' What Is a Bankruptcy Fraud? - Law Offices of Robert M. Geller
CALL NOW!
FREE PHONE/VIRTUAL CONSULTATION

Should You be Concerned about Bankruptcy Fraud?

If your intention to file for bankruptcy is above-board and you have no intention of taking advantage of your situation, bankruptcy fraud has likely never crossed your mind. If you do not intend to commit fraud, why should you be concerned with the laws regarding it? Unfortunately, people with the best intentions filing for bankruptcy have run into issues with fraud and to avoid these issues, you need to be sure you understand what you can and cannot do.

Bankruptcy fraud covers a variety of actions. Fraud can occur if a filer:

• Conceals income or assets
• Submits a false written or verbal statement
• Assumes large debt immediately before filing
• Fails to answer questions or leaves blanks spaces on bankruptcy paperwork
• Files a tax return that varies from other financial information

If you are able to prove any misstep was done unknowingly, you might escape fraud charges. However, proving your intention can be difficult. This is why it is so important to have the experience of someone familiar with bankruptcy laws. Even an innocent mistake can appear to be intentional, so you need to tread very carefully to avoid problems.

Avoiding Bankruptcy Fraud

The most important thing you can do when filing for bankruptcy is to be as honest and open about your assets as possible. Any property you own must be reported when you file and the value of that property must be listed accurately. Additionally, you are not permitted to transfer the property to someone else. Sheltering property in this way can cause your case to be dismissed, so if you have recently transferred ownership of any of your assets, share this information with your attorney.

Filers are also limited in the number of times they are permitted to file for bankruptcy in any given time period. You have the option of filing for bankruptcy more than one time, but you must wait several years before doing so. These rules apply even if you relocate and file in a different state.

Finally, your bankruptcy paperwork must be complete. Leaving blank spaces can trigger a dismissal of your case. Even if you were waiting until you learned more or wanted to ask a question before filling in the space, you cannot submit the documents to the court until they are complete.

Filing for bankruptcy is a process and people often have questions throughout. Attempting to go it alone can be more work than necessary. It can also create serious problems for your financial situation. If you are ready to file for bankruptcy or you need assistance sorting through the paperwork and filing process, contact Robert M. Geller at 813.254.5696.

Archive

Video Testimonials

Tampa Bankruptcy Law Blog

Do Both Spouses Have to File Bankruptcy?

For some couples, filing for bankruptcy is the best way to get out from under crippling debt. But what if...
Read More

Will Bankruptcy Ruin My Life?

Bankruptcy is a legal solution for people struggling with unmanageable debt. It can be a difficult decision to make. In...
Read More

Can Bankruptcy Take Inheritance?

Are you considering bankruptcy? Do you have concerns about your assets? Can bankruptcy take your inheritance? Here’s what you need...
Read More

Can You Go to Jail for Filing Bankruptcies?

Bankruptcy is a difficult decision. However, it can be necessary if you are struggling with debt. This is true whether...
Read More

Can You File Bankruptcy If You Don’t Have a Job?

Filing for bankruptcy is an intimidating prospect. Unemployment adds another layer of complexity to the situation. Can you file for...
Read More

Who Pays for Bankruptcies?

When a debtor files for bankruptcy, the court discharges the majority of their debt. This means that the creditors must...
Read More

Do You Have to Go to Court to File for Bankruptcy?

If you are considering filing for bankruptcy, one of the biggest questions you may have is whether or not you...
Read More

Can You Rent After Bankruptcy?

Filing for bankruptcy can be an overwhelming experience, and it’s important to understand the implications of this process before you...
Read More

Can You File Bankruptcy on Unemployment Benefits?

If you’re considering filing for bankruptcy due to financial hardship, it can be helpful to understand the various options available....
Read More

Do Bankruptcies Show Up on Background Checks?

The decision to declare bankruptcy can be difficult, and it is important to be aware of the potential consequences. One...
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