Bankrutpcy
If you find yourself unable to pay your debts, then bankruptcy could be an option. A perilous financial situation can arise from a lay off, medical emergency or a divorce. Bankruptcy allows good people to gain a fresh start, as certain debts, including credit cards, are wiped away following a discharge in Chapter 7. The Hulburt Law Firm offers Chapter 7 at a highly affordable rate. The initial consultation is free.
How does someone qualify for bankruptcy?
To qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, debtors must pass a means test. The means test requires a debtor to fall below the median income for families of the same size in his or her state. A debtor may file once every 8 years.
How does bankruptcy affect vehicles, homes and possessions?
Debtors are permitted to claim certain property exemptions, as defined by state law. In Ohio, for example, a debtor can exempt $20,200 of home equity and $3,225 in a motor vehicle. Since the majority of debtors have an older vehicle or negative home equity, the trustee allows them to keep the secured property. There are also personal property and "wild card" exemptions that protect property from liquidation by the trustee. However, property secured by a security interest, such as a home or vehicle, can still be taken by a creditor if the debt is not paid. Typically, a debtor either reaffirms or surrenders secured property in a bankruptcy.
How will bankruptcy affect credit?
Although bankruptcy usually stays on credit reports for 7-10 years, people often find it easier to obtain credit after a discharge.
We are a debt relief agency under the Federal Bankruptcy Code.
- A debtor's credit report is essentially wiped clean after bankruptcy: all the late payments and records on unpaid debts are marked as "included in Chapter 7 Bankruptcy."
- Creditors know that the Bankruptcy Code permits filing once every 8 years, so someone fresh out of bankruptcy cannot turn around and refile.
- Income that otherwise would be spent on debts "frees up," allowing people to build credit with timely payments.
We are a debt relief agency under the Federal Bankruptcy Code.