Chapter 13 Bankruptcy & Mortgage FAQ

You may be considering bankruptcy, if you’re struggling to pay your mortgage. Bankruptcy is certainly not a step you should take. It will have serious impacts on your finances for years to come. However, a bankruptcy may stall a foreclosure process and allow you to reorganize your finances and save your house.

What is a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

Bankruptcy is the procedure where you seek government protection. This procedure can be asked by you or your lenders. There are six kinds of bankruptcy, that can be named by the chapter of the bankruptcy code which describes them. There are two types of personal bankruptcy: Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Chapter 13 permits you to create a repayment plan to reorganize your finances and pay your creditors back through a trustee. If the court approves the repayment program, you can decrease debt payments to an affordable level without foreclosing on a mortgage, thus saving your house.

Can I Quit a Mortgage Foreclosure by Filing a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

It is likely to stall, and even cease, a foreclosure using a Chapter 13 bankruptcy. However, it’s by no means a done deal. When you file for bankruptcy, a trustee will appear over your case and request that you prepare a repayment plan to reorganize your debts. Chapter 13 is the bankruptcy type where you’re more inclined to save your property. When you file for this, all debts are automatically stalled; this comprises mortgage payments. If you’re able to create a repayment plan where you can manage your mortgage payments, you could prevent the foreclosure entirely. However, if you don't have an income, or you can't manage reasonable mortgage obligations, you will still lose your house and endure the negative effects of a bankruptcy.

Should I File Bankruptcy Under Chapter 7 or 13 to Save My Mortgage?

Chapter 13. When you file under Chapter 7, you lose nearly all hands within any nonexempt property. The Bankruptcy Code enables borrowers to keep certain exempt property, but that doesn’t include secured loans such as a mortgage. You may claim up to $18,875 of your own interest in a house or burial scheme, $2,975 at a car, furnishings and appliances not exceeding $475 in value for each product, $1,225 in jewelry, in addition to some other exemptions. Read a comprehensive list in the State Bar of California's website. The rest of your nonexempt property (including your home) will be sold and utilized to repay your creditors. Chapter 13 bankruptcies are different; you have much more control. As an example, you’ll have the responsibility of reorganizing your finances, which might include liquidizing assets and consolidating debts to guard the property you wish to keep.

What Are the Effects of Filing Under Chapter 13 to Save My Mortgage?

Many and painful. Bankruptcy will have long-term and far-reaching impacts on your credit, employment and housing. Bankruptcy filings are public records, and anyone can access them. Credit cards will boost interest rates on your accounts. Employers may consider you a higher risk worker, particularly in posts that involve handling cash. Landlords frequently refuse tenants using a bankruptcy background, and you’ll need to wait for a long time (3 to 7, depending on the lender) before a lender will grant you a mortgage. Consider all other options first.

Where Can I Find Help When Filing For Chapter 13?

Bankruptcy is a intricate legal process; you need a lawyer. Bankruptcy may save you from unbearable debt or sink you further; employ the best lawyer you can afford. Ask a lawyer, or friend you trust, to recommend one. The State Bar of California has an online list of certified lawyer referral services you can consult. If you can’t afford a lawyer, California's legal services site can help you find a program that provides free or low-cost legal aid. Other states have similar programs.

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