy automatic stay will stop collection action against the debtor, this protection does not apply to protect a non-debtor. In a Chapter 7 case, a creditor may still collect on a joint debt from the non-filing spouse. In a Chapter 13 case, the bankruptcy code imposes a co-debtor stay that generally prohibits collection on joint debts during the bankruptcy.
Likewise, the discharge order at the end of the case will only apply to bankruptcy debtor. The discharge does not prevent collection on any joint debt from the non-filing spouse. Most joint debts are the result of a contract or the agreement of the husband and wife to pay a debt, however in some limited cases a statute or other circumstances may make both parties liable for a debt. If you have any questions concerning whether you or your spouse is liable for a debt, consult with your attorney.
Property may be protected during the property through state or federal law exemptions, or the property may be excluded from the bankruptcy estate when the bankruptcy debtor has no ownership interest. Property that is held jointly and cannot be protected by exemption laws may be at risk for turn-over to pay creditors in a Chapter 7 case.
The decision to file bankruptcy for one or both spouses can require a complex analysis of the separate and joint property and debts of each spouse. Every case is different and while some cases gain a benefit from filing jointly, other cases receive a greater benefit from a separate bankruptcy. If you are in a situation where a separate bankruptcy filing may benefit your family, consult with an experienced bankruptcy attorney and discuss your options. The federal bankruptcy laws offer many choices for individuals needing debt relief and your attorney can help you decide the best financial decision for your family.
Filing separately can have several advantages to a husband and wife who have separate property and debts. It is especially appropriate when there is a large debt that only one spouse is liable to pay, and the parties are able to either protect their marital property through exemptions or by virtue of the non-filing spouse holding the property as non-joint property. Property in which the debtor has no ownership interest is generally not property of the debtor’s bankruptcy estate and beyond the reach of the bankruptcy court.
While the bankruptcy automatic stay will stop collection action against the debtor, this protection does not apply to protect a non-debtor. In a Chapter 7 case, a creditor may still collect on a joint debt from the non-filing spouse. In a Chapter 13 case, the bankruptcy code imposes a co-debtor stay that generally prohibits collection on joint debts during the bankruptcy.
Likewise, the discharge order at the end of the case will only apply to bankruptcy debtor. The discharge does not prevent collection on any joint debt from the non-filing spouse. Most joint debts are the result of a contract or the agreement of the husband and wife to pay a debt, however in some limited cases a statute or other circumstances may make both parties liable for a debt. If you have any questions concerning whether you or your spouse is liable for a debt, consult with your attorney.
Property may be protected during the property through state or federal law exemptions, or the property may be excluded from the bankruptcy estate when the bankruptcy debtor has no ownership interest. Property that is held jointly and cannot be protected by exemption laws may be at risk for turn-over to pay creditors in a Chapter 7 case.
The decision to file bankruptcy for one or both spouses can require a complex analysis of the separate and joint property and debts of each spouse. Every case is different and while some cases gain a benefit from filing jointly, other cases receive a greater benefit from a separate bankruptcy. If you are in a situation where a separate bankruptcy filing may benefit your family, consult with an experienced bankruptcy attorney and discuss your options. The federal bankruptcy laws offer many choices for individuals needing debt relief and your attorney can help you decide the best financial decision for your family.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Discoveries While Completing Expense Statement
The Bankruptcy Code requires the individual debtor to file a petition and a series of financial reports with the bankruptcy court. Among these reports is a statement of income identified as “Schedule J.” For many debtors, it may be the first time, or a first time in a long time, that the families’ monthly expenses have been written down and examined. Usually there are surprising discoveries while completing this schedule.
Several monthly expense items are easily determined. Fixed monthly expenses like your mortgage or rent, auto loan payments, day care, insurance premiums, and cell phone bills are easy to identify. Fixed monthly expenses are predictable and do not generally fluctuate from month to month.
Unlike fixed expenses, variable expenses change from month to month. A good example of a variable expense is an electric bill or transportation expense which may be higher during certain times of the year. It is a good idea to average variable expenses over six months or a year to obtain a more accurate estimate of this monthly expense.
Annual expenses are often overlooked. Some annual expenses are quickly ascertained, like home owner’s association dues or personal property taxes. Other expenses are much harder to estimate like out of pocket medical expenses. Again, a yearly average is recommended to find this expense.
Discretionary spending may be the most difficult category to determine. This category includes expenses like food, entertainment expenses and clothing purchases. Bankruptcy debtors often underestimate discretionary spending and the debtor should either take a critical examination of their lifestyle and spending, or keep receipts for a month to accurately estimate this category.
It is very important to accurately identify your monthly expenses on Schedule J. In a Chapter 7 the bankruptcy court may use schedules I (monthly income) and J (monthly expenses) when considering whether you have sufficient income to afford the monthly payment proposed in a reaffirmation agreement. In a Chapter 13, the debtor must show on Schedules I and J that there is sufficient income to pay creditors or the plan will not be confirmed.
Completing your bankruptcy schedules is not a mindless check-the-box process. The federal bankruptcy laws require you to accurately and completely disclose financial information to the court. Not only must you make your best effort to provide truthful information, but it is in your best interest to use these forms to paint a picture of your financial situation that will help you get the relief that you need. Carelessness and inaccuracies will cause delays and problems in your case.
If are buried in debt, consult with an experienced bankruptcy attorney and discuss how the federal bankruptcy laws can help. Your attorney will work with you to complete the bankruptcy petition and schedules carefully and accurately to get you the relief you need.
Several monthly expense items are easily determined. Fixed monthly expenses like your mortgage or rent, auto loan payments, day care, insurance premiums, and cell phone bills are easy to identify. Fixed monthly expenses are predictable and do not generally fluctuate from month to month.
Unlike fixed expenses, variable expenses change from month to month. A good example of a variable expense is an electric bill or transportation expense which may be higher during certain times of the year. It is a good idea to average variable expenses over six months or a year to obtain a more accurate estimate of this monthly expense.
Annual expenses are often overlooked. Some annual expenses are quickly ascertained, like home owner’s association dues or personal property taxes. Other expenses are much harder to estimate like out of pocket medical expenses. Again, a yearly average is recommended to find this expense.
Discretionary spending may be the most difficult category to determine. This category includes expenses like food, entertainment expenses and clothing purchases. Bankruptcy debtors often underestimate discretionary spending and the debtor should either take a critical examination of their lifestyle and spending, or keep receipts for a month to accurately estimate this category.
It is very important to accurately identify your monthly expenses on Schedule J. In a Chapter 7 the bankruptcy court may use schedules I (monthly income) and J (monthly expenses) when considering whether you have sufficient income to afford the monthly payment proposed in a reaffirmation agreement. In a Chapter 13, the debtor must show on Schedules I and J that there is sufficient income to pay creditors or the plan will not be confirmed.
Completing your bankruptcy schedules is not a mindless check-the-box process. The federal bankruptcy laws require you to accurately and completely disclose financial information to the court. Not only must you make your best effort to provide truthful information, but it is in your best interest to use these forms to paint a picture of your financial situation that will help you get the relief that you need. Carelessness and inaccuracies will cause delays and problems in your case.
If are buried in debt, consult with an experienced bankruptcy attorney and discuss how the federal bankruptcy laws can help. Your attorney will work with you to complete the bankruptcy petition and schedules carefully and accurately to get you the relief you need.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Chapter 11 Individual Bankruptcy
When a large corporate bankruptcy hits the news chances are the company has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The title of Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code is “Reorganization” and while companies like General Motors or Washington Mutual make headlines, individuals are also eligible to file under Chapter 11.
In some cases, Chapter 11 may be the only option for an individual to file bankruptcy. Eligibility for Chapter 7 is dictated by a “means test” that determines the debtor’s ability to repay debts. Those who are able to repay their creditors may consider Chapter 13, but debt limits may disqualify the debtor from Chapter 13. The debt limits for Chapter 13 are currently $360,475 for unsecured debt and $1,081,400 for secured debt.
An individual debtor who files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection will follow many of the same (or similar) procedures that apply to Chapter 13 cases. The debtor must file a petition and schedules of assets, liabilities, income and expenses; a plan to pay creditors; and attend a meeting with a bankruptcy trustee. The debtor is required to commit all disposable income to repaying debts for five years. Disposable income in Chapter 11 is determined differently than in a Chapter 13 case. The bankruptcy court compares the Chapter 11 debtor’s monthly income against the reasonable monthly expenses. The result may be different than the disposable income amount determined in a Chapter 13 case.
Creditors are classified as secured creditors, unsecured creditors entitled to priority, and general unsecured creditors. The debtor’s plan is submitted to creditors for approval and the creditors are entitled to vote to accept or reject the plan. If the creditors reject the proposed treatment by the plan, the bankruptcy judge can still approve the plan, provided that creditors receive as much during the plan as they would receive if the debtor’s assets were liquidated. Ordinarily a Chapter 11 debtor will receive a discharge after completing all plan payments.
A Chapter 11 bankruptcy case is a complex legal proceeding requiring the leadership of a skilled and experienced bankruptcy attorney. If you are considering a bankruptcy filing, consult with an experienced attorney and discover your legal options.
In some cases, Chapter 11 may be the only option for an individual to file bankruptcy. Eligibility for Chapter 7 is dictated by a “means test” that determines the debtor’s ability to repay debts. Those who are able to repay their creditors may consider Chapter 13, but debt limits may disqualify the debtor from Chapter 13. The debt limits for Chapter 13 are currently $360,475 for unsecured debt and $1,081,400 for secured debt.
An individual debtor who files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection will follow many of the same (or similar) procedures that apply to Chapter 13 cases. The debtor must file a petition and schedules of assets, liabilities, income and expenses; a plan to pay creditors; and attend a meeting with a bankruptcy trustee. The debtor is required to commit all disposable income to repaying debts for five years. Disposable income in Chapter 11 is determined differently than in a Chapter 13 case. The bankruptcy court compares the Chapter 11 debtor’s monthly income against the reasonable monthly expenses. The result may be different than the disposable income amount determined in a Chapter 13 case.
Creditors are classified as secured creditors, unsecured creditors entitled to priority, and general unsecured creditors. The debtor’s plan is submitted to creditors for approval and the creditors are entitled to vote to accept or reject the plan. If the creditors reject the proposed treatment by the plan, the bankruptcy judge can still approve the plan, provided that creditors receive as much during the plan as they would receive if the debtor’s assets were liquidated. Ordinarily a Chapter 11 debtor will receive a discharge after completing all plan payments.
A Chapter 11 bankruptcy case is a complex legal proceeding requiring the leadership of a skilled and experienced bankruptcy attorney. If you are considering a bankruptcy filing, consult with an experienced attorney and discover your legal options.
Friday, August 13, 2010
The Bankruptcy Trustee is Not Your Friend
The United States Trustee Program is a component of the Department of Justice. The Trustee Program appoints and supervises local private trustees who administer Chapter 7 and 13 bankruptcy estates. One of the private trustee’s chief duties in Chapter 7 cases is to liquidate the debtor’s nonexempt assets and pay creditors with the proceeds. Similarly, in a Chapter 13 case the trustee must ensure that the debtor devotes all disposable income to debt repayment.
The trustee is not your friend, the judge, or your legal counsel. The trustee has no judicial power to make final decisions or issue orders regarding your bankruptcy case. While the private trustee is very skilled at bankruptcy law, the trustee is forbidden from giving the debtor legal advice.
On occasion a debtor will contact the trustee’s office with questions concerning the bankruptcy case. This is always a bad idea and often results in a negative outcome. Direct debtor contact is uncommon, so the trustee will identify and remember a debtor that personally contacts his or her office. The case may have been a “routine” bankruptcy case for the trustee, but after the debtor contact the case is squarely on the trustee’s radar. The trustee will assume there is a problem with the bankruptcy and scrutinize the case.
During a lawsuit direct communication with represented litigants is generally prohibited. Many trustees are also licensed attorneys, but may communicate directly with you while performing the duties of bankruptcy trustee. If you call the trustee, he or she will likely speak with you. And why not? You may inadvertently disclose something that is better left unsaid. What seems like an innocent and expedient communication may turn into an issue that you are unable to predict.
The bankruptcy trustee is not your friend. If you have questions concerning your bankruptcy, discuss your issues with your attorney. Your attorney can answer questions about your case, and is experienced in dealing with the bankruptcy trustee. Let your attorney represent you and do not complicate your case by communicating directly with the bankruptcy trustee.
The trustee is not your friend, the judge, or your legal counsel. The trustee has no judicial power to make final decisions or issue orders regarding your bankruptcy case. While the private trustee is very skilled at bankruptcy law, the trustee is forbidden from giving the debtor legal advice.
On occasion a debtor will contact the trustee’s office with questions concerning the bankruptcy case. This is always a bad idea and often results in a negative outcome. Direct debtor contact is uncommon, so the trustee will identify and remember a debtor that personally contacts his or her office. The case may have been a “routine” bankruptcy case for the trustee, but after the debtor contact the case is squarely on the trustee’s radar. The trustee will assume there is a problem with the bankruptcy and scrutinize the case.
During a lawsuit direct communication with represented litigants is generally prohibited. Many trustees are also licensed attorneys, but may communicate directly with you while performing the duties of bankruptcy trustee. If you call the trustee, he or she will likely speak with you. And why not? You may inadvertently disclose something that is better left unsaid. What seems like an innocent and expedient communication may turn into an issue that you are unable to predict.
The bankruptcy trustee is not your friend. If you have questions concerning your bankruptcy, discuss your issues with your attorney. Your attorney can answer questions about your case, and is experienced in dealing with the bankruptcy trustee. Let your attorney represent you and do not complicate your case by communicating directly with the bankruptcy trustee.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Lien Avoidance in Bankruptcy
Your bankruptcy attorney has many powerful to help you keep property while eliminating debt. One tool is lien avoidance, which is available to both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 debtors. The general rule in bankruptcy is that debts secured by a lien must be paid or the property must be surrendered to the creditor. However, under certain circumstances, a lien can be legally avoided without losing the property.
The Bankruptcy Code identifies two different types of liens that may be avoided during bankruptcy: (1) a judicial lien; and (2) a non-possessory, non-purchase money security interest in household goods or tools of the trade. Furthermore, to qualify for avoidance the debtor must be able to apply a bankruptcy exemption (a legal allowance to the debtor to protect property from creditors) to the property securing the debt.
Clear as mud, right?
Let's make it a little clearer: first, judicial liens are judgments and garnishments caused by a court order or judicial process. If your property is subject to a debt imposed by a court order, it may be possible to avoid the lien during bankruptcy. Statutory liens, like tax liens, are not avoidable in Chapter 7, but may be avoidable in Chapter 13.
Second, a non-possessory, non-purchase money security interest is simply a lien that you gave a creditor against property that you owned prior to incurring the debt and did not acquire using money from the creditor. A typical example is a personal bank loan secured by your television and/or other household items.
Finally, to qualify for lien avoidance, the debtor must be able to apply a legal exemption to the property. For instance, if you own a television worth $500 used as collateral for a $1,000 personal loan, you may be able to apply a legal exemption to protect the television and avoid the lien against it. Once the lien is avoided, the status of the debt changes from secured to unsecured and is likely discharged at the end of the bankruptcy case.
Additionally, if the legal exemption does not protect all of the value of the property, the lien may be reduced to the extent the lien secures the property. Using the above example, if the television is worth $500, but the debtor is only able to exempt $250 of its value, the creditor's lien would be reduced in value from $1,000 to $250 (the amount of non-exempt equity in the television).
To avoid a lien the debtor's attorney files a motion with the bankruptcy court alleging that the creditor's lien is impairing the debtor's exemption. Typically these motions are uncontested and are granted without hearing.
It is important that you provide your bankruptcy attorney with documentation for all of your loans. Your attorney can avoid certain liens during the bankruptcy that will safeguard your property after your bankruptcy discharge.
The Bankruptcy Code identifies two different types of liens that may be avoided during bankruptcy: (1) a judicial lien; and (2) a non-possessory, non-purchase money security interest in household goods or tools of the trade. Furthermore, to qualify for avoidance the debtor must be able to apply a bankruptcy exemption (a legal allowance to the debtor to protect property from creditors) to the property securing the debt.
Clear as mud, right?
Let's make it a little clearer: first, judicial liens are judgments and garnishments caused by a court order or judicial process. If your property is subject to a debt imposed by a court order, it may be possible to avoid the lien during bankruptcy. Statutory liens, like tax liens, are not avoidable in Chapter 7, but may be avoidable in Chapter 13.
Second, a non-possessory, non-purchase money security interest is simply a lien that you gave a creditor against property that you owned prior to incurring the debt and did not acquire using money from the creditor. A typical example is a personal bank loan secured by your television and/or other household items.
Finally, to qualify for lien avoidance, the debtor must be able to apply a legal exemption to the property. For instance, if you own a television worth $500 used as collateral for a $1,000 personal loan, you may be able to apply a legal exemption to protect the television and avoid the lien against it. Once the lien is avoided, the status of the debt changes from secured to unsecured and is likely discharged at the end of the bankruptcy case.
Additionally, if the legal exemption does not protect all of the value of the property, the lien may be reduced to the extent the lien secures the property. Using the above example, if the television is worth $500, but the debtor is only able to exempt $250 of its value, the creditor's lien would be reduced in value from $1,000 to $250 (the amount of non-exempt equity in the television).
To avoid a lien the debtor's attorney files a motion with the bankruptcy court alleging that the creditor's lien is impairing the debtor's exemption. Typically these motions are uncontested and are granted without hearing.
It is important that you provide your bankruptcy attorney with documentation for all of your loans. Your attorney can avoid certain liens during the bankruptcy that will safeguard your property after your bankruptcy discharge.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Buying A Car During Bankruptcy
There are a surprising number of options for a debtor to retain possession of a vehicle during bankruptcy. Choosing the best option depends on several factors including your ability to pay and the condition of your vehicle. In some cases the best financial option is to surrender your vehicle back to the bank and purchase a different one.
Years ago it was unheard of for a debtor in an active bankruptcy to obtain an auto loan. Several years ago two companies, 722 Redemption Funding, and Fresh Start Loan Corporation, began making auto loans to debtors in bankruptcy, and now many banks have lending programs for debtors. The attitude towards bankruptcy has changed and many debtors are evaluated more on their future ability to pay the loan rather than their past financial trouble.
Obtaining an auto loan during bankruptcy is a matter of showing stable income, a good debt-to-income ratio, and some assurance that your current financial trouble is unusual and not likely to reoccur. All lenders require a loan application and the criteria for approval can vary significantly. Some lenders will not approve a loan if you have had a prior repossession. Other lenders want a substantial down payment. New auto loans often want the bankruptcy discharged before approving the loan. In all cases your vehicle choice will be restricted to a newer vehicle with low miles.
During a Chapter 7 bankruptcy the debtor and the lender are free to negotiate terms outside of the bankruptcy case. The loan is not a part of the case and is not affected by the bankruptcy discharge. For Chapter 13 debtors, any new indebtedness must be approved by the trustee and the court. In most cases the Chapter 13 debtor can obtain approval after a showing of need and ability to pay.
If you are considering bankruptcy and need to buy a different vehicle, consult with an experienced attorney. There are many different options during bankruptcy for retaining, refinancing, or purchasing a different vehicle. Call today and get the information you need to drive your financial future.
Years ago it was unheard of for a debtor in an active bankruptcy to obtain an auto loan. Several years ago two companies, 722 Redemption Funding, and Fresh Start Loan Corporation, began making auto loans to debtors in bankruptcy, and now many banks have lending programs for debtors. The attitude towards bankruptcy has changed and many debtors are evaluated more on their future ability to pay the loan rather than their past financial trouble.
Obtaining an auto loan during bankruptcy is a matter of showing stable income, a good debt-to-income ratio, and some assurance that your current financial trouble is unusual and not likely to reoccur. All lenders require a loan application and the criteria for approval can vary significantly. Some lenders will not approve a loan if you have had a prior repossession. Other lenders want a substantial down payment. New auto loans often want the bankruptcy discharged before approving the loan. In all cases your vehicle choice will be restricted to a newer vehicle with low miles.
During a Chapter 7 bankruptcy the debtor and the lender are free to negotiate terms outside of the bankruptcy case. The loan is not a part of the case and is not affected by the bankruptcy discharge. For Chapter 13 debtors, any new indebtedness must be approved by the trustee and the court. In most cases the Chapter 13 debtor can obtain approval after a showing of need and ability to pay.
If you are considering bankruptcy and need to buy a different vehicle, consult with an experienced attorney. There are many different options during bankruptcy for retaining, refinancing, or purchasing a different vehicle. Call today and get the information you need to drive your financial future.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Are People In Need Avoiding Bankruptcy?
Although bankruptcy filings are climbing back to the all-time high of 2 million reached in 2005, there is a growing concern that many Americans in need of bankruptcy protection are not filing. A recent article in USA Today quotes Katherine Porter, associate professor of law at the University of Iowa who says, “[T]he filing rate doesn’t even begin to count the depth of financial pain.”
Are you hurting financially? Bankruptcy can help ease that pain.
Bankruptcy is a federal legal process for declaring an inability to pay your creditors. When you file bankruptcy you get immediate relief. The bankruptcy court imposes an “automatic stay” prohibiting creditors from taking collection action against you while the bankruptcy case is pending. The automatic stay is very powerful and stops lawsuits, wage garnishments, and even foreclosures. Its purpose is to give the debtor some breathing room and an opportunity to decide how to resolve an overwhelming debt problem.
There are typically two different types of bankruptcy cases: chapter 7 and chapter 13. In chapter 7 you eliminate debt without payment while chapter 13 is a repayment plan over three to five years. At the end of a bankruptcy case the court enters an order discharging eligible debts and permanently prohibits creditors from taking collection action against you.
In some cases certain debts are not discharged. The most common types are family support obligations, student loans, and taxes. However, bankruptcy offers significant relief by discharging other debts and freeing up money to pay the non-discharged debt. Chapter 13 can also be helpful by allowing payment of the non-dischargeable debt under the supervision of the bankruptcy court and without fear of lawsuits, wage garnishments, or other nasty creditor action.
The bankruptcy process is very efficient. For most chapter 7 debtors the case will last a few months and requires one meeting with the bankruptcy trustee. The cost of bankruptcy is very reasonable compared to the relief that is given.
If you are hurting financially, speak with an experienced bankruptcy attorney and discover how the federal bankruptcy laws can help you. There are many options available in the law and can give you real relief from overwhelming debt.
Are you hurting financially? Bankruptcy can help ease that pain.
Bankruptcy is a federal legal process for declaring an inability to pay your creditors. When you file bankruptcy you get immediate relief. The bankruptcy court imposes an “automatic stay” prohibiting creditors from taking collection action against you while the bankruptcy case is pending. The automatic stay is very powerful and stops lawsuits, wage garnishments, and even foreclosures. Its purpose is to give the debtor some breathing room and an opportunity to decide how to resolve an overwhelming debt problem.
There are typically two different types of bankruptcy cases: chapter 7 and chapter 13. In chapter 7 you eliminate debt without payment while chapter 13 is a repayment plan over three to five years. At the end of a bankruptcy case the court enters an order discharging eligible debts and permanently prohibits creditors from taking collection action against you.
In some cases certain debts are not discharged. The most common types are family support obligations, student loans, and taxes. However, bankruptcy offers significant relief by discharging other debts and freeing up money to pay the non-discharged debt. Chapter 13 can also be helpful by allowing payment of the non-dischargeable debt under the supervision of the bankruptcy court and without fear of lawsuits, wage garnishments, or other nasty creditor action.
The bankruptcy process is very efficient. For most chapter 7 debtors the case will last a few months and requires one meeting with the bankruptcy trustee. The cost of bankruptcy is very reasonable compared to the relief that is given.
If you are hurting financially, speak with an experienced bankruptcy attorney and discover how the federal bankruptcy laws can help you. There are many options available in the law and can give you real relief from overwhelming debt.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Keeping A Credit Card During Bankruptcy
A credit card is a safe and convenient way to pay for life’s necessities. In some cases a credit card is required to purchase goods or services. Debit cards are often a poor substitute for a credit card as bank holds can tie up your account for days.
If you want to keep a credit card during your bankruptcy, there are a few things to know. First, the Bankruptcy Code requires that you list all of your creditors and debts owed on the date of the bankruptcy filing. Consequently, if a credit card has a zero balance on the date that you file bankruptcy, it does not need to be listed and the credit card company does not receive notice.
Second, the use of credit during a chapter 13 bankruptcy is prohibited without prior authorization from the trustee and bankruptcy court. Usually credit approval is contingent upon a written agreement or statement from the credit card company. Chapter 7 debtors do not have this restriction.
Third, a payment on a credit card within 90 days before your bankruptcy filing may be considered a preference payment. The bankruptcy trustee may seek a court order compelling the credit card company to turn over any pre-filing payments.
Fourth, credit card companies conduct regular checks of their cardholders’ credit and your bankruptcy filing may result in the card issuer closing your account, reducing your credit line, or increasing your interest rate. These actions may also occur if you choose to reaffirm your debt with the credit card company. After reaffirming the debt the card may be cancelled and you are stuck with a non-discharged credit card balance.
Fifth, intentional failure to list a credit card with a balance can result in dismissal of your bankruptcy case. The bankruptcy court expects you to be entirely truthful concerning who you owe, regardless of your intention to pay the debt.
Sixth, consider obtaining credit after your bankruptcy discharge. Many debtors are offered unsecured credit cards shortly after their bankruptcy discharge. Many creditors consider a recently discharged debtor a good credit risk because the debtor is unable to receive another bankruptcy discharge for several years, and likely has a good debt-to-income ratio. Many post-discharge credit card offers carry high interest rates and fees, so choose wisely.
Secured credit cards are another credit option after bankruptcy. A secured credit card requires a security deposit placed with the credit card company who then issues a credit line secured by the deposit. Many banks and credit unions offer their customers secured credit cards at reasonable interest rates.
If you are interested in keeping a credit card during bankruptcy, consult with your bankruptcy attorney. Your attorney can discuss your options and help you decide on the best way to maintain a credit card account during and after your bankruptcy.
If you want to keep a credit card during your bankruptcy, there are a few things to know. First, the Bankruptcy Code requires that you list all of your creditors and debts owed on the date of the bankruptcy filing. Consequently, if a credit card has a zero balance on the date that you file bankruptcy, it does not need to be listed and the credit card company does not receive notice.
Second, the use of credit during a chapter 13 bankruptcy is prohibited without prior authorization from the trustee and bankruptcy court. Usually credit approval is contingent upon a written agreement or statement from the credit card company. Chapter 7 debtors do not have this restriction.
Third, a payment on a credit card within 90 days before your bankruptcy filing may be considered a preference payment. The bankruptcy trustee may seek a court order compelling the credit card company to turn over any pre-filing payments.
Fourth, credit card companies conduct regular checks of their cardholders’ credit and your bankruptcy filing may result in the card issuer closing your account, reducing your credit line, or increasing your interest rate. These actions may also occur if you choose to reaffirm your debt with the credit card company. After reaffirming the debt the card may be cancelled and you are stuck with a non-discharged credit card balance.
Fifth, intentional failure to list a credit card with a balance can result in dismissal of your bankruptcy case. The bankruptcy court expects you to be entirely truthful concerning who you owe, regardless of your intention to pay the debt.
Sixth, consider obtaining credit after your bankruptcy discharge. Many debtors are offered unsecured credit cards shortly after their bankruptcy discharge. Many creditors consider a recently discharged debtor a good credit risk because the debtor is unable to receive another bankruptcy discharge for several years, and likely has a good debt-to-income ratio. Many post-discharge credit card offers carry high interest rates and fees, so choose wisely.
Secured credit cards are another credit option after bankruptcy. A secured credit card requires a security deposit placed with the credit card company who then issues a credit line secured by the deposit. Many banks and credit unions offer their customers secured credit cards at reasonable interest rates.
If you are interested in keeping a credit card during bankruptcy, consult with your bankruptcy attorney. Your attorney can discuss your options and help you decide on the best way to maintain a credit card account during and after your bankruptcy.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Making Your First Chapter 13 Payment
In a Chapter 13 bankruptcy case the debtor proposes a plan to pay back creditors. That plan is composed of monthly payments to satisfy all or part of the creditors' claims over three to five years. Monthly payments are made to the Chapter 13 Trustee, who then pays your creditors.
There is often confusion over when the first plan payment due. Section 1326 of the Bankruptcy Code directs that the first payment must be made within 30 days after filing the bankruptcy case, even if the debtor’s bankruptcy plan has not yet been approved by the court. Often the first meeting with the Trustee (also known as the "341 meeting" or "meeting of creditors") is scheduled more than 30 days after the filing date, so the Trustee expects your first payment before that meeting. The Trustee will hold all payments until the plan is approved by the Bankruptcy Court (called "confirmation"), and then make distributions to creditors.
It is critical that you make this initial payment within thirty days after filing. It is especially important to monitor the status of this first payment when you have instructed your employer to pay the Trustee from your wages. It is your responsibility to ensure that this first payment is made, and neither the Trustee nor the Bankruptcy Court gives much latitude to a debtor who misses the first deadline in the case.
Making a timely first Chapter 13 payment allows your plan to proceed to confirmation and will expedite the bankruptcy process. Failure to commence making payments can result in delays, additional expenses, or even dismissal. Consult with your bankruptcy attorney regarding payment details, and make that first payment on-time!
There is often confusion over when the first plan payment due. Section 1326 of the Bankruptcy Code directs that the first payment must be made within 30 days after filing the bankruptcy case, even if the debtor’s bankruptcy plan has not yet been approved by the court. Often the first meeting with the Trustee (also known as the "341 meeting" or "meeting of creditors") is scheduled more than 30 days after the filing date, so the Trustee expects your first payment before that meeting. The Trustee will hold all payments until the plan is approved by the Bankruptcy Court (called "confirmation"), and then make distributions to creditors.
It is critical that you make this initial payment within thirty days after filing. It is especially important to monitor the status of this first payment when you have instructed your employer to pay the Trustee from your wages. It is your responsibility to ensure that this first payment is made, and neither the Trustee nor the Bankruptcy Court gives much latitude to a debtor who misses the first deadline in the case.
Making a timely first Chapter 13 payment allows your plan to proceed to confirmation and will expedite the bankruptcy process. Failure to commence making payments can result in delays, additional expenses, or even dismissal. Consult with your bankruptcy attorney regarding payment details, and make that first payment on-time!
Friday, May 7, 2010
Can I Keep My House If I File Bankruptcy?
One of the most common and important questions asked by a client during the initial bankruptcy consultation is, “Can I keep my house?”
The happy answer is, “Yes.” However, every client’s case is different and requires a skilled and experience attorney to evaluate your situation and help you choose the appropriate debt relief process.
The first question is whether there is equity in your home. Every state allows the debtor to exempt home equity from creditors during bankruptcy. Home equity is simply the difference between the amount that is owed and what the property is worth. If you have more equity in your home than can be exempted, you may need to consider either a Chapter 13 repayment plan or a non-bankruptcy option for debt repayment. In a Chapter 13 the debtor pays the amount equal to the non-exempt home equity to unsecured creditors (like credit cards and medical bills) over a three to five year period. If Chapter 13 is not a feasible option, the debtor may want to consider borrowing against the home equity to pay unsecured creditors.
The second issue is whether you can afford to keep the home by making the monthly payments. A home mortgage is a secured debt which must be paid or you must surrender the property back to the mortgage holder. When circumstances have changed and you can no loner afford to keep your home, the bankruptcy laws can help you to leave on your terms without any lingering debt.
In some cases a third issue is present: the debt is more than the value of the house. In those cases bankruptcy may help either through lien stripping an entirely unsecured second mortgage, or by encouraging the mortgage holder to negotiate for a modification and reduction in principle. Typically the mortgage holder does not want your property, and is usually willing to discuss payment options once a bankruptcy case is filed.
Finally, some debtors are facing foreclosure from an uncooperative mortgage holder. A Chapter 13 bankruptcy can be used to force the mortgage holder to accept payments that cure mortgage arrears over three to five years.
There are many options available for saving your home. Your bankruptcy attorney can discuss the pros and cons of each and help you decide which option is best for your family. Use the federal law to your advantage and discover how the bankruptcy laws can help you keep your home.
The happy answer is, “Yes.” However, every client’s case is different and requires a skilled and experience attorney to evaluate your situation and help you choose the appropriate debt relief process.
The first question is whether there is equity in your home. Every state allows the debtor to exempt home equity from creditors during bankruptcy. Home equity is simply the difference between the amount that is owed and what the property is worth. If you have more equity in your home than can be exempted, you may need to consider either a Chapter 13 repayment plan or a non-bankruptcy option for debt repayment. In a Chapter 13 the debtor pays the amount equal to the non-exempt home equity to unsecured creditors (like credit cards and medical bills) over a three to five year period. If Chapter 13 is not a feasible option, the debtor may want to consider borrowing against the home equity to pay unsecured creditors.
The second issue is whether you can afford to keep the home by making the monthly payments. A home mortgage is a secured debt which must be paid or you must surrender the property back to the mortgage holder. When circumstances have changed and you can no loner afford to keep your home, the bankruptcy laws can help you to leave on your terms without any lingering debt.
In some cases a third issue is present: the debt is more than the value of the house. In those cases bankruptcy may help either through lien stripping an entirely unsecured second mortgage, or by encouraging the mortgage holder to negotiate for a modification and reduction in principle. Typically the mortgage holder does not want your property, and is usually willing to discuss payment options once a bankruptcy case is filed.
Finally, some debtors are facing foreclosure from an uncooperative mortgage holder. A Chapter 13 bankruptcy can be used to force the mortgage holder to accept payments that cure mortgage arrears over three to five years.
There are many options available for saving your home. Your bankruptcy attorney can discuss the pros and cons of each and help you decide which option is best for your family. Use the federal law to your advantage and discover how the bankruptcy laws can help you keep your home.
Friday, April 2, 2010
Changes in Law Make Bankruptcy More Accessible
Effective April 1, 2010, certain dollar limits contained in the Bankruptcy Code will be increased. A full comparison of the current and changed amounts can be found by following this link. These most meaningful changes to consumer bankruptcy cases are:
• An increase of the eligibility limit for Chapter 13 from $336, 900 to $360,475 in unsecured debt, and from $1,010,650 to
$1,081,400 in secured debt;
• The federal homestead exemption increases from $136,875 to $146,450; and
• The presumption of fraud for luxury items purchased with a credit card within 90 days of a bankruptcy filing increases from $550 to $600; and the presumption of fraud for credit card cash advances within 70 days of filing increases from $825 to $875.
Many other dollar amount increases will take effect on April 1, 2010, including increases to protected educational accounts, increasing restrictions to the bankruptcy trustee’s powers under certain circumstances, and increased protection for retirement accounts. In all, these increases will make the bankruptcy attorney’s job of protecting the consumer debtor a little easier, and make the bankruptcy process more accessible. Please note that these changes will only affect bankruptcy cases filed on or after April 1, 2010.
If you and your family struggle each month to pay bills, consult with an experienced bankruptcy attorney and discuss your financial options. There are many repayment and “walk-away” options available under the Bankruptcy Code. Get the facts and don’t let debt ruin your life.
• An increase of the eligibility limit for Chapter 13 from $336, 900 to $360,475 in unsecured debt, and from $1,010,650 to
$1,081,400 in secured debt;
• The federal homestead exemption increases from $136,875 to $146,450; and
• The presumption of fraud for luxury items purchased with a credit card within 90 days of a bankruptcy filing increases from $550 to $600; and the presumption of fraud for credit card cash advances within 70 days of filing increases from $825 to $875.
Many other dollar amount increases will take effect on April 1, 2010, including increases to protected educational accounts, increasing restrictions to the bankruptcy trustee’s powers under certain circumstances, and increased protection for retirement accounts. In all, these increases will make the bankruptcy attorney’s job of protecting the consumer debtor a little easier, and make the bankruptcy process more accessible. Please note that these changes will only affect bankruptcy cases filed on or after April 1, 2010.
If you and your family struggle each month to pay bills, consult with an experienced bankruptcy attorney and discuss your financial options. There are many repayment and “walk-away” options available under the Bankruptcy Code. Get the facts and don’t let debt ruin your life.
Changes in Law Make Bankruptcy More Accessible
Effective April 1, 2010, certain dollar limits contained in the Bankruptcy Code will be increased. A full comparison of the current and changed amounts can be found by following this link. These most meaningful changes to consumer bankruptcy cases are:
• An increase of the eligibility limit for Chapter 13 from $336, 900 to $360,475 in unsecured debt, and from $1,010,650 to
$1,081,400 in secured debt;
• The federal homestead exemption increases from $136,875 to $146,450; and
• The presumption of fraud for luxury items purchased with a credit card within 90 days of a bankruptcy filing increases from $550 to $600; and the presumption of fraud for credit card cash advances within 70 days of filing increases from $825 to $875.
Many other dollar amount increases will take effect on April 1, 2010, including increases to protected educational accounts, increasing restrictions to the bankruptcy trustee’s powers under certain circumstances, and increased protection for retirement accounts. In all, these increases will make the bankruptcy attorney’s job of protecting the consumer debtor a little easier, and make the bankruptcy process more accessible. Please note that these changes will only affect bankruptcy cases filed on or after April 1, 2010.
If you and your family struggle each month to pay bills, consult with an experienced bankruptcy attorney and discuss your financial options. There are many repayment and “walk-away” options available under the Bankruptcy Code. Get the facts and don’t let debt ruin your life.
• An increase of the eligibility limit for Chapter 13 from $336, 900 to $360,475 in unsecured debt, and from $1,010,650 to
$1,081,400 in secured debt;
• The federal homestead exemption increases from $136,875 to $146,450; and
• The presumption of fraud for luxury items purchased with a credit card within 90 days of a bankruptcy filing increases from $550 to $600; and the presumption of fraud for credit card cash advances within 70 days of filing increases from $825 to $875.
Many other dollar amount increases will take effect on April 1, 2010, including increases to protected educational accounts, increasing restrictions to the bankruptcy trustee’s powers under certain circumstances, and increased protection for retirement accounts. In all, these increases will make the bankruptcy attorney’s job of protecting the consumer debtor a little easier, and make the bankruptcy process more accessible. Please note that these changes will only affect bankruptcy cases filed on or after April 1, 2010.
If you and your family struggle each month to pay bills, consult with an experienced bankruptcy attorney and discuss your financial options. There are many repayment and “walk-away” options available under the Bankruptcy Code. Get the facts and don’t let debt ruin your life.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Can I Have Money in a Bank Account When I File Bankruptcy?
The two most common types of consumer bankruptcies are Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. In a Chapter 7 all of the debtor’s property is placed into an estate which is controlled by the bankruptcy trustee. While no property physically changes hands (at least not at the beginning of the case), the trustee and bankruptcy court have broad legal power over your property. If you have money in a bank account on the day you file, your bank account and money are assets of the bankruptcy estate. You are no longer free to transfer funds or assets as they now belong to the bankruptcy estate.Take for example that you have $5,000 sitting in your checking account on the day you file bankruptcy. That money is property of the Chapter 7 bankruptcy estate and is no longer yours to control or use. If you take the $5,000 out of the bank the day after filing to pay your mortgage payment and other bills, the Chapter 7 trustee can seek to recover those funds, either from you or from the payee.
During a Chapter 13 bankruptcy the debtor retains possession and control over his or her property, and is free to use any funds in the debtor’s bank account. An accounting is performed and the debtor’s property is classified as either exempt or non-exempt. Non-exempt property is not taken from the debtor (as is often the case in a Chapter 7), but the Chapter 13 debtor is required to pay unsecured creditors a sum equal to the amount of non-exempt equity. For instance, if there is $5,000 in the debtor’s bank account, the debtor may only be able to exempt a portion of the entire sum. The non-exempt portion must be paid to the creditors through the debtor’s Chapter 13 plan (over three to five years).
Cash in a bank account can be a problematic issue for a debtor. Avoiding these problems is the joint responsibility of the debtor and the debtor’s bankruptcy attorney. Timing is critical to minimizing your financial exposure. An experienced bankruptcy attorney can help you maximize the benefits of the bankruptcy laws and navigate around any pitfalls.
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Foreclosures at 20% puts Florida second in the Nation
Florida is second to Nevada in foreclosures. While many are trying to sell their homes before being foreclosed on it seems many others could not avoid foreclosure. The picture below from AP shows state by state foreclosure rates. It paints a gloomy picture for what is to come for many Americans who can not afford the homes they live in or for investors who thought they could make some money flipping a house but today can not give away a house. I have seen many people in my office just wanting to get rid of their homes. They owe way more than what the home is currently worth and they can not afford the monthly payment with interest rates resetting and insurance and tax increases. So instead of trying to come current on the home by filing a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy they are wanting to give the home back in a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy. I offer a free consultation to see what is right for your situation. Please call my office at 850-607-2222. My fees start at just $675.00 plus filing fees and costs.
Toll Free: 877-607-2228
Pensacola: 850-607-2222
Bankruptcy Attorney Erich M. Niederlehner, of Mobile, Alabama, Pensacola Florida & Fort Walton Beach, Florida provides qualitiy legal Bankruptcy services to the citizens of Escambia County Florida, Santa Rosa County Florida, Okaloosa County Florida, Walton County Florida, Mobile County Alabama, Baldwin County Alabama which includes but is not limited to the following cities:
Pensacola|Gulf Breeze|Milton|Pace|Midway|Pensacola Beach|Navarre|Navarre Beach|Jay|Century|Central|Cantonment|Crestview|Fort Walton|Destin|Niceville|Fort Walton Beach|Freeport|Mobile|Spanish Fort|Fairhope|Foley|Daphane|Silverhill|Grand Pointe|Gulf Shores|Orange Beach|Loxley|Elberta|
113 N. Palafox Street, Pensacola, Florida 32502 - Main Office
16 Ferry Road, S.E., Fort Walton Beach, Florida 32548 | 401 Church Street, Mobile, Alabama 36602
16 Ferry Road, S.E., Fort Walton Beach, Florida 32548 | 401 Church Street, Mobile, Alabama 36602
Toll Free: 877-607-2228
Pensacola: 850-607-2222
Alabama and Florida Bankruptcy Attorneys offer Affordable Bankruptcy, Debt Relief & Debt Consolidation in Alabama and Florida. Bankruptcy Attorneys provide Low Cost Bankruptcy & Discount Rates on Bankruptcy Attorney Fees serving Mobile, Alabama, Pensacola Florida & Fort Walton Beach, Florida.
Alabama and Florida Bankruptcy Lawyer – Attorney Erich M. Niederlehner Chapter 7 &13, Affordable Debt Relief & Bill Consolidation in Alabama and Florida.
Alabama and Florida Bankruptcy Lawyer – Attorney Erich M. Niederlehner Chapter 7 &13, Affordable Debt Relief & Bill Consolidation in Alabama and Florida.
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