Why You Should not File Bankruptcy
You know it. Something bad happened and in this economy, bankruptcies are at a record high. Over 1.5 million were filed in 2010 alone. But you know there are several reasons NOT to actually go through with it? It’s true. Here are seven very important reasons why you should not file bankruptcy:
1. Bad Credit: A bankruptcy will absolutely negatively effect your credit. A Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy can actually put a big black mark on your record for as long as 10 years, and your credit score drops 150 to 250 points. This could spell trouble in many avenues, including job hunting.
2. You CAN lose your property: A lot of people don’t know that if a creditor doesn’t get enough of a payout they can sue and depending on your state’s laws and your own personal situation, you can lose your car and your home if you have one.
3. Problems with Employment: Bankruptcy can do a lot more than make it difficult to rent or own a home or car because many employers now are requiring credit checks as part of their screening process.
4. It goes on your public record. A bankruptcy stays on your public record for 20 years, not something to be taken lightly.
5. You may still owe money: Declaring bankruptcy does not eliminate all debts. There are certain debts that cannot be discharged even after you say you’re bankrupt. This includes student loans, child support, alimony, back taxes, and certain judgments can’t be discharged.
There are alternatives to filing bankruptcy. The first recommended step is to find a credit card debt settlement program for a free consultation.
Evelyn Novelo is a guest author for Franklin Debt Relief, a leading credit card debt consolidation company in Chicago, Illinois.
