Seven Signs You Should Probably File Bankruptcy
Filing bankruptcy is usually one of the last things people want to do when they’re struggling financially. If you’re like most people, you’ve probably overlooked bankruptcy even though it’s the most obvious solution to your financial troubles. This is true even when there are clear signs you should file bankruptcy. Let’s take a look at some of the most common signs that you should probably file bankruptcy.
Sign #1: You rob Peter to pay Paul.
If you’re skipping one bill just so you can pay another it’s a strong sign that bankruptcy may be a better solution. Also, skipping payments on essential services such as electricity and water is a sign that bankruptcy may help you solve your financial problems.
Sign #2: You defaulted on your loan.
If you’ve already defaulted on one or two loans it’s a sure sign that you’re insolvent. This is especially true if you’ve defaulted on loans that have small minimum payments such as a credit card. Being unable to pay $20 or $30 a month is a sign that you finances are in serious trouble.
Sign #3: You’ve been sued.
If creditors have filed lawsuits against you and won, it’s a sign that you may need to file bankruptcy. Creditor lawsuits are just the beginning of a more aggressive campaign to seize your assets. Creditors who can win judgments against you have the power to seize your bank accounts via levies and garnish your wages.
Sign #4: You have no savings or retirement.
If you’ve spent all of your disposable income on debt payments and have been unable to save or invest in your retirement, it’s probably time to file bankruptcy. Chapter 7 bankruptcy will discharge most unsecured debts, freeing up more of your income so that you can save for the future.
Sign #5: You suffer from stress caused by debt.
If you have anxiety attacks or feel depressed by your financial problems, filing for bankruptcy can offer relief. The constant pressure of creditor calls, lawsuits, the threats of garnishment and levies is stressful. Never having enough money for the things that matter can create ongoing, unrelenting stress negatively impacts your health.
Sign #6: You’re facing foreclosure.
If your mortgage lender is threatening to foreclose on your home, it may be time to file bankruptcy. Filing bankruptcy gives you an opportunity to keep your home and comfortably catch up on back mortgage payments.
Sign #7: You’re unemployed or underemployed long-term.
If you find yourself not earning enough money to pay your bills, it may be time to file bankruptcy. Unemployment and underemployment are two of the leading causes of loan defaults.
If you want to find out if it’s time for you to file bankruptcy, call us today.
Categorized in: Debt, Filing Bankruptcy