Top Three Bankruptcy Tips

Filing for bankruptcy can be an overwhelming experience. Many people postpone filing to avoid the intimidation and anxiety they assume they’ll feel once they file. The good news is bankruptcy can be simple and pleasant, especially if you take the time to understand the process in advance and work with someone who is experienced with filing.

What are three of the best bankruptcy tips that will eliminate the anxiety of filing?

1. Request Your Credit Report in Advance

One of the best things you can do is arm yourself with knowledge before filing.

A common bankruptcy mistake is leaving out a creditor when you file. You are responsible for reporting all of your debts and all of your income when you file, and you should never assume you know what you owe without double checking.

By requesting a copy of your credit report – something you can do for free – you’ll be able to compare the information you have with what’s listed on your report. You can deal with any potential mistakes on your report before filing and you can be sure the information you report when you file accurately matches your report.

2. Register for Credit Counseling as Soon as Possible

As a pre-requisite to filing for bankruptcy, you’ll need to participate in a credit counseling course. The course is designed to help you determine if bankruptcy is the right option for you. You’ll be given a certificate once you complete the course and you’ll need to submit the certificate for your bankruptcy to be approved by the court.

People filing for bankruptcy can complete the credit counseling course up to six months before they file and the sooner you complete it the better. Far too often people wait until the last minute and their bankruptcy must be postponed because they need to complete the course.

It’s also important to complete the course sooner rather than later because it can help you determine if there are other options besides bankruptcy that could help you with your finances.

Bankruptcy is an excellent tool for helping people deal with crippling debt, but it’s not right for everyone. The credit counseling course helps you analyze your specific situation and determine if bankruptcy is really the best option.

For more information about credit counseling, check out this information from the federal court system.

3. Work with an Experienced Bankruptcy Attorney

An experienced bankruptcy attorney is well worth the investment. He or she will guide you through the complex process of filing and help you avoid mistakes that can occur along the way.

Working with an attorney right from the start is a great way to keep the bankruptcy process organized and under control. And it can bring peace of mind knowing that if any questions are raised or any creditors dispute your filing you have someone on your side ensuring your rights are protected. Even if your bankruptcy runs smoothly from beginning to end it helps to know someone is in your corner.

A bankruptcy attorney can answer your questions, help you stay on track, and make sure you meet all of your obligations when filing.

If you’d like to speak to someone about filing for bankruptcy or you want more tips on making sure the process goes smoothly and achieves your goals, contact the Law Office of Robert M. Geller at 813.254.5696 to schedule a consultation.