QUESTION
Does filing bankruptcy clear my utility bills?
Asked on Aug 23rd, 2012 on Bankruptcy - Rhode Island
More details to this question:
I also want to know if I have to be working to file bankruptcy?
14 ANSWERS
Yes, filing for bankruptcy will clear utility bills. Utility companies are also required to continue to provide you with service as long as all post-filing amounts are paid, although they can require a deposit to do so. You need to be working to file a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, but not a Chapter 7. To be eligible to file a Chapter 7 you must NOT have had a large income (see info on the Means Test) over the past 6 months, regardless of whether or not you are currently working.
Answered on Aug 24th, 2012 at 11:32 PM
Criminal Law Attorney serving Fremont, CA
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Steven J. Alpers, A Professional Corporation
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It may clear past utility bills, but you may have trouble getting service if it is the same company. You do not have to be working.
Answered on Aug 24th, 2012 at 10:37 PM
You do not have to be employed to file bankruptcy.
Answered on Aug 24th, 2012 at 10:37 PM
Bankruptcy Attorney serving Grand Rapids, MI
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David Andersen & Associates, PC
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Bankruptcy will clear your utility bills. Utility companies will generally make you have security deposit afterwards. You do not have to be working to file bankruptcy.
Answered on Aug 24th, 2012 at 10:37 PM
Bankruptcy Attorney serving Washington, DC
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Law Offices of Diann C. Moseley
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No, if chapter 7 is filed. As to chapter 13, you need to have a regular source of income which could employment, social security, rent etc.
Answered on Aug 24th, 2012 at 10:37 PM
Bankruptcy Attorney serving Livonia, MI
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Charles J. Schneider, P.C.
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Yes, but not water.
Answered on Aug 24th, 2012 at 10:36 PM
Bankruptcy Law Attorney serving Livingston, NJ
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Law Office of Stuart M. Nachbar, P.C.
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It is not they clear them, but they in a 7 discharge them and in a 13 you pay them through the trustee.
Answered on Aug 24th, 2012 at 10:35 PM
Yes, it will discharge utility bills. No, you need not be working to file.
Answered on Aug 24th, 2012 at 10:35 PM
Criminal Defense Attorney serving Portland, OR
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Jacob D. Braunstein, Attorney at Law
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Generally, unpaid utility bills are dischargeable in bankruptcy. To answer the second question, a debtor does not need to be employed to file a bankruptcy.
Answered on Aug 24th, 2012 at 10:35 PM
Bankruptcy Attorney serving Overland Park, KS
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The Smalley Law Firm, LLC
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Yes, bankruptcy can discharge your utility bills. You do not have to be working to file a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. I suggest you consult with a bankruptcy attorney to discuss the details of your specific situation.
Answered on Aug 24th, 2012 at 10:34 PM
Daniel James Wilson
Yes. No, if filing Ch 7, yes if filing Ch 13.
Answered on Aug 24th, 2012 at 10:34 PM
Bankruptcy Attorney serving Phoenix, AZ
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Law Office of D. L. Drain, P.A.
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As to your utility bills - bankruptcy will discharge the debt owed up to the point of filing, but not after. Also, if you want the utility company to provide services you will be charged a substantial deposit. As to your employment question - no you do not have to be working to file for bankruptcy. The issue is not "can you file bankruptcy", but instead it is "should you file and when". Please understand that filing for bankruptcy is a very complicated process. It is wise to talk to an experienced bankruptcy attorney before deciding to take this important step. Most Arizona bankruptcy attorneys offer a free consultation about the basics of bankruptcy.
Answered on Aug 24th, 2012 at 10:25 AM
Appellate Attorney serving Grosse Pointe Farms, MI
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Musilli Brennan Associates, PLLC
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Yes, and no. Engage and counsel with a bankruptcy attorney so you know what you are getting into.
Answered on Aug 24th, 2012 at 10:15 AM
Keven A. McKenna
Anyone can file. Maybe old bills in a 7.
Answered on Aug 24th, 2012 at 10:15 AM