What Are my Choices
I'm in debt, what are my choices?
1. Do Nothing
2. Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
3. Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
4. Debt Settlement
5. Debt Consolidation
- DOING NOTHING may be your best alternative if you have no income, (or only income that creditors can't touch, such as Social Security) no property to lose, and do not mind continuing calls from creditors.
- A CHAPTER 7 BANKRUPTCY is the best solution for some people. You may or may not qualify. Under the new bankruptcy law, all debtors must take a "means test." The bottom line is that if your income is above the average for your state, OR you can afford to pay more than $100 per month to your creditors after all of your reasonable expenses are taken into consideration, then you will probably not be allowed to file a Chapter 7.
- CHAPTER 13 BANKRUPTCY is a solution wherein you make monthly payments to a court appointed trustee for a period of 3 years if your income is below the state median, or 5 years if it is above the state median. The amount you pay is as much as you can afford to pay - meaning that your reasonable living expenses are subtracted from your income, and everything left over goes to the trustee.
A Chapter 13 may be your best option if:
(a) you owe large tax debts that cannot be eliminated by a Chapter 7 and you want to stop the interest and penalties by forcing the IRS to take a payment plan;
(b) you own real estate that is being foreclosed on; or
(c) you don't qualify for a Chapter 7 and you want to stop lawsuits against you.
- Debt Settlement is for those who can afford to pay something toward their debts but cannot afford the entire amount; and for those who do not qualify for a Chapter 7 but do not want the hassle of a Chapter 13. This is what we facilitate. We can help you settle your debt for about 55% of what you owe with zero interest. Click Here to Request a Quote or to Speak with a LDD Counselor!
- Debt Consolidation is offered by "non-profit" agencies that are really working for your creditors. They can reduce the interest on your loans, but you will still end up paying 100% of the principal.
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