Financial troubles are incredibly stressful, especially when you don’t have steady employment. Many people wonder if bankruptcy is a path out of financial turmoil. But can you file bankruptcy if you don’t have a job?
The answer is yes, although there are some considerations to keep in mind.
Here’s what you need to know.
Bankruptcy Basics
Bankruptcy is a legal process. It enables individuals or businesses with debt to have their financial obligations discharged. It can provide relief from creditors and help them get back on their feet financially.
Several different types of bankruptcy are available, including Chapter 7 liquidation and Chapter 13 reorganization. Both types require debtors to submit certain documents, such as income statements and tax returns, to the court for review.
What’s the Impact of Employment Status?
Having a job isn’t necessary when you file for bankruptcy. However, it can make the process easier in some cases.
The bankruptcy court considers several factors when determining whether or not an individual qualifies for bankruptcy protection. This includes their income and their debts.
Having a job makes it easier to demonstrate your ability (or inability) to pay back those debts. If you’re interested in Chapter 13 bankruptcy, which requires debt repayment, you’ll need to prove to the court you have a source of income.
If you don’t have a way to meet your repayment obligations in a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you’ll likely need to file for Chapter 7 instead.
Alternatives to Bankruptcy
Bankruptcy isn’t right for everyone. If filing for bankruptcy isn’t an option due to your current situation, there are alternatives available that could help reduce your financial burden.
These include:
- Debt consolidation loans, which allow borrowers to combine multiple debts into one loan
- Credit counseling services, which offer guidance on budgeting and money management
- Debt settlement programs, which allow borrowers to negotiate with creditors
All of these options require time and effort on behalf of the borrower but could be beneficial in certain situations where filing for bankruptcy isn’t feasible or desirable.
Whether you qualify for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, or you opt to take another path that doesn’t include bankruptcy, working with an attorney can keep things on track. It’s possible to file for bankruptcy, but doing so is risky. Even a simple mistake could result in the dismissal of your case. Working with an expert ensures that things are more likely to go as planned. It also helps you prepare for life after bankruptcy.
Before making any decisions regarding filing for bankruptcy without a job it’s important to speak with an experienced attorney who can provide advice tailored specifically to your situation. With the right knowledge and support system in place, you can make the best decision based on your circumstances.
To learn more or to schedule a consultation, contact R. Flay Cabiness, II, P.C. at (912) 417-5041 (Brunswick, GA); (912) 809-2141 (Hazlehurst, GA) or; (912) 324-3176 (Jesup, GA) to schedule a consultation.
