' File Bankruptcy More Than Once? - Law Offices of Robert M. Geller
CALL NOW!
FREE PHONE/VIRTUAL CONSULTATION

Is it Possible to File for Bankruptcy More than Once?

For most people, bankruptcy is a once in a lifetime experience. They use it as a tool to repair their financial standing and ensure they have the same opportunities in the future as someone who never faced financial hardship.

For some though, bankruptcy is not enough to change their approach to money. And in some very unfortunate cases, someone coming out of a bankruptcy with the best intentions encounters a serious financial crisis due to job loss or expensive medical issues. For these people, a second bankruptcy might be necessary.

Until the fall of 2005, it was fairly easy for people to file multiple bankruptcies. Federal laws have made this more difficult in order to prevent consumers from being taken advantage of by unethical bankruptcy professionals. Though more difficult than before, multiple bankruptcies in a lifetime are still possible when necessary.

What should you consider and what steps should you take if you think a second bankruptcy might be necessary?

Determine If You are Eligible to File for Bankruptcy Again

First, you need to determine if you are eligible to file again. Chapter 7 bankruptcy filers might need to wait eight years after their discharge date to file another Chapter 7. Chapter 13 filers will need to wait six years before they are eligible to file for Chapter 7. The shortest length of time anyone is eligible to file again is four years for original Chapter 13 filers now seeking Chapter 7. An experienced bankruptcy attorney can help you determine your eligibility for an additional bankruptcy.

Those filing for bankruptcy more than once will likely be required to take a financial management court and might also be required to work with a credit counselor. In most cases, these steps are required before he or she can begin filing for either Chapter 7 or 13.

Work with a Bankruptcy Attorney to Help You File

Once eligibility for second bankruptcies is established, the process of filing is fairly similar to what first-time filers face. Income requires must be met and a debt re-payment plan will be established for Chapter 13 filers. Working with a bankruptcy attorney during second filings is just as important as it is for first-time filers. The process is complicated and if you make mistakes when filing, your bankruptcy request can be denied. An attorney will ensure your paperwork is completed correctly and on time so your case is not thrown out of court.

The bankruptcy process can last anywhere from a few months to three years. During this time, it is important you make wise financial decisions and be aware of the consequences of financial mistakes. A second bankruptcy is often more avoidable than the first, so it is important you correct the mistakes you made the first time around. If your second filing was unavoidable for any of the reasons mentioned above, work closely with a financial expert who can offer advice on managing your finances, even when faced with uncontrollable circumstances.

If you would like to know more about filing for bankruptcy multiple times or you have any questions about bankruptcy, contact the Law Offices of Robert M. Geller at 813.254.5696.

Archive

Video Testimonials

Tampa Bankruptcy Law Blog

How Do I Find a Bankruptcy Attorney in Clearwater?

If you're facing financial hardships and are considering bankruptcy in Clearwater, finding the right attorney can be a critical decision....
Read More

Should I Sell My Home to Get Out of Debt?

Debt is a common modern problem. Whether it's credit cards, student loans, or medical bills, debt can cripple even the...
Read More

What to Ask a Bankruptcy Lawyer

What should you ask a bankruptcy lawyer? Financial problems can be incredibly stressful. One option that many people turn to...
Read More

Is It Easy to File for Bankruptcy?

Bankruptcy is a legal process that allows individuals and businesses to eliminate or reorganize their debts. It offers relief to...
Read More

How to Stay Motivated to Pay Off Debt

If you are struggling with debt, you are not alone. The average American has tens of thousands of dollars in...
Read More

Can I Fire My Bankruptcy Attorney?

Filing for bankruptcy can be overwhelming. Your bankruptcy attorney plays a crucial role in navigating you through the process. Unfortunately,...
Read More

Am I Responsible for My Parent’s Credit Card Debt?

As we grow older, our parents also age. Sometimes they become dependent on us in many ways. Even if they...
Read More

How to Hide from Debt Collectors

There are many ways to “hide” from debt collectors. You can ignore their calls, not answer your door, or ask...
Read More

Is Your Spouse Responsible for Credit Card Debt in Florida?

Debt can be overwhelming, especially when you're not sure who is responsible for it. That's why it's important to understand...
Read More

What Happens If You Ignore a Debt Collector?

Debt can be overwhelming. It’s easy to let bills pile up and miss payments, and before you know it, you...
Read More

Bankruptcy

For The Next 5 Days GET A FREE BOOK About Bankruptcy

Learn More

Infographics

We are A Debt Relief Agency.
We help people file for bankruptcy under the Bankruptcy Code

Pay Online Bankruptcy Courses Newsletter Subscription

Call For A Free Initial Consultation

813.254.5696

Tampa Office

Law Offices of Robert M. Geller, P.A.
807 West Azeele Street
Tampa, FL 33606
T: (813) 254-5696
T: (800) 853-7549
F: (813) 253-3405

Map And Directions

St. Petersburg Office

Law Offices of Robert M. Geller, P.A.
125 5th Street South
(Wells Fargo Financial Center)
2nd Floor, Suite G
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
T: (727) 532-3939

Map And Directions

Pasco Office

23526 State Road 54
Lutz, FL 33559
T: (813) 336-2320

Map And Directions