How Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Works?

Bankruptcy is a legal process that allows individuals or businesses to reorganize or eliminate their debts. Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a type of bankruptcy that is available to individuals who have a regular income and wish to pay their debts over time. It is often referred to as a “wage earner’s plan.”

In a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, the debtor proposes a repayment plan to the bankruptcy court that outlines how they will pay off their debts over a three to five year period. The repayment plan is based on the debtor’s income and expenses, and must be approved by the bankruptcy court. More here.

To be eligible for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, an individual must have unsecured debts (such as credit card debts or medical bills) that do not exceed $419,275 and secured debts (such as a mortgage or car loan) that do not exceed $1,257,850. The individual must also have a regular income and be able to make the required payments under the repayment plan.

One of the main benefits of Chapter 13 bankruptcy is that it allows the debtor to keep their assets, such as their home or car, while they are making payments under the repayment plan. This is because the repayment plan is structured to allow the debtor to catch up on missed payments and pay off their debts over time, rather than requiring them to sell their assets to pay off their debts immediately.

In addition to allowing the debtor to keep their assets, Chapter 13 bankruptcy also provides other benefits. For example, it can stop a foreclosure on a home or a repossession of a car, as long as the debtor is able to make the required payments under the repayment plan. It can also allow the debtor to pay off certain debts that may not be dischargeable in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, such as domestic support obligations (such as child support or alimony) or certain taxes.

The process of filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy begins with the debtor completing and submitting the necessary paperwork to the bankruptcy court. This includes a list of the debtor’s debts, assets, and income, as well as a proposed repayment plan. The debtor must also attend a meeting with a bankruptcy trustee, who will review the debtor’s paperwork and ask questions about their financial situation. Discover how we can help in here.

Once the bankruptcy court has reviewed and approved the debtor’s repayment plan, it will be put into effect. The debtor will then make payments to the bankruptcy trustee, who will distribute the funds to the debtor’s creditors according to the terms of the repayment plan.

It is important to note that while Chapter 13 bankruptcy can provide relief from overwhelming debt, it is not a quick or easy process. The debtor must make the required payments under the repayment plan for the duration of the plan, which can be three to five years. If the debtor is unable to make the required payments or fails to follow the terms of the repayment plan, the bankruptcy court may dismiss the case or convert it to a Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

Despite the challenges, Chapter 13 bankruptcy can provide a fresh start for individuals struggling with debt. It allows them to reorganize their debts and pay them off over time, while also allowing them to keep their assets. If you are considering filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, it is important to seek the advice of a bankruptcy attorney who can help you understand the process and determine if it is the right option for you.