Filing for bankruptcy is stressful and overwhelming. There are a lot of emotions involved with finances, especially when you don’t have enough to meet your basic needs and feel like you’re drowning in debt. Bankruptcy can be a life-saving option for many, but it’s important to know all your options and thoroughly weigh the pros and cons before you file. Here are a few important things to consider when filing for bankruptcy.
Hire A Lawyer
Even if you aren’t sure yet that you will file, you should consider hiring a bankruptcy Maryland lawyer. A lawyer can make sure you know all your options, help deal with debt collectors, and help you decide when and how to declare bankruptcy, if necessary. Many people file for bankruptcy before they need to, drastically hurting their finances, while others wait too long to file and end up losing their homes and income. It’s best, if you are considering bankruptcy, to talk to a lawyer as quickly as possible to assess what needs to happen to help you get back on your feet.
Don’t Overspend Before Filing
If you’ve decided to file, make sure you don’t make any big purchases or reserve vacations on credit. When creditors see big purchases just before the bankruptcy, they can declare bankruptcy fraud and prevent you from filing. Spend money as you normally would and try not to use credit cards while waiting for your paperwork to go through.
Give Yourself Time
Bankruptcy is not a quick fix to a big problem. It takes a long time for all the paperwork to be drawn up, reviewed, and approved. Don’t wait until you are in absolute desperation to start the process. It can take anywhere from 4 months to a year for a bankruptcy to be complete. If you file just days before your house is foreclosed on, for example, you might not be able to save it in time.