Should I file a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

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Should I file a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

I am in the middle of a divorce. My soon to be ex-wife has already filed Chapter 7. I can’t file a 7 because I did it 6 years ago. ‘ve been stuck with the mortgage that hasn’t been paid in over 6 months that I’m being taken to court over in 3 weeks, the car loan that has 2 vehicles of upside-down loans rolled into it and 5 credit cards. I can barely afford to buy gas to get to and from work and I am terrified that they will garnish my wages. My other concern is I have a property in my name that my dad lives in now that was purchased from my mother’s life insurance proceeds.

Asked on May 17, 2012 under Bankruptcy Law, Kentucky

Answers:

M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 12 years ago | Contributor

Here is what the Federal government says: Chapter 13 offers individuals a number of advantages over liquidation under chapter 7. Perhaps most significantly, chapter 13 offers individuals an opportunity to save their homes from foreclosure. By filing under this chapter, individuals can stop foreclosure proceedings and may cure delinquent mortgage payments over time. Nevertheless, they must still make all mortgage payments that come due during the chapter 13 plan on time. Another advantage of chapter 13 is that it allows individuals to reschedule secured debts (other than a mortgage for their primary residence) and extend them over the life of the chapter 13 plan. Doing this may lower the payments. Chapter 13 also has a special provision that protects third parties who are liable with the debtor on "consumer debts." This provision may protect co-signers. Finally, chapter 13 acts like a consolidation loan under which the individual makes the plan payments to a chapter 13 trustee who then distributes payments to creditors. Individuals will have no direct contact with creditors while under chapter 13 protection. Any individual, even if self-employed or operating an unincorporated business, is eligible for chapter 13 relief as long as the individual's unsecured debts are less than $360,475 and secured debts are less than $1,081,400. 11 U.S.C. § 109(e). These amounts are adjusted periodically to reflect changes in the consumer price index. A corporation or partnership may not be a chapter 13 debtor. "  It sounds as if this may give you peace of mind.  Speak with an attorney in your area.  Good luck.



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