QUESTION

Is bankruptcy the right answer for me? How much does it cost?

Asked on Sep 20th, 2016 on Bankruptcy - New York
More details to this question:
I recently separated from my partner and I am now a single Mom, with shared custody of our 3 children. Unfortunately, this change in my life required me to accrue more debt than I already had. In addition, I have spent the last 4+ years working part time in order to stay home with the kids. I was able to make monthly payments on time, but my overall debt was never reduced. Now that I am supporting myself and my children, I feel like I am in over my head with debt. I have close to $21k in personal loans and $12k in credit card debt. I also have over $55k in student loan debt, but I understand that may not be considered. I am currently renting and I am not behind on my rent. I own a car that is 14 years old and probably only worth $2k. That is my only asset. Will I lose my car? My credit score is only around 600 to begin with, so I do not think a lower score matters right now. I need help figuring out if bankruptcy is the right answer for me.
Report Abuse

1 ANSWER

Estate Planning Attorney serving New York, NY
1 Award
The car is clearly exempt from sale by a trustee and safe.  $33,000 is not the most debt of anyone, but if it is more than you can ever pay, then bankruptcy will clearly get rid of it.  My rule of thumb is if your debt is more than your annual gross income, you will not pay it back and bankruptcy is a good idea.  But, you sound younger, so if your income prospects in the future are larger, then you may want to wait.
Answered on Sep 22nd, 2016 at 3:08 PM

Report Abuse

Ask a Lawyer

Consumers can use this platform to pose legal questions to real lawyers and receive free insights.

Participating legal professionals get the opportunity to speak directly with people who may need their services, as well as enhance their standing in the Lawyers.com community.

0 out of 150 characters