The bankruptcy option + Benefits of Bankruptcy + Saving Your Home + Your business & bankruptcy + Marriage and Debt

Unexpected debts from medical bills can happen to anyone.

Medical Bills Debt in Northern California

If you are struggling with medical bills, you are not alone. In fact, the average out-of-pocket medical costs for all medically bankrupt families was $17,943 (American Journal of Medicine, 2009).

After the current bankruptcy law went into effect in 2005, many people were left with the impression that bankruptcy relief was no longer available or too difficult to obtain. Nothing could be further from the truth.

The Myths of Bankruptcy

Like most formidable situations, bankruptcy has earned its reputation based on very few truthful facts and too many false embellishments. The majority of the myths about bankruptcy have begun since the current bankruptcy laws went into effect in 2005. But have no fear, once you know the facts, filing for bankruptcy is not nearly as terrifying as it first appears. Here are some of the most common myths about bankruptcy and what you need to know before you clean your slate.

Myth #1: It is difficult to file for bankruptcy.

Who Files Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

In October 2005, the laws which govern Chapter 13 bankruptcy changed. One of the more significant ways the law changed dealt with the eligibility requirements for filing for Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy.

How Flexible is Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

Before filing for bankruptcy, it is crucial to understand all the facts. Since you may not be an expert in bankruptcy law, the questions you might have about the process have answers that are anything but clear. Not only are there different types of bankruptcy, Chapter 7 and Chapter 13, but there are also significant differences between the two.

Bankruptcy Property Exemptions

The process of bankruptcy offers debtors a clean slate when they are overwhelmed by financial burdens. Once a bankruptcy case is completed, however, the debtor will still need basic possessions and assets to move their life forward. Fortunately, the Bankruptcy Code recognizes these basic needs and provides a variety of property exemptions for debtors. If property is exempt, it will not be subject to the seizure of creditors.