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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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How Much Debt is Needed to File for Bankruptcy?

Sawin & Shea

Firstly, you need to understand the difference between unsecured and secured debts. Unsecured debts refer to debts that don’t have collateral. Secured debts refer to debts with collateral, like house payments and car payments. Will Bankruptcy Eliminate All of My Debts?

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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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Will Bankruptcy Erase ALL of My Debt?

Sawin & Shea

A Chapter 13 Plan can help get you back on track with secured debts that you are behind on, like house or car payments. It can also force unsecured creditors to take what the bankrutpcy law says you can afford to pay, many times cents on the dollar. Student Loans. Debts That Can Be Eliminated.

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Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Hardship Discharge: Am I Eligible?

Sawin & Shea

The trustee and judge will look at whether you’ve met the three criteria listed above and determine whether your debt itself is fully eligible for this type of discharge. Ineligible types of debt include secured debts, priority debts, and nondischargeable debts.

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Nearly Half of Indiana Facing Medical Debt

Sawin & Shea

Out of the reported debt statistics, 35% of all debts in collections were medical, which surpassed other forms of debt. 25% of debts in collections were credit card related, and 20% were student loan debts. What Should I Do If I Have Medical Debts?

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Does Filing for Bankruptcy Eliminate Debt?

Sawin & Shea

With Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you’ll be able to eliminate most unsecured debts, which includes: Credit card debt Medical debt Personal loans Payday loans Utility bills It’s important to keep in mind, though, that Chapter 7 will not eliminate all kinds of debt. Where Do I Go From Here?