Bankruptcy ? Bankruptcy Myths

Bankruptcy has long been a big question mark in the eyes of the consumer. After all they don't teach us about bankruptcy in school. More often than not, a person's view of bankruptcy is largely developed by either their parents or close relatives personal views or dealings with bankruptcy, or a persons view is based on what they see as far as ads etc. regarding bankruptcy. Too often these ads are simply put together by bankruptcy attorneys that want your business. Bankruptcy is big business. With 1,597,462 personal bankruptcy filings being made during the calendar year in 2004 you can see that there is a lot of money to be made by bankruptcy attorneys. While not all bankruptcy attorneys are in it for the money it is apparent by the plethora of advertisements online or on TV that make claims such as you'll be on your way to good credit it no time, or claims that it's easy to file that there are bankruptcy attorneys with their own personal gains at the top of their mind.

Here is a list of myths or untrue statements that I have come across when researching bankruptcy that I wanted to share with you, the consumer.

All Debts are Erased When you File for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Protection.

This is simply untrue. Don't believe anyone who says this to you. You will find out quickly that there are certain debts that can't be erased. These debts include and child support or alimony, student loans, or any fraudulent debt. Although some legal settlements may be removed it's not guaranteed.

Filing for Bankruptcy Protection Will Improve Your Credit Rating.

No it will not. This is used in several unscrupulous bankruptcy attorneys' advertisements. Be wary of anyone telling you this. The fact is bankruptcy is by far the worst and most damaging mark you credit report can receive. Other negative factors may stay on your credit report for 7 years; bankruptcy can be there for up to 10 years.

Bankruptcy is an Easy and Pain Free Process.

Some bankruptcy attorneys use this in their advertising as well. This is a statement that is false as it is not an easy choice for most consumers. Bankruptcy is one of the harder choices a consumer will make and the aftermath that may develop after a bankruptcy can create long lasting personal problems. Relationship problems, trouble getting a job that requires a clean credit history, or even dealing with the personal stigma attached to bankruptcy can make it difficult for a long time. If someone tells you this is an easy choice they are not looking to help you but rather to profit from your hardships.

While bankruptcy may be unavoidable for some individuals due to hardships that they may be experiencing, bankruptcy is not for everyone. Bankruptcy attorneys should try to find other solutions for you before recommending their own help. Review your options before making your decision, as this may have a long term impact and not provide the quick fix some look for when choosing bankruptcy protection.

Article written by Richard Munster

Rick Munster is the Media Planner for Debt Reduction Service, http://www.debtreductionservices.com When he's not busy media planning he can be found writing, hiking or finding a nice lake to drop a line into.



IVA Information

If you're thinking about an IVA, it is essential to... Read More

Bad Credit Home Loan To Get You Out Of Debt

A "bad credit home loan" can help you climb your... Read More

How to Negotiate Debt Settlement

People over extend themselves financially as a result of a... Read More

Is There Any Way To Get Out Of Debt?

In this era where we are bombarded daily with commercials... Read More

The Last Debt Solution Should Be Bankruptcy

A debt solution like bankruptcy should really only be used... Read More

Debt Elimination Is The Key to Financial Freedom

If you want financial freedom, the first thing that you... Read More

Debt Getting You Down? - Make a List!

Debt is not much fun and when faced with it,... Read More

You Can Make Financial Resolutions Anytime

The New Year often brings with it a desire to... Read More

The New Bankruptcy Law -- How Will It Affect Debt Negotiation?

In April 2005, Congress made sweeping changes in U.S. bankruptcy... Read More

Mr. Cheapies Frugal Budget Tips

So you feel like a hamster spinning your wheel? The... Read More

Bank Like a Banker

The business of banking has changed dramatically over the last... Read More

Bankruptcy Abuse

Bankruptcy is little more than a smack on the hand... Read More

Individual Voluntary Arrangements- A New Alternative to Bankruptcy

This May, the Department of Trade and Industry in the... Read More

Solutions to Single Mothers in Debt

As a single mother, lets admit it, times get tough.... Read More

Debt is The Master of Souls

Wholeness requires separation. In order for you to experience yourself... Read More

Eliminate Your Credit Card Debt, But How?

Can a debt consolidation loan eliminate your credit card debt?... Read More

Budgeting and Debt Management

Debt management (specifically unsecured) is the first step to taking... Read More

Personal Bankruptcy ? If Its Unavoidable, File Now

The Bankruptcy Abuse and Consumer Protection Act, signed into law... Read More

What is Debt Settlement?

Debt settlement is the process of negotiating with your creditors... Read More

Drowning in Debt? Tips and Tricks for Getting Out of Hot Water with Creditors

Do you, like millions of other Americans, feel like you're... Read More

Out of Credit Card Debt - Without Filing Bankruptcy

To be out of credit card debt is your dream... Read More

Bankruptcy 101

Bankruptcy still remains a mystery in the eyes of many... Read More

Take Careful Consideration Before Filing Bankruptcy

Filing bankruptcy is not fun! It is a last resort... Read More

How Do I Lower My Debt Burdens?

How do I lower my debts?There are several ways of... Read More

Assess Your Financial Attitude and Eliminate Your Debt Forever

Want to know if your attitude towards your finances is... Read More

If you'd like to keep up-to-date,
please complete the form below and we'll put you on the mailing list
to receive our twice-yearly newsletter for supporters

* Your email address:
* choes your language: