More Articles by Cara O'Neill
Articles 111-120 out of 156
How to Calculate a Chapter 13 Monthly Payment
In Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you'll pay your creditors through a three- to five-year repayment plan—but calculating a plan payment can be complicated. We provide a simple shortcut that gives you a ballpark amount you can expect to pay.
Washington Bankruptcy Exemptions
Washington bankruptcy exemptions safeguard property, such as homes, cars, instruments, retirement accounts, and furnishings. Discover how bankruptcy exemptions impact assets differently in Chapters 7 and 13.
Exceptions to the Automatic Stay: Repeat Bankruptcy Filings
Bankruptcy's automatic stay prevents creditors from collecting debts from you. But if you've filed multiple cases within a year, you don't get the full benefit of the stay's protection. Learn more.
What Is Current Monthly Income for the Means Test?
Congress created the “means test” to determine if you qualify to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Whether you qualify for Chapter 7 depends largely on what the means test calculates as your “current monthly income.”
How to Fill Out Bankruptcy Schedule E/F: Creditors Who Have Unsecured Claims
Debtors must disclose all aspects of their finances when filing for bankruptcy. Priority and nonpriority unsecured debts are listed on Schedule E/F. Learn how to identify secured, priority, and unsecured debts.
How to Fill Out Bankruptcy Schedule C: The Property You Claim as Exempt
Bankruptcy Schedule C is one of the most important forms you must file: It tells the court and your creditors what property you claim as exempt under state or federal law.
How Does the Bankruptcy Trustee Get Paid?
The bankruptcy trustee is entitled to compensation for administering your case. But how the trustee gets paid depends on whether you filed for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Learn more.
The Debtor Education Course Requirement in Bankruptcy
Before receiving a Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 discharge, filers must complete a personal financial management course that teaches money and credit management skills.
Should I ignore a debt collector's calls and letters?
Ignoring debt collector's calls and letters is a strategy that works if you're judgment-proof or plan to discharge your debt by filing for bankruptcy. If not, develop a debt payment strategy before speaking with debt collectors.
What If I Lose My Job After I File for Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?
Chapter 13 filers who lose their job have a few bankruptcy options. Depending on your creditors, property, and the amount paid into the plan, the bankruptcy court might reduce your Chapter 13 payment or end your Chapter 13 with a hardship discharge.