Many different types of debts can be discharged in a Kentucky bankruptcy. Almost every type of unsecured debt such as personal loans, medical bills and credit card balances can be addressed in both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 proceedings. Secured debts such as mortgages and auto loans are also likely to be discharged in a Chapter 13 case. A few types of debts, such as back taxes, fines and child support, cannot be discharged.
Rights debtors have when talking to debt collectors
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act provides debtors throughout Kentucky and the rest of the country with protections against certain debt collector activities. For instance, a debt collector does not have the right to harass a debtor or act in a deceiving manner. When a person receives a call from a debt collector, it is important to verify that the amount in question is actually owed.
Talking about the gender debt gap
Women in Kentucky and throughout the country tend to have more debt than men. This is partially because of the gender wage gap that sees a female worker earning as little as 72 cents for every dollar made by a male. For instance, a woman paying student loans has an average debt of $30,716 compared to a man's average of $24,232.
Why waiting to file for bankruptcy can be a mistake
Debtors in Kentucky and throughout the country may be doing themselves a disservice by waiting to file for bankruptcy. By waiting, they could deplete assets or otherwise negate some or all of the financial benefit gained by filing. In many cases, individuals who choose to file only do so when they are at the point when they face debt collection calls or creditor lawsuits. The time that people spend putting off asking for protection from creditors is called the sweatbox.
Chapter 13 bankruptcy and buying a vehicle
Some people in Kentucky who are in the midst of a Chapter 13 bankruptcy might wonder whether they can obtain an auto loan. It is possible to do this, but it may take time because it is necessary to first get court approval.