Financial problems which seem to be spiraling out of hand are not uncommon. There are many rowing in the same boat. In case you find yourself overwhelmed with the enormous debt, you need to find a solution at the earliest. Since most creditors and debt collectors want you to remain under debt, they will never let you know that bankruptcy is one of the best solutions for huge financial debts. You need to consult a bankruptcy attorney to find out which alternative suits your condition best.
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
People who find themselves buried under a huge debt due to credit card bills, medical bills or any other unsecured debt can get a fresh start through Chapter 7 bankruptcy. In most Chapter 7 bankruptcy cases, an automatic stay is put in effect as soon as the case is filed. This is the biggest asset as it puts a freeze on all collection initiatives taken by creditors and debt collectors including foreclosure, repossession, wage garnishment and even threatening phone calls and letters. This is the biggest relief one could get as these collection and harassment initiatives take a toll on debtors.
Getting a discharge order in Chapter 7 bankruptcy case (within 4-5 months of filing) eliminates most of the unsecured debts (credit card debt etc.). In case collection agencies or creditors try collecting that money, they will be violating court orders which is a punishable offense.
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
Apart from Chapter 7, other alternatives are also available. People having a large income, many secured debts and high-value assets cannot opt for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. For such people, Chapter 13 is the available alternative. In this case, a 3-5 year repayment plan is devised which allows individual debtors time to catch up on due amounts without any harassment from collection agencies or any mounting dues, repossession or foreclosure threats. Post the repayment plan, any unsecured debts that remain are eliminated.