What is Bankruptcy?

By Minh Tong Reviewed by Melissa Cook Updated Nov 16, 2022
What is Bankruptcy?

Bankruptcy is a legal process where an individual or business unable to pay their debts can get a fresh start. It allows them to either restructure or eliminate their debt obligations and protect their assets from creditor actions. There are several types of bankruptcy, including Chapter 7, Chapter 11, and Chapter 13.

When someone files for bankruptcy, they will go through a court process in which a trustee is appointed to review financial information and develop a plan for repaying creditors. This may involve liquidating assets and creating a repayment plan over time.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, also known as liquidation bankruptcy, involves selling off non-exempt assets to repay creditors. This type of bankruptcy is often chosen by individuals or businesses with few valuable assets and high levels of unsecured debt such as credit card debt.
It is important to note that not all debts can be discharged through bankruptcy, including student loans and some taxes. It is important to consult with a lawyer before filing for bankruptcy to understand the implications and options available.
Overall, Chapter 7 Bankruptcy can provide relief from unmanageable debt and the opportunity for a fresh financial start.

Chapter 11 Bankruptcy

Chapter 11 Bankruptcy, also known as reorganization bankruptcy, is often used by businesses to restructure their debt and continue operations. This type of bankruptcy allows the business to propose a plan to repay creditors over time while still running the business.
It can be a complex process, with oversight from a court-appointed trustee and input from creditors. The ultimate goal is for the business to emerge financially stable and successful.
Some notable companies that have utilized Chapter 11 Bankruptcy include General Motors, Lehman Brothers, and Delta Airlines.
While it can be a difficult decision for a business, filing for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy can allow them to restructure debt and potentially save their company in the long run.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy, also known as individual reorganization bankruptcy, is often chosen by individuals with regular income who wish to repay their debts over time.
In this type of bankruptcy, the individual proposes a repayment plan to creditors that may involve repaying a portion of their debt over three to five years. During this time, they are protected from creditor action and foreclosure proceedings.
This type of bankruptcy can be helpful for individuals looking for relief from high levels of secured debt such as mortgage or car loans. However, it is important to note that not all debts can be discharged through Chapter 13 Bankruptcy, including some taxes and student loans. It is important to consult with a lawyer before filing for bankruptcy to understand the implications and options available.
Overall, Chapter 13 Bankruptcy can provide individuals with the opportunity to restructure their debt and work towards financial stability in the future.

While it can be a difficult decision, filing for bankruptcy can offer relief from overwhelming debt and the opportunity for financial stability in the future. Talk to an Americor debt professional today if you want advice on if filing for bankruptcy is the right path to your financial freedom. You might have more options than you think.


minhtong

Minh Tong

Minh leverages decades of experience in marketing, sales management and technology to provide high-level advice and lead new initiatives. Minh has a Bachelor of Science in Business/Managerial Economics from University of California at Irvine. He brings over 20 years of sales and executive management experience to the company and his responsibilities include customer service improvement, professional development, and carrying out communications and marketing. Originally from the east coast, Minh resides in southern California and enjoys spending time with his family, going to the beach, and playing a variety of sports.