5 Reasons to File Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Immediately

TRI Writer • December 27, 2019

Have you been thinking about filing for bankruptcy? Do you wonder if bankruptcy is a good solution in your personal situation? Are you unsure whether or not your financial hardship is a good reason to turn to bankruptcy protections? Have you been putting it off, and you aren’t sure if there’s any rush to file or not?

When to File Now:

If you are in any of the following situations, you may want to meet with a local bankruptcy attorney to discuss filing right away.

Your Mortgage Lender is Foreclosing on Your Home:

If your home is in foreclosure, you can stop the process by filing bankruptcy. Once you file bankruptcy, the automatic stay stops lenders and creditors from taking any actions to collect (and this includes foreclosure proceedings). If you are filing Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you will have the opportunity to catch up on your mortgage payments and stay in your home. Chapter 7 bankruptcy benefits filers by wiping out the entire mortgage debt (as long as you file before the foreclosure process is complete). By filing Chapter 7, the homeowner isn’t stuck owing the difference between the auction price the bank was able to get during foreclosure and the balance on their mortgage (the deficiency). This is excellent news because without a bankruptcy even if the lender forgives the deficiency once the foreclosure is complete, the homeowner is likely to owe taxes on the forgiven deficiency since it will be considered income. Filing bankruptcy avoids this bad tax result in a Chapter 7, and may save the house in a Chapter 13.

Your Auto Lender is Going to Repossess Your Vehicle:

The automatic stay of bankruptcy also puts a stop to any efforts your lender may take to repossess your car. When filing Chapter 13, you have the opportunity to catch up by including past due payments in the plan. Both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy offer the possibility of getting your car back if it was repossessed recently. Discuss your options more thoroughly with a local Board Certified bankruptcy law specialist.

You Are Being Evicted:

If your landlord is evicting you, a bankruptcy filing will most likely stop the eviction. (But not for very long). However, if your landlord already got a judgment for possession (or, in other words, an eviction order from the court), bankruptcy cannot force your landlord to allow you to stay.

You Need to Stop a Lawsuit:

If you are being sued for breach of contract, medical debt, credit card debt, car accident damages, etc. filing bankruptcy stops the lawsuit. While bankruptcy will not stop all lawsuits such as setting your child support, it is essential to look into the possibility as it simply does not make sense to pay to defend against a lawsuit based on a debt that bankruptcy could discharge.

Your Income Is About to See a Significant Increase:

If you are about to start a higher paying job or you are expecting to inherit a property soon, you should talk to a bankruptcy attorney as quickly as possible. Your changing circumstances may change how the court will assess your ability to repay, and whether you are taking advantage of your creditors. Qualifying for Chapter 7 bankruptcy means satisfying the presumptions arising from the means test. The filer’s income is essential in determining whether or not they pass the test, enabling them to access the protections of Chapter 7 bankruptcy. With an income increase, the means test average income increases every month you wait to file. Filing bankruptcy sooner will increase your chances of having access to the benefits of Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Although even if you do pass the means test, the bankruptcy trustee will consider whether or not your income is higher than what you need to cover your monthly expenses. If it is, the trustee will likely recommend you turn to Chapter 13 bankruptcy instead. This analysis is done in our office before your case is filed. Means test challenges should never be a surprise to you.

If you are in an impossible financial situation and you aren’t sure where to turn, don’t give up. Turn to the experienced Tennessee and Georgia bankruptcy attorneys at Kenneth C. Rannick P.C. We help good people through bad times every day, and we can help you, too.

A statue of justice is sitting on a wooden table.
March 20, 2025
Struggling with debt? Learn seven key signs that it might be time to consider bankruptcy. Kenneth C. Rannick P.C. offers legal guidance to individuals in Chattanooga ready for a financial fresh start.
February 17, 2025
Can I Keep My Car If I File for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in Tennessee?
February 1, 2025
What Are My Options If I Am Drowning in Credit Card Debt in Tennessee?
November 21, 2024
What Are the Documents Required to Apply for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in Tennessee?
October 29, 2024
What is the Difference Between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 Bankruptcy in Tennessee?
June 24, 2024
Understanding Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Qualifications
April 5, 2024
Understanding the Role of the Trustee in Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
March 27, 2024
Understanding which Debts can be Discharged in Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
February 19, 2024
Protecting Your Assets in Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
January 30, 2024
Are you a Tennessee resident facing financial challenges and considering bankruptcy? If so, you may have heard about a relatively new option called Subchapter 5 bankruptcy. But what exactly is Subchapter 5 and how does it differ from traditional Chapter 11 bankruptcy? More importantly, what benefits does it offer to individuals and small businesses?  In this blog post, we will explore the world of Subchapter 5 bankruptcy and shed light on its advantages for Tennessee residents. Whether you're a struggling entrepreneur or an individual burdened by overwhelming debt, understanding the potential benefits of Subchapter 5 can help you make informed decisions about your financial future. What is Subchapter 5 Bankruptcy? Subchapter 5 is a relatively recent addition to the United States Bankruptcy Code, specifically designed to provide a streamlined and cost-effective bankruptcy process for small businesses and individuals. It was created as part of the Small Business Reorganization Act (SBRA) in 2019, with the aim of increasing accessibility to Chapter 11 bankruptcy relief. The Benefits of Subchapter 5 Bankruptcy Simplified Process: One of the key advantages of Subchapter 5 is its simplified and faster bankruptcy process. Unlike traditional Chapter 11 bankruptcy, which can be complex and costly, Subchapter 5 offers a more streamlined approach that is better suited for small businesses and individuals. Retention of Ownership: Under Subchapter 5, business owners have the opportunity to retain ownership and control of their company while developing a repayment plan. This allows for greater flexibility and the ability to restructure debts without losing ownership interests. Reduced Plan Requirements: Subchapter 5 eliminates certain stringent plan requirements that are typically associated with traditional Chapter 11 bankruptcy. This simplification of the plan process makes it more accessible to small businesses and individuals. Debt Repayment Plan: Subchapter 5 allows for the development of a debt repayment plan based on the individual's or small business's disposable income. This plan spans over three to five years, making it more manageable and achievable for debtors. Creditor-Friendly Approach: Subchapter 5 encourages creditor participation and collaboration, promoting consensual resolutions and a more amicable environment. This can lead to increased cooperation, reduced litigation costs, and ultimately, a more successful restructuring process. Subchapter 5 vs. Chapter 11 Bankruptcy: Understanding the Difference While both Subchapter 5 bankruptcy and traditional Chapter 11 bankruptcy share some similarities, there are significant differences between the two. The primary distinction lies in the complexity, cost, and requirements associated with each option. Subchapter 5 offers a more simplified and accessible bankruptcy process specifically tailored to the needs of small businesses and individuals, while Chapter 11 is better suited for larger businesses with more complex financial structures. If you're a Tennessee resident grappling with financial difficulties, Subchapter 5 bankruptcy may provide a viable solution. Its streamlined process, reduced plan requirements, and debtor-friendly approach make it an attractive option for small businesses and individuals seeking relief from overwhelming debt. Before making any decisions, it's essential to consult with a qualified bankruptcy attorney who can guide you through the process and help determine the best course of action for your specific situation. Remember, bankruptcy is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and the outcome will depend on various factors. However, understanding the potential benefits of Subchapter 5 bankruptcy can empower you to make informed decisions about your financial future. At Kenneth C. Rannick, P.C., we specialize in bankruptcy law and can provide the guidance and support you need during challenging times. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore your options for a fresh start. Take control of your financial future with Subchapter 5 bankruptcy. Let us help you navigate the path to a brighter tomorrow.
More Posts
Share by: