Social Security Benefits and Bankruptcy If you receive Social Security benefits, bankruptcy provides protection through state exemptions whether you file Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy . Most often the means test helps determine your eligibility when filing, but some states may not calculate your benefits into the test. On the other hand, there are [...]

The Purpose of Bankruptcy Bankruptcy is a legal process that can help improve your financial situation but some may not exactly understand what bankruptcy is. Many assume it will wipe away debts but certain qualifications should be met depending on your situation. The following basic questions are most commonly asked that may shed light on [...]

Handling Debt Lawsuits Getting a summons and learning you are being sued can be overwhelming and confusing when you are unsure what your next course of action should be. You have the option of seeking legal assistance to help you resolve the matter. In answering the summons, there are several steps to take that may [...]

Steps to Take After Bankruptcy You've filed for the personal bankruptcy, and the bankruptcy courts finally approved your case. Your debts are officially eliminated from your life - and you are debt-free for the first time. However, before you throw your hands in the air and celebrate your clean financial slate, you will need to [...]

Bankruptcy can help improve finances in a variety of ways, but while it is a powerful tool debtors can utilize, bankruptcy does have limitations on what debt can be discharged or eliminated. It's important to review your options in bankruptcy including what debt can be wiped out and what is left at the end of [...]

Waiting for Tax Refund to File Bankruptcy New research conducted by economists at the University of Chicago, Columbia University and Washington University in St. Louis reveal many consumers wait to file bankruptcy until they receive their tax refund check.  The study also showed the total number of bankruptcies increased in 2008 after debtors received their [...]

After getting a better understanding of your financial troubles and have considered alternatives, you've decided the best solution for your situation is to file bankruptcy.  The process is an important step that can help you get the new financial start you deserve but what you do before, during and after the process can make a [...]

When Your Co-Signer Files Bankruptcy The bankruptcy process may seem challenging depending on personal circumstances and which chapter is filed. It is often wondered what happens when a co-signer files for bankruptcy protection. In many cases, a co-signer situation makes both parties responsible for outstanding debt. If the account in question goes into default, either [...]

Borrowing After a Personal Bankruptcy You may think that filing for a personal bankruptcy is like declaring a death sentence for your credit score. However, there is no denying that there certainly are ways you can borrow after filing for a personal bankruptcy. Ultimately, you can borrow the smart way - or you can take [...]

No matter how much you think you may know about personal bankruptcy, there's no denying that there's a great deal of misinformation you might be falling for. However, this "misinformation" might do more than lead you astray - it might even prevent you from filing for bankruptcy when you need it most. So what are [...]