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Secured vs Unsecured Debt: Everything You Need to Know

Sawin & Shea

Declaring bankruptcy will discharge most types of debt but not others. Before you declare bankruptcy, it’s crucial to understand how the law treats the concept of secured vs unsecured debt. It matters because not all debts are equal in the eyes of the law. Secured vs Unsecured Debt: What’s the Difference?

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What is the Difference Between Secured and Unsecured Debt?

Sawin & Shea

While bankruptcy itself can also be scary, it is often the best option if you have too much debt to get a handle on your financial situation. However, which type of bankruptcy you file will also depend on what kind of debt you have. Secured and unsecured debt is handled differently in Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13.

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Debtor Education Course After Filing for Bankruptcy

Sawin & Shea

Since 2005, a debtor education course from an approved provider is mandatory for anyone who files for bankruptcy. Debtor education classes provide customized guidance based on your unique circumstances. Since then, bankruptcy filers have been required to take both a bankruptcy credit counseling course and a debtor education course.

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Can You Reaffirm a Debt in Chapter 13?

Sawin & Shea

Have additional questions regarding bankruptcy or reaffirming secured debts? A reaffirmation agreement is a document that re-obligates a debtor to repay a particular debt, such as a car loan, mortgage, or other loan type. There is a Chapter 13 Plan that controls how various debts are treated.

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How are Medical Bills Treated in Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

Sawin & Shea

Filing for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 Bankruptcy: Chapter 7 will wipe out (discharge) your medical debt along with other unsecured debt, but you must have low enough income to pass the means test in order to qualify for it. These are categorized as priority unsecured debts. #7.

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Does Filing for Bankruptcy Eliminate Debt?

Sawin & Shea

Chapter 7 is also known as the “liquidation bankruptcy” because it allows individuals to liquidate all non-exempt assets to help pay off their debt. Most Debtors, however keep everything they have. Unlike Chapter 7 bankruptcy, Chapter 13 allows debtors to create a repayment plan over three to five years. Where Do I Go From Here?

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Bankruptcy Chapter 7 vs 13: Which Is The Best Option?

Debt Free Colorado

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is appropriate for unsecured debtors. If you have a large amount of credit card debt or high medical costs that you can’t pay, Chapter 7 may allow you to start again. Chapter 7 is a disaster when it comes to secured debt. . The means test decides who can seek debt relief.