Can I really pay off my debts?

Posted by Della Stein | Jun 27, 2024 | 0 Comments

Debt can accumulate quickly, and before you know it, you are beyond any ability to manage it. Debt impacts your credit history as much as it does your quality of life. Creditors and third-party collection agencies can cause serious stress. Fortunately, even when you think a solution does not exist to your debt problem, there very well may be one. You can pay off your debts. Chapter 7 bankruptcy in California is the quickest, easiest, and most affordable way to discharge debts and get a clean slate.

What is Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a type of bankruptcy that can benefit individuals, partnerships, or corporations. If you or your business have qualifying assets, they are liquidated to pay off debt. The court appoints a Trustee to review your assets and determine if any are worth liquidating. Each state allows for a certain amount of assets to be exempted, which means those assets are shielded from liquidation. You should consult with a bankruptcy attorney in California to make sure you know what applies in your case.

Even though Chapter 7 bankruptcies are a means to liquidate assets and pay off debts, these types of bankruptcies are often referred to as “no assets.” Most people who apply for bankruptcy under Chapter 7 do not have assets that would qualify for liquidation. Nonetheless, debts are still discharged, so you get a fresh start. 

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is very common––much more common than people know. That said, there are a few caveats to keep in mind. First, not all debts are eligible for bankruptcy. Second, not all individuals, partnerships, or corporations will qualify. These caveats are reasons why you should consult with a bankruptcy lawyer to make sure Chapter 7 is right for you.

Eligibility for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

Qualifying for Chapter 7 bankruptcy typically means being able to pass what is known as the Means Test. The Means Test determines whether you can pay off your debts. To pass the Means Test, your income must not exceed the income limits set by your state. 

State income limits vary because the cost of living differs from state to state. A state's income limit depends on the number of earners and people in the household. In California, the income limits are set much higher than other states. The income numbers for the Means Test are updated every six months.

Contact a Bankruptcy Lawyer in Silicon Valley Today

At Della Stein Law, our Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyer in Silicon Valley will review your overall finances, debt, and life circumstances to help you determine if filing for bankruptcy is right for you. Then, we will guide you through the process so you never have to worry about deadlines or paperwork. Contact our bankruptcy attorney today at 408-357-3251 to schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation. 

About the Author

Della Stein

I am Della Stein, and I have been practicing law since 2011. Currently, I practice intellectual property law and business law. I am passionate about helping people and find there are many opportunities to help those seeking a better life in our great nation. I strive first to be a good listener ...

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