Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Law Firm Tampa, FL

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Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Law Firm Tampa, FL

How to Get Prepared to File Bankruptcy

Bankruptcy laws were established to provide people with a fresh financial start and a more favorable outlook when they need it the most. And when individuals have simpler and more straightforward cases, they can likely be settled quickly and in a short time frame. That can be a huge advantage if you are facing a wage garnishment or mortgage foreclosure situation. However, some bankruptcy cases are complex and require more work and more expense. 

A chapter 13 bankruptcy law firm in Tampa, FL can advise you what will be involved in your bankruptcy case. An experienced and knowledgeable attorney can help you navigate the bankruptcy legalities from the start of the process to the final discharge of debts. Since attorney fees are often based on the facts and needs of each case, you would be well-advised to be organized and prepared. To learn more now, call a Tampa, Florida chapter 13 bankruptcy law firm. 

List sources of income:

You will need to document all your sources of income for several months before the bankruptcy case is filed. If you are employed, you will need to supply pay stubs. If your employer doesn’t provide pay stubs, you will need to provide some other form of documentation to confirm your income. If you are a 1099 contract worker, bank statements or copies of checks will likely suffice. 

If you are self-employed, you will need to provide a profit and loss statements and copies of all bank statements, business, and personal. You may need to provide additional documentation, depending on the nature of your business. Additionally, you will need to show state and federal tax returns for the last two years.  

Creditors:

A credit report will suffice if all your creditors are listed. A credit report should include all the necessary information if all your debts are comprised of personal loans and credit cards. However, some creditors, such as medical providers, do not report to the usual credit agencies. If these debts exist, you will need to provide invoices or collection letters. If you cannot get these copies, a chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer Tampa, FL trusts can help you. 

Payments to creditors:

You will need to review the payments you made to creditors for the last 90 days. Plus, if you repaid any family or friends over a specific dollar amount in recent years, your chapter 13 bankruptcy law firm in Tampa, FL will want to know and will advise how to proceed.

Court Documents:

If you were involved in any court proceedings, whether plaintiff or defendant, you must tell your chapter 13 bankruptcy law firm in Tampa, FL. You will need copies of these court documents.

Assets:

You will need to show a comprehensive list of all your assets, including: 

• Real estate
• Automobiles
• Appliances
• Furniture
• Electronics
• Jewelry
• Collectibles
• Stocks
• Bonds
• Sporting gear
• Recreational vehicles
• Vacant land
• Intangible property
• Retirement plans
• Business interests

When listing tangible assets, you should include an estimated value, the date of purchase, the condition, and make and model, if applicable.

Expenses:

Monthly and non-monthly expenses should be logged carefully and completely. You will need to disclose all your expenses with precision and accuracy.

Bankruptcy may seem overwhelming, but if you’re well-organized and have the right chapter 13 bankruptcy law firm in Tampa, FL, you’ll probably make out well. For more information, contact The Law Office of Michael A. Ziegler, P.L.