Monday 30 June 2014

Making The Right Decisions When Filing Bankruptcy

By Anthony Cruz


Many people disapprove of bankruptcy until their personal situation changes. You never know what is going to change in your life. For example, you could lose your job or get divorced from your spouse, which could cause you to be forced to claim bankruptcy. Follow the advice presented here if this describes your situation.

Prior to putting in the bankruptcy paperwork, determine what assets are protected from seizure. To find an itemized list detailing assets exempt from bankruptcy, find the Bankruptcy Code. It is important that you read this list before filing for bankruptcy, so that can find out whether or not your most prized possessions will be seized. If you don't read it, you could have nasty surprises pop up later due to your prized possessions being seized.

Be aware that getting unsecured credit is going to be tough once you've gone through bankruptcy. If that's the case, it is beneficial to apply for one or even two secured cards. This will allow you to start building a good credit history while minimizing the bank's risk. After a time, you are going to be able to have unsecured credit cards too.

A key tip for those filing a personal bankruptcy petition is to always be completely honest in all documentation. Not only is hiding income and assets wrong, it is also a crime.

If you are considering filing for personal bankruptcy, be certain that this is really the right course of action for you. You may well be able to regain control over your debts by consolidating them. Bankruptcy is not a simple, breezy course of action that should be taken lightly. It will also harm your ability to secure credit in years to come. Needless to say, if some alternative strategy will allow you to take care of your debts, you should give it a try before resorting to bankruptcy.

You should never give up. Bankruptcy might help you get back things you thought you'd lost and had repossessed, such as electronics, vehicles and jewelry. Any property repossessed within 90 days before filing bankruptcy, may be able to be returned to you. Consult with a lawyer that can walk you through the filing process.

Prior to choosing a bankruptcy attorney, seek a free consultation with at least three attorneys. Ensure that you have a meeting with a real lawyer instead of an assistant, since they can provide the best advice. Interviewing multiple attorneys is a good way to find the best fit.

Pick the right time to file. They say timing is everything, and this rings true when filing for bankruptcy. Sometimes you should file immediately; however, there are times when it is better to delay until the worst has passed. Talk with a bankruptcy attorney to find out the ideal timing for filing based on your particular situation.

Before you file, make sure you understand the laws as much as possible. For instance, somebody cannot transfer assets from a filer's name up to a year after they file. Other laws you need to know include debt-based regulations. You cannot increase debt via credit cards prior to filing a claim. Your finances basically have to remain frozen.

Don't hide from your friends and family while you go through bankruptcy. The process of bankruptcy can seem brutal. Having to declare bankruptcy leaves many people feeling like a failure. Lots of people decide they should hide from everyone else until it is all over. However, becoming a hermit will only increase feelings of self-doubt and could make you depressed. It's crucial to spend time with loved ones despite your present financial situation.

Bankruptcy should be your last resort. You must remember that some debt consolidation services really are just a scam, and using them will result in even more debt for you. Keep these tips in mind to make the best choices for your financial future and to avoid worsening your debt.




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