The patterns of people filing for bankruptcy in Virginia and around the country often correlate with economic trends. An expanding economy and lowered unemployment rate may lead to fewer bankruptcies while downturns or higher interest rates may force more debtors to seek relief through the courts.
Elements that may increase the likelihood of divorce
Virginia couples that married in their late 20s or early 30s might be more likely to have marriages that last than those that married at earlier or younger ages. Studies have found that the age at which one marries and several other factors might predict a couple's likelihood of getting a divorce. Education level is another determinant of divorce. People who have earned at least a bachelor's degree are less likely to divorce than those who did not complete college.
Credit card debt increases worryingly in August
Consumer borrowing in Virginia and around the country slowed in August according to a report released by the U.S. Federal Reserve on Oct. 6. The central bank says the nation's consumer debt load rose by $13.1 billion in August after surging by $17.7 billion in July, but the increase is far lower than the $16 billion predicted by experts. The figures pegged the annual rate of credit growth back to 4.2 percent. The annual rate stood at 5.7 percent at the end of July.
Making a decision about divorce
Some married Virginia residents might struggle with a decision over whether they should get a divorce. In some cases, it may be easier for people outside of the marriage to assess the situation than for the spouses themselves. However, there are some situations that could mean divorce is the only solution.
Child support: a common reason for wage garnishments
Wage garnishments are a growing problem for many workers in Virginia and across the United States. Wage garnishments may be imposed to collect debts after a judgment has been entered against a debtor. Creditors may also seize bank accounts and other property in some cases until the debt is satisfied if a judge has authorized it.
Financial implications of certain assets
For many Virginia residents, going through a divorce can be a difficult process especially if they have amassed a number of marital assets. When they have decided to end their marriage, they will need to determine which former spouse gets what. It is important to note, however, that there are financial implications to keeping certain assets.
Impact of bankruptcy filings on credit reports
Virginia debtors will experience both short- and long-term effects after filing for bankruptcy. Typically, people falling behind on payments have declining credit scores. Although declaring bankruptcy represents a negative on a credit report, people often gain points on their credit reports in the immediate aftermath. Researchers determined that the short-term rebound occurs because the debtors' scores had dropped so low that the initial clearing out of debt improves their ratings.
