Author Archives: Site Administrator
The role of a bankruptcy trustee in Florida
When an individual files for bankruptcy, his or her property is put into what is known as a bankruptcy estate. This estate is a separate entity from the individual who filed for bankruptcy protection. The person charged with overseeing this estate is called the trustee. What the trustee actually does depends on the type… Read More »
That call you received from a collection agency may be a scam
A phone that continually rings is the last thing you want to hear if you have delinquent debts. A bad situation becomes worse when you discover that collection actions are actually an elaborate confidence game. Many collection agencies already engage in aggressive tactics, including some that violate the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. However,… Read More »
Applying for a car loan after bankruptcy
People in Florida who have filed for bankruptcy might wonder if they can get an auto loan. While it is still possible to get a loan after a bankruptcy filing, it may be more difficult, and how the loan is applied for depends on the type of bankruptcy. A Chapter 7 filing is the… Read More »
How to buy a car during a Chapter 13 bankruptcy
A Florida resident who files for Chapter 13 bankruptcy will enter into a repayment plan lasting between three and five years for the debts that are owed. The repayment plan is overseen by the bankruptcy trustee, and any new debt that the filer wants to incur during that time must first be approved. In… Read More »
Baby boomers shouldering more and more bad debt
Bankruptcy can happen to anyone. Regardless of your age or financial standing, a sudden injury or illness can quickly deplete hard-earned resources. Often referred to as a fresh start, a Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 filing represents a financial “do-over” for those feeling the crushing weight of money problems beyond their control. Baby boomers… Read More »
Is there an ideal time to file for bankruptcy protection?
Constantly dealing with debt can be emotionally draining. Just when you think there is light at the end of the proverbial tunnel of debt, it is only an oncoming train loaded with more expenses that you are not ready to deal with. The continuous creditor phone calls, the warnings in the mail and the… Read More »
Benefits of business bankruptcy in Florida
Most people think of bankruptcy as a scary thing that should be avoided at all costs. However, for some small businesses, bankruptcy may be a way out from under crushing debt and limited income. By filing, it may be possible to retain some or all of a business owner’s property while also keeping the… Read More »
Making a Chapter 13 plan work
Chapter 13 bankruptcy involves an individual making payments to creditors through a trustee pursuant to a court-approved plan. These payments may be made either directly to the trustee or through deductions from a Florida worker’s paycheck. Payroll deductions may be more convenient for all parties, and it may increase the chances of making timely… Read More »
Chapter 13 hardship discharge
Florida residents who have difficulty paying their bills have several options for debt relief. Among those are different types of bankruptcy protection. Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 are personal bankruptcy options that offer similar benefits, but work differently. While Chapter 7 bankruptcy involves the liquidation of a debtor’s non-exempt assets with the proceeds being… Read More »
Bankruptcy and the homestead exemption
Florida residents who are filing for bankruptcy may be able to keep their homes under their state’s homestead laws. In fact, of all the states, Florida is one of the most protective in helping people keep their homes. Even without filing bankruptcy, registering some property as “homestead” usually prevents creditors from taking it. While… Read More »