Most people can get a credit card after bankruptcy shortly after discharge, though Chapter 13 filers may need court permission first. Chapter 7 filers usually do better by waiting until the discharge enters and their credit reports update. From there, the safest first move is one low-fee rebuild … [Read more...]

In Texas, you can usually buy a car after your bankruptcy is discharged. For many Chapter 7 filers, the discharge order is entered about four months after filing if no objection is filed. In an open Chapter 13 case, do not sign for new vehicle debt until you have gone through the trustee and local … [Read more...]

 Yes, one spouse can file for bankruptcy in Texas without the other. The filing only appears on the filing spouse's credit report. But because Texas is a community property state, the non-filing spouse can still be affected in ways most couples don't see coming (Tex. Fam. Code § 3.002). At … [Read more...]

What not to do before filing bankruptcy: Don’t run up new credit card charges, transfer or hide assets, repay family or one creditor, or cash out retirement accounts. In Texas, exemption rules and federal lookback periods can turn these moves into trustee problems or nondischargeable debt. Get legal … [Read more...]

Non-exempt assets in Chapter 7 in Texas are property or equity not covered by Texas or federal exemptions. The bankruptcy trustee may sell the non-exempt value to pay unsecured creditors. Common examples include extra vehicles, non-homestead real estate, and cash above exemption limits. Since … [Read more...]

Reasons to file bankruptcy in Texas often come down to getting real debt relief fast. But the right path depends on your income, assets, and what types of debts you have. Some debts can be wiped out. Others will still have to be paid. Key Takeaways Filing triggers the automatic … [Read more...]

Yes, filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy immediately stops car repossession through the automatic stay. However, the automatic stay doesn't eliminate your lender's lien on the vehicle. If you're behind on payments, you'll need to catch up quickly, reaffirm the loan, redeem the car, or surrender it. In North … [Read more...]

Alternatives to bankruptcy in Texas can work, but it depends on your debt type, how close you are to a lawsuit, and what you own. Many Texans have strong wage and property protections, but secured debts like a mortgage or car loan can still lead to foreclosure or repossession. Bankruptcy can feel … [Read more...]

Can utility bills be included in chapter 7 bankruptcy in Texas? Yes, in most cases past-due utility bills can be included and discharged, but you must keep paying future utility bills and you may have to post a new deposit to keep service on. Cable, internet, and cell phone service may not get the … [Read more...]