Tuesday, May 20, 2008

Research all your options before filing bankruptcy

The good thing about a business bankruptcy compared to a personal bankruptcy is they fact that so many companies do it as a way of restructuring their business that there is not the negative stigma around it. Some people can reach compromises and pay off their debts, either with the aid of a counselor or by themselves. Additionally, with Chapter 7, debtors can sign a "Reaffirmation Agreement" where they can keep certain assets like a car or house while continuing to pay a loan or mortgage. Many businesses file for bankruptcy because of the relief it provides owners drowning in credit problems with no way out of debt. For anyone with a pulse, this situation can be very difficult to handle. With Chapter 13, debts can be reduced and you have more time to pay off the debts that can't be discharged from either type of bankruptcy. However, if your spouse is listed as a joint debtor, sometimes called a co-debtor or co-signor, on any loan, credit card or other debt, your spouse can become liable for all of the debt as soon as your responsibility for the debt has been discharged in bankruptcy. To choose wisely, you should research all your options before filing and defaulting.