A Short Guide to Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
If you’re considering Chapter 13 bankruptcy, it’s critical to understand exactly what it requires, and what it could mean for your future and finances. So how does this type of consumer bankruptcy work, and how can you find out whether you are qualified to apply? Below is a brief overview of what to prepare for Chapter 13.
This Chapter is often termed as a reorganization bankruptcy; in contrast to Chapter 7, which works by using your resources to repay your debt, Chapter 13 gives you the chance toreorganize the debts and prepare a payment plan. This varies according to your present and expected salary, and so does whether you qualify. In order to apply for Chapter 13, a person must have a steady salary, lower than $336,900 in unsecured debt and at most $1,010,650 in collateralized debt. A secured debt is one in which a creditor is able to take a specified item of property, like real estate or a car, in case you can’t pay; a good example of unsecured debt would be credit card or medical costs, which never grant creditors the ability to repossess any kind of private assets.
In case you’re qualified to apply, you must attend a credit guidance program before filing your chapter 13 petition. This is actually a simple endeavor, and may make it easier to evaluate your financial plans as well as begin to make your repayment schedule. While you’re in control of producing this plan, the judge has to accept it before it goes into effect, and you might want to find a bankruptcy lawyer who will help you.
A settlement plan under Chapter 13 can run between 3 to 5 years, and points out the way in which you will pay back the debt, in addition to just how much. It can take monthly step-by-step payments, the amount of which depends on your wages, until finally your obligations are 100 % repaid. How you will shape your repayment plan is at your discretion, but priority debts like child support or overdue taxes need to be taken into account first. Because collateralized debts can be due at a certain date, your plan must include and take into account both your regular monthly bills and any overdue amounts. Any leftover income will probably be allocated for unsecured debts as part of your plan, but if this is necessary will be the decision of your bankruptcy trustee.
After the 3 to 5 years have passed and you’ve accomplished your payment obligations, remaining debts could be wiped out. Once you’ve gone to a budget counseling program and demonstrated to the court that you’ve settled all delinquent debt, and even stayed in control of your regular bills, you’ll have properly completed your Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
For more information regarding Chapter 13 or to find a knowledgeable bankruptcy lawyer, contact a well-versed Michigan bankruptcy attorney.
January 1, 2011
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Posted by Jason Hendricks
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