If you are like many people in Oregon who are struggling with debt, then you may have considered filing for bankruptcy. For some, however, the number of bankruptcy options available to individuals can complicate the decision. At The Law Office of Kim Covington, we often consult with people who are unsure which option is right for their situation. In this post then, we will discuss how to know if filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy is right for you.
When considering filing for Chapter 13, it is first important to determine whether or not you are eligible. Like other bankruptcy options, there are certain requirements that must be met to qualify for Chapter 13 protection. According to the United States Courts, these qualifications include having secured and unsecured debts that do not exceed the specified amounts, not having had a prior bankruptcy petition dismissed for certain reasons and completing the required credit counseling through an approved agency.
Before filing for Chapter 13, it is also important to consider whether you will be able to make regular monthly payments for the next three to five years. According to the United States Courts, people who file Chapter 13 bankruptcy must repay all, or part, of their debts in monthly installments to their creditors. For this reason, it is important to have a steady job that you can depend on, or someone you can count on to help you make these payments.
Another factor to think about before seeking Chapter 13 bankruptcy protection is your budget. Do you have extra funds after paying your basic expenses each month? Will you be able to live on, and stick to, a tight budget during your repayment plan? The income you have left over each month is generally what you will use to make the payments during your Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Therefore, it is important to understand that your disposable income will likely be significantly reduced until you have completed your repayment plan.
For more information about debt relief options, please visit our Chapter 13 bankruptcy page.
