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're liable for your spouse's debts depends on your marriage and debt status and whether you live in a community property.
Common-Law Property States: When Can a Creditor Take Property?
Whether you are liable for your spouse's debts depends on whether you live in a community property or equitable distribution state.
Can I File for Bankruptcy Even If I Have a Job?
You can file for bankruptcy if you have a job. If you file for Chapter 7, your income can't exceed a certain amount, so the amount you earn matters. In Chapter 13, you must earn enough at your job to pay the amount required by a Chapter 13 plan. Learn why 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 bankruptcy rules that apply to military members.
Will Bankruptcy Affect My Ability to Join the Military?
Filing for bankruptcy can be considered positive to recruiters because of the steps taken to remedy financial issues. However, 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 I Keep My Tax Refund in Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?
If you’re considering filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you likely want to know what will happen to your tax return. Keeping or losing your tax return usually depends on whether you receive it before or after filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Learn about your tax refund options if you file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
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?
Except for friends, family, and business associates, most creditors don't get mad when you file for bankruptcy. Creditors know it's a part of doing business. Even so, there's little benefit to telling a creditor that you plan to file for bankruptcy. Find out why, along with 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're liable for your spouse's debts depends on your marriage and debt status and whether you live in a community property.
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 why filing for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy will impact the property portion of your ongoing divorce case, but not child custody and support issues.