Much of the work that goes into a successful bankruptcy happens before you put pen to paper. Before you or your attorney completes the bankruptcy petition and other paperwork, carefully consider these issues: the timing of your filing, the best way to proceed if you're married, and special considerations for military personnel. You can find out about these issues, and more, below.
Debt and Marriage: When Do I Owe My Spouse's Debts?
Whether you are liable for your spouse's debts depends on whether you live in a community property or equitable distribution state.
Debts & Marriage: Debts & Property in Common-Law States
Whether you and your spouse are liable for each other's debts depends on where you live; in some states, most debts incurred by one spouse during the marriage are owed by both spouses.
Can I File for Bankruptcy Even If I Have a Job
Having a job won't stop you from filing for bankruptcy.
Multiple Bankruptcy Filings: When Can You File Again?
If you file for bankruptcy too soon after receiving a previous bankruptcy discharge, you won’t receive another bankruptcy discharge. Learn how often you can file for bankruptcy and wipe out your debts.
Can I File for Bankruptcy If I Am Unemployed?
You don't have to be employed to file for bankruptcy. But being unemployed can affect the success of your bankruptcy if you file for Chapter 13.
Bankruptcy for Military Personnel
Learn about some special bankruptcy rules that apply to military members.
Planning So You Can Keep a Tax Refund in Bankruptcy
Learn how some simple planning can allow you to keep your tax refund if you file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
Will Bankruptcy Affect My Ability to Join the Military?
The circumstances surrounding your bankruptcy can affect your chances of joining the military as well as your security clearance.
Credit Union Cross-Collateralization and Bankruptcy
Watch out for cross-collateralization with credit union accounts in bankruptcy -- debts you think are unsecured might be secured.
Can an undocumented immigrant file for bankruptcy?
If you are an undocumented immigrant, you can file for bankruptcy if you have a valid Social Security Number or ITIN.
Will My Bankruptcy Be Public Information?
A bankruptcy filing is a public record—find out when, where, and how a bankruptcy case can be viewed.
Should I Tell Creditors That I Plan to File for Bankruptcy?
Consider some of the pros and cons of providing creditors more information than necessary.
Debt and Marriage: When Do I Owe My Spouse's Debts?
Whether you are liable for your spouse's debts depends on whether you live in a community property or equitable distribution state.
Divorce & Bankruptcy: Which Comes First?
Not sure if you should file for bankruptcy or divorce first? Here's what to consider.
If I file for bankruptcy, will it affect my pending divorce case?
Learn how filing for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy will impact your ongoing divorce case.