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Secured vs Unsecured Debt: Everything You Need to Know

Sawin & Shea

They may use collection agencies , or they may sue you (asking the court to garnish wages, take an asset, or put a lien on your home). One of the benefits of declaring bankruptcy is that debt collectors cannot try to collect on debts that were discharged in bankruptcy.

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What is the Difference Between Secured and Unsecured Debt?

Sawin & Shea

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. What is Secured Debt? Secured debts are a type of debt backed by an asset that is used as collateral. What is Unsecured Debt?

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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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Automatic Stay Timeline

Sawin & Shea

It stops: Debt collection efforts Foreclosures Wage garnishments Civil lawsuits Utility shutoffs Most other creditor actions to collect pre-bankruptcy debts The stay helps facilitate the goals of bankruptcy by preventing creditor collection efforts and allowing time for orderly debt restructuring or liquidation.

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What Happens to My Personal Loan After Bankruptcy?

Sawin & Shea

Additionally, you can discharge a loan regardless of whether the original lender has the loan or whether the lender sold it to a collection agency or debt buyer. Even if a creditor has initiated a wage garnishment you can still discharge the unsecured loan in Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

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Questions to Ask a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyer Before Filing for Bankruptcy

Sawin & Shea

Chapter 7 bankruptcy, also known as liquidation or straight bankruptcy, can help those having financial difficulties clear away various types of debts. When you file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, the Court will place an automatic stay upon filing, which stops creditors from collecting payments, garnishing wages, or repossessing property.

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Debtor Education Course After Filing for Bankruptcy

Sawin & Shea

There are some key differences between these two types of bankruptcy.