Filing for bankruptcy can be the solution to your debt problems and help you gain financial freedom. Though, it is never an easy decision to make.
There are two types of bankruptcy available to individuals and families: Chapter 7 bankruptcy and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. To understand the differences between the chapters read our article The Differences Between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 Bankruptcy.
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Explained
Chapter 13 bankruptcy creates a repayment plan that lasts three to five years, depending on your specific situation. Chapter 13 can stop a foreclosure on your home and even give you a chance to catch up on mortgage arrears.
Chapter 13 bankruptcy plans must be approved by the Bankruptcy Trustee and the Bankruptcy Court. It can be complicated. We’ve filed thousands of Chapter 13 cases. When you hire us, you are in experienced and capable hands.
It is our mission to ensure that you understand the power and benefits of Chapter 13 bankruptcy. We’re here to answer all of your questions. Call us right now (912) 351-9000 to schedule a free consultation.
Benefits of Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
- Stops wage garnishments, stop lawsuits filed by creditors, stops harassing creditor phone calls, and stops automobile repossession.
- At the conclusion of the Bankruptcy, remaining credit card debt, medical bills, or other unsecured debts, and some tax debts, are discharged (erased).
- Stops all collection action.
- Can stop foreclosure and allow a homeowner to catch up on mortgage arrears.
- In some cases, allows a homeowner to “lien strip” or eliminate the second mortgage.
- Creates an opportunity to catch up on missed car payments.
- Creates an opportunity to catch up on other missed payments, such as back taxes or child support payments.
Chapter 13 bankruptcy might be the solution to your debt problems. However, it requires monthly payments to the Bankruptcy Trustee for three to five years, which can be difficult for some people to manage. Also, depending on your specific case, you may still owe on some debts after bankruptcy, such as student loans.
Filing for bankruptcy will adversely affect your credit score in the short term; however, if you have already fallen behind on paying your debts, your score has likely already decreased.
Qualifying for Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
To qualify for Chapter 13, you must have a steady source of income, such as from a job, self-employment, a business, retirement income, or social security. This is not a requirement if you file for Chapter 7.
At our free consultation, we will help you determine which chapter of bankruptcy is right for you.
Costs of Filing Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
Those costs of filing for Chapter 13 include court filing fees, mandatory credit counseling fees, and attorneys fees. In our district, we have what is called a “no look” fee, meaning that the attorney’s fees are set by the Bankruptcy Court. Since Chapter 13 creates a monthly payment plan, the attorney’s fees can be paid from those payments.
When we meet for a free consultation, we will go over all of the costs together. There will not be any surprise fees or costs down the road.
After Filing for Bankruptcy
Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a powerful tool that can help you save your house, catch up on missed payments, and eliminate unsecured debts like credit card debt.
We are here to help you understand the process and decide if filing for relief under Chapter 13 is the right choice for you and your family. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
The Law Offices of Barbara B. Braziel proudly serves Savannah, Richmond Hill, Hinesville, Pooler, Port Wentworth, Tybee Island, Clyo, Ellabel, Midway, Ludowici, Springfield, Pembroke, Brooklet, and Garden City, GA.
We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code.
