This article provides an overview of the different types of bankruptcy. In addition, it covers a list of resources to help you learn how to file for bankruptcy.
Individuals and businesses often become overextended regarding their finances. They purchase items and services that go beyond their ability to pay. Some use various types of loans and credit, exacerbating their financial situation. Once the point is reached where expenses exceed their ability to pay, the only option is to file bankruptcy.
It is defined as the legally declared inability or impairment of the ability of an individual or organization to pay creditors. Creditors can request a declared state of bankruptcy to recoup a portion of what they are owed; however, in the overwhelming majority of cases, the bankrupt individual or organization initiates the process.
There are two main types of bankruptcies – Chapter 7 and Chapter 13.
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
Under Chapter 7, an individual’s assets are turned over to a trustee. The assets are then sold off to repay creditors. Once you’ve filed, the creditors cannot attempt to collect funds directly from you. You are no longer responsible for the debts once everything is sold and the creditors have been paid. Some debts cannot be discharged, such as alimony or child support, certain types of judgments and criminal fines, taxes, student loans, items of substantial value recently purchased, and properly executed contracts for land and automobiles.
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
The other popular type is Chapter 13. Under Chapter 13, debts are reorganized into a more manageable schedule and amount. Similar to Chapter 7, certain debts, such as alimony and child support, criminal fines and judgments, and student loans, cannot be discharged.
Determining which type is best is up to the individual. It is wise to consult a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and an attorney if you are considering filing.
If you’d like to learn about other law-related terms, view legal and law definitions in our Investigation Glossary. Also, if you need legal forms related to filing, view the complete list at Nolo.com.
Bankruptcy Resources, Tools, and Websites
The following tools may help conduct investigations related to bankruptcy cases. You’ll find information on filings, statistics and analysis, legislation information, and more.
Run a Bankruptcy Search at BeenVerified – If you need to search for information about a person’s financial background, use this simple online search tool to get the details. You can search by name, phone number, email address, or property address. Just enter the appropriate information and click enter. The search tool will search billions of public records and provide a list of names that match your search. Select the person you’re searching for and build a report. In addition, the online search will search for financial information, tax liens, and judgments.
Other Online Resources
- American Bankruptcy Institute – Comprehensive information about legislative news, statistics, judges’ opinions, code, and analysis.
- Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts – Federal forms, resources, administrators, and resources for learning about financial matters and the legal ramifications of declaring.
- American Board of Certification – The American Board of Certification certifies attorneys as business, consumer, and creditors’ rights law specialists.
- National Association of Bankruptcy Trustees – Contains news of upcoming seminars, links to legislative information about bankruptcy, and a listserv and library for members only.
- National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys – Contains information about the association and cases of interest.
- US Bankruptcy Law – Code courtesy of the Legal Information Institute of Cornell Law School.
Questions and Comments
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