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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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Why sudden job losses put people at risk of bankruptcy

Roths Child Law

When they can't find a job that offers comparable pay, they may find themselves unable to pay their bills at all in facing foreclosure, repossession or lawsuits from creditors. Even successful professionals typically only have enough money in savings to cover their cost-of-living expenses for a month or two.

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Who Can Declare Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?

Sawin & Shea

Chapter 7 is the most common form of bankruptcy for individuals and families, and it allows you to discharge many of your unsecured debts within only a few months. Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a form of personal bankruptcy that liquidates filers’ assets to discharge qualifying unsecured debts. What is Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?

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What Happens to My Personal Loan After Bankruptcy?

Sawin & Shea

If you fail to repay an unsecured personal loan, the lender cannot repossess your assets. Common unsecured loans include: Bank loans with no collateral. In addition to unsecured personal loans, there are other types of unsecured debts, such as: Medical bills. Repossession deficiency claims.

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Mistakes to avoid when filing for personal bankruptcy

Roths Child Law

If you are seeking to discharge unsecured debts like medical debts, credit card debts and unsecured loans, then you need to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. However, if you are dealing with secured debts like a mortgage or a car loan, then you need to file Chapter for 13 bankruptcy.

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Bankruptcy and Divorce: Should I File Before or After?

Sawin & Shea

Declaring Bankruptcy Before a Divorce If you’re on good terms with your spouse and are struggling with unsecured debts, you may want to consider filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy before your divorce. This can also simplify the divorce process because you won’t have to divide your unsecured debts when going through dissolution proceedings.