One of the rules about filing for bankruptcy is that you can’t purposefully try to cheat a creditor out of their goods or services and then turn around and discharge those debts via bankruptcy. Most of the time, that’s not a problem. The majority of people are deeply...
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Bankruptcy
The financial pitfalls of mismanaged credit cards
When do we spend our money on every month? Bills, food (for home preparation), and housing are essential, but what else entices your wallet, purse or satchel to make an appearance? Clothing and shoes, jewelry, dining out, streaming services (tv, music, movies, etc.),...
Older Americans filing for bankruptcy more often
Over the past two decades, bankruptcy rates have surged, particularly for older Americans. They’re now declaring bankruptcy at a higher rate than they did before, and that has many implications when it comes to retirement planning, estate planning and the other...
Get the truth about these 4 bankruptcy myths
It’s not a surprise that there are myths about bankruptcy because it has long been a taboo subject in America. Many people worry about choosing bankruptcy and how they will be perceived, but the reality is that this protection is designed to help people who are in...
Can you discharge your medical debt in bankruptcy?
Over two-thirds of bankruptcies in the United States stem – at least in part – from medical debt. Some people file after experiencing an unexpected health emergency. Yet, others do so after their medical bills pile up over time. If medical debt has led you to the...
Understanding the differences between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13
Different chapters of bankruptcy provide different types of protection. Most individuals who are struggling with debt will file for either Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy protection. Understanding the differences between the two is important for determining the...
Can filing for bankruptcy stop an eviction?
Families across Virginia are struggling to get by. Many don’t qualify for unemployment, and the stimulus checks do not go far enough to cover everyday expenses or rent payments. After falling behind on rent, families may be concerned about what will happen next....
Know how an automatic stay can benefit you
Filing for bankruptcy puts all your creditors on an even level because you don’t get to pick and choose who you’re going to pay what to or when. Instead, the payments go to creditors based on the specific order the law sets forth. In order to ensure there isn’t any...
How can you rebuild your credit score after bankruptcy?
If you’re considering bankruptcy, one of your biggest fears may be how it will impact your credit score and creditworthiness long term. This is a source of hesitation for many people facing significant debt. It’s true that bankruptcy stays on your credit...
Credit card interest and fees topped $113 billion in 2018
Consumers throughout Virginia and the rest of the U.S. paid credit card companies more than $113 billion in fees and interest in 2018, according to the New York Federal Reserve's latest Quarterly Report on Household Debt and Credit. That figure represents a 12%...