Thinking about filing chapter 7 bankruptcy?

If so, you're probably looking for answers to a few simple questions like, "Do I qualify to file bankruptcy?" or "Does my spouse have to file?" or "Will filing for bankruptcy stop debt collectors from harassing me?" or "How soon can I file?" to name just a few.

If you've already tried alternatives such as debt consolidation, consumer credit counseling or debt consolidation loans and, you meet the new bankruptcy "means test", then chapter 7 may be your BEST option!

I always recommend consulting a bankruptcy attorney before deciding what to do! However, if you're like me, you probably can't afford to pay attorney consultation fees just to get the answers you need. That's why this site is free! I want to help you make an informed decision.

To find out if bankruptcy is right for you, use this FREE Legal Evaluation from a local bankruptcy attorney to help you decide.

A local bankruptcy attorney can help you understand the differences between Chapter 7 bankruptcy and Chapter 13 bankruptcy, so that you can make an educated decision about the best next step for you. Fill out the form above for a FREE bankruptcy case evaluation.

Although I've provided a wealth of FREE information that will answer most of your questions, let me be perfectly clear here; filing bankruptcy should be your last resort ! You always have the option to file yourself or hire an attorney but BEFORE deciding you should arm yourself with as much information as possible. You especially need to know the difference between Chapter 7 and 13 because they offer very different forms of protection.

IMPORTANT: A change to the bankruptcy law, effective October 17, 2005, requires credit counseling from a government approved organization sometime within the six month period before filing for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy or Chapter 13 Bankruptcy. Click Here for more info...

To file chapter 7 bankruptcy yourself you need a good understanding of the process, the proper forms, information on where to file this chapter of the federal bankruptcy code and, the willingness to fill out your own forms and file your own chapter 7 bankruptcy.

This site provides in-depth coverage of chapter 7 bankruptcy including FAQs, FREE on-line forms, information on how a chapter 7 works, the role of the Trustee, the bankruptcy discharge process and exemptions and alternatives to filing chapter 7 bankruptcy for people who wish to file their own bankruptcy.

Up Chapter 7 bankruptcy and Chapter 13 bankruptcy offer different forms of protection. If you're facing a financial crisis, a local bankruptcy attorney can help you determine whether Chapter 7 bankruptcy or Chapter 13 bankruptcy might be the right answer for you.

Generally speaking, Chapter 7 bankruptcy is intended to wipe the slate clean by discharging unsecured debt-debts like credit card debt, medical bills, and unsecured loans.

Chapter 13 bankruptcy, on the other hand, is intended to give a debtor time to catch up past due payments over a period of 3-5 years, while keeping secured property like houses and cars. (See Rich's Site on Chapter 13 bankruptcy rules.

Up What is Bankruptcy?
There are two types of consumer bankruptcy. Each is intended to help consumers in financial crisis, but the solutions offered are very different. Chapter 7 bankruptcy, or liquidation, is more common. A Chapter 7 bankruptcy can eliminate a lot of unsecured debt (credit cards, medical bills, old utility bills, unsecured personal loans, etc.), and can generally be completed within just a few months. In a Chapter 7 bankruptcy case, the trustee can liquidate (sell) non-exempt assets to pay creditors, but most people who file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy don't have any non-exempt assets, and so are able to keep their property while eliminating unsecured debts.

Up Chapter 7 bankruptcy may be your best option if you're:

• Unable to make minimum payments on your credit cards!
• Credit card debts, personal loans or other debts never seems to go down!
• Creditors constantly call demanding their money!
• Being called by one or more debt collectors demanding immediate payment!
• If debt collectors are demanding more money than you can afford!
• You're facing foreclosure, wage garnishment or other lawsuits!

In 2005, The Bankruptcy Reform Bill was passed and dramatically changed the consumer bankruptcy laws. However, it's still possible to file for bankruptcy and most people are eligible for relief under the new bankruptcy laws. The new laws are considerably more complex and it's wise to consult with a qualified bankruptcy attorney to see if you qualify. FREE legal evaluation