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.

In The News:


pen paper and inkwell


cat break through


Debt Settlement : What You Need To Know

Debt Settlement companies work with your creditors to help you... Read More

How To Get Out Of Debt

If you have found yourself in a position where you... Read More

Senate Passes New Bankruptcy Law

The United States Senate passed a law on March 10,... Read More

Is There A Way Out Of Your Debt Problems?

Do you have multiple debts? Do you have just one... Read More

Five Major Ways to Save Money

There are two main roads to improving your personal finances:... Read More

Budgeting and Debt Management

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

The First Step To Getting Out Of Debt: Make The Commitment!

These days, getting into debt is easy.Unfortunately, getting out of... Read More

Is Independence Overrated?

Happy Independence Day from The Money Motivator!If you don't celebrate... Read More

How To Pay Credit Card Debt Off

If you are determined to pay credit card debt off... Read More

Bankruptcy - Your Fresh Start

Most American consumers are living too close to the edge.... Read More

Future Secured? Oh Really?

A headline for a retirement annuities flyer declares "Future Secured!"... Read More

New Bankruptcy Law ? Five Essential Things to Know

Last April, Congress passed the Bankruptcy Abuse and Consumer Protection... Read More

Debt Help and Advice for the UK

At some time or another during our lives most of... Read More

Are You SURE Your A Bad Debt?

Many people who seek the advice and guidance of debt... Read More

How Do I Lower My Debt Burdens?

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

How to Get Triple A Credit in 25 Days

Good credit is everyone's dream. A wise use of credit... Read More

4 Simple Ways to Solve Your Debt Burden

Getting Behind Getting behind on your debts owed can be... Read More

Craving For Financial Freedom

Have you ever felt trapped in a Rat Race and... Read More

Dealing with Thingitis

Debt is quickly becoming an epidemic in America. However, through... Read More

Life After Debt ? Strategies for Dealing with Problem Debt

Honorably and ethically rid yourself of burdensome debts using the... Read More

What is Debt Settlement?

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

Bankruptcy As An Option

If your financial worries are preventing you from sleeping at... Read More

What is Debt Settlement and How Does it Work?

Debt settlement involves negotiating with a creditor or creditors to... Read More

Debt Elimination 3

Planning To Achieve Debt EliminationOnce you have started the process... Read More

How to Reduce Your Debt in 5 Easy Steps

If you have incurred substantial personal debt, consider these options:... Read More

What You Should Know About Bankruptcy

Filing bankruptcy is not only a last resort legal action;... Read More

Credit Repair? Its All Up to You

Log onto to a search engine such as google.com and... Read More

Selecting A Credit Counselor; Asking The Right Questions.

When you find yourself thinking about using a credit counseling... Read More

Personal Bankruptcy: Last Option To Legally Stop Bill Collectors

Do you have stacks of unpaid bills?Are you in debt?Are... Read More

Dont Let The Good Times Bury You

It is vital to get rid of debt while things... Read More

Pay Off Your Student Loans and Reduce Your Debts

Financing a college education is one of the more expensive... Read More

5 Methods Toward Reducing Your Debt

Decreasing your debt is paramount to having a good credit... Read More

The ONE Law You Should Be Breaking

There is a law all smart people break.Parkinson's law.Parkinson's law... Read More