When you’re burdened by excessive debt, it can seem like the whole world is about to crash down on you. In addition to your credit card bills, you may also have back mortgage payments and utility bills that, if left unmet, can put your safety and well-being in the balance. When facing this precarious situation,… Read More

Tax withholding is the amount of funds withheld from paychecks, pensions, bonuses and other forms of income in order to pay an individual’s annual federal income tax. Ensuring enough tax is withheld is crucial to managing household finances properly and, in the end, preventing the need for bankruptcy. When an individual fails to withhold enough… Read More

The bankruptcy petition form, also called the voluntary petition, is one of the first of a long series of documents and paperwork that must be filled out in order to apply for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy. The bankruptcy petition form reveals the basic information required to start the bankruptcy process, including:  debtor’s name,… Read More

Unfortunately, credit fraud may be presumed under certain circumstances. For instance, if you purchase luxury items of $500 or more on a credit card less than 90 days before filing for bankruptcy or take a cash advance of $750 or more, less than 70 days before filing, it is presumed to be non-dischargeable. However, other… Read More

Debts by fraud are not dischargeable when filing for bankruptcy; those who accumulate debt they have no intention of paying back will still be responsible for it after bankruptcy. Using credit cards irresponsibly and accumulating luxury debt right before you file for bankruptcy is a red flag, especially if purchasing luxury items like designer clothes… Read More

The Brunner test is a way to determine if certain types of debt can be discharged based on hardship. Bankruptcy does not eliminate all types of debt such as student loans, so tests like these may be used to determine if the debt can be discharged. A Look at the Brunner Test  To determine if… Read More

Before you decide to declare Chapter 13 bankruptcy, it’s important to consider the pros and cons. It is generally recommended for individuals who can afford daily living expenses but are struggling to make payments on debts. Pros to declaring Chapter 13 bankruptcy include:  all property is kept; debt payments may be reduced or stretched out;… Read More

Filing for bankruptcy is a serious decision. Although it can discharge some debts and stop harassment from creditors, it stays on a credit report for up to 10 years, damaging filers’ credit. However, what happens when a homeowner is behind on mortgage payments and does not want to lose his or her home? Bankruptcy can… Read More

You should be aware of the bankruptcy exemptions in your state if you are filing. When you file for bankruptcy, your assets may be sold in order to pay off creditors for the amount of debt you owe.  Each state has different laws as to the types and amounts of assets that can be excluded… Read More