Filing for Bankruptcy in Georgia: All You Need To Know

If you’re struggling with debt in Georgia, you may be considering filing for bankruptcy. Bankruptcy can be a powerful tool for getting a fresh start and putting your financial troubles behind you. However, the process can be complex and intimidating, especially if you’re not familiar with the legal system. In this article, we’ll walk you through the basics of filing for bankruptcy in Georgia, including the different types of bankruptcy, the eligibility requirements, and the steps involved in the process.

Types of Bankruptcy in Georgia

There are two main types of bankruptcy that individuals can file for in Georgia: Chapter 7 and Chapter 13.

Chapter 7 bankruptcy, also known as “liquidation” bankruptcy, is designed to eliminate most types of unsecured debts, such as credit card debt, medical bills, and personal loans. In a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, the debtor’s non-exempt assets are liquidated to pay off as much of their debts as possible, and the remaining debts are discharged. However, not everyone is eligible for Chapter 7 bankruptcy – you must pass a means test to determine your eligibility based on your income and expenses.

Chapter 13 bankruptcy, also known as “reorganization” bankruptcy, is designed for individuals with a regular income who are struggling with debt but want to keep their assets, such as a house or car. In a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, the debtor creates a repayment plan that lasts between three and five years, during which time they make monthly payments to a trustee who distributes the funds to their creditors. At the end of the repayment period, any remaining debts are discharged.

Eligibility Requirements for Bankruptcy in Georgia

In order to filing bankruptcy in Georgia, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. For Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you must pass the means test, which compares your income to the median income in Georgia for a household of your size. If your income is below the median, you are eligible for Chapter 7. If your income is above the median, you may still be eligible if you can demonstrate that you have significant expenses that prevent you from repaying your debts.

For Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you must have a regular income and your unsecured debts must be less than $419,275, and your secured debts must be less than $1,257,850. Additionally, you must be up to date on your tax filings and have completed credit counseling within the six months before filing.

The Bankruptcy Filing Process in Georgia

Filing for bankruptcy in Georgia involves several steps, including:

• Pre-filing counseling: Before you can file for bankruptcy, you must complete a credit counseling course from an approved provider. This course will help you understand your financial situation and explore alternatives to bankruptcy.
• Filing the bankruptcy petition: To begin the bankruptcy process, you must file a petition with the bankruptcy court in your district. The petition will include information about your income, expenses, assets, and debts, as well as a list of your creditors.
• Meeting of creditors: Within a few weeks of filing your petition, you will attend a meeting of creditors, also known as a 341 meeting. This meeting is an opportunity for your creditors to ask you questions about your financial situation and your bankruptcy case.
• Bankruptcy trustee review: After the meeting of creditors, your bankruptcy trustee will review your case and determine whether you have any non-exempt assets that can be liquidated to repay your creditors.
• Repayment plan or liquidation: If you’re filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you will create a repayment plan that outlines how you will pay off your debts over a period of three to five years. If you’re filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, your non-exempt assets will be liquidated to repay your creditors.
• Discharge: Once your repayment plan is completed or your non-exempt assets have been liquidated, any remaining debts will be discharged, meaning you are no longer legally obligated to repay them.

Bankruptcy and Your Credit Score

Filing for bankruptcy can have a significant impact on your credit score, which is why it’s important to carefully consider whether it’s the right option for you. A bankruptcy will remain on your credit report for up to ten years, and can make it more difficult to get approved for credit in the future. However, if you’re struggling with overwhelming debt, bankruptcy may be the best way to get a fresh start and rebuild your credit over time.

Working with a Bankruptcy Attorney in Georgia

If you’re considering filing for bankruptcy in Georgia, it’s highly recommended that you work with an experienced bankruptcy attorney. A bankruptcy attorney can help you understand your options, navigate the legal system, and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process. They can also help you determine which type of bankruptcy is right for you and guide you through each step of the filing process.

Debt Consolidation Instead of Bankruptcy

Debt consolidation is often considered as a better option than bankruptcy. When you consolidate your debts, you combine all your outstanding balances into one single payment, which is usually lower than your current payments. This can help you manage your finances better and avoid missing any payments. Debt consolidation also allows you to negotiate with your creditors and possibly get lower interest rates, which can ultimately reduce your overall debt.

Unlike bankruptcy, which can have long-term negative effects on your credit score and make it difficult to obtain loans in the future, debt consolidation can actually improve your credit score over time. It is important to weigh all your options and consider the pros and cons of each before making a decision.

Conclusion

In conclusion, debt consolidation is a viable option for those struggling with overwhelming debt. It can provide a way to lower monthly payments, reduce interest rates, and simplify the payment process. By consolidating debt, individuals can avoid the negative consequences of bankruptcy, such as damage to credit scores and the loss of assets. However, it is important to carefully consider all options and seek professional advice before making a decision. With the right approach and a commitment to financial responsibility, debt consolidation can be a valuable tool for achieving long-term financial stability.

FAQs

What type of bankruptcy should I file for in Georgia?

There are two types of bankruptcies that individuals can file for in Georgia: Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Chapter 7 is a liquidation bankruptcy that allows you to discharge most of your unsecured debts, while Chapter 13 is a reorganization bankruptcy that allows you to repay your debts over a three to five-year period.

How do I know if I qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Georgia?

To qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Georgia, you must pass the means test. This test compares your income to the median income in Georgia for a household of your size. If your income is below the median, you automatically qualify for Chapter 7. If your income is above the median, you may still be able to qualify based on your expenses and other factors.

What debts can be discharged in bankruptcy in Georgia?

Most unsecured debts can be discharged in bankruptcy, including credit card debt, medical bills, personal loans, and payday loans. However, certain debts, such as student loans, taxes, and child support payments, cannot be discharged.

How long does the bankruptcy process take in Georgia?

The length of the bankruptcy process in Georgia depends on the type of bankruptcy you file for. Chapter 7 bankruptcy typically takes about four to six months to complete, while Chapter 13 bankruptcy takes three to five years.

Will I lose my assets if I file for bankruptcy in Georgia?

In Chapter 7 bankruptcy, some assets may be sold to pay off your creditors. However, Georgia has generous exemptions that allow you to keep certain assets, such as your home, car, and personal property. In Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you can keep all of your assets, but you must repay your debts over time.

Will bankruptcy ruin my credit score in Georgia?

Bankruptcy will have a negative impact on your credit score, but how much it affects your score depends on your individual situation. Generally, bankruptcy will stay on your credit report for seven to ten years.

Can I file for bankruptcy on my own in Georgia, or do I need an attorney?

While it is possible to file for bankruptcy on your own, it is highly recommended that you seek the assistance of an experienced bankruptcy attorney. Bankruptcy is a complex legal process, and an attorney can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the best possible outcome.

How much does it cost to file for bankruptcy in Georgia?

The filing fee for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Georgia is $335, while the filing fee for Chapter 13 bankruptcy is $310. Attorney fees vary depending on the complexity of your case and the experience of the attorney.

Can I file for bankruptcy more than once in Georgia?

Yes, you can file for bankruptcy more than once in Georgia. However, there are certain time limits and restrictions that apply to multiple filings.

Will I be able to get credit after filing for bankruptcy in Georgia?

While it may be more difficult to obtain credit after filing for bankruptcy, it is still possible. You may need to start with secured credit cards or loans with higher interest rates, but as you rebuild your credit, you will have more options available to you.

Glossary

1. Bankruptcy: A legal process in which individuals or businesses can eliminate or repay some or all of their debts under the protection of the federal bankruptcy court.
2. Chapter 7 bankruptcy: A type of bankruptcy where a debtor’s non-exempt assets are sold and the proceeds are distributed to creditors.
3. Chapter 13 bankruptcy: A type of bankruptcy where a debtor creates a repayment plan to pay off their debts over a period of three to five years.
4. Automatic stay: A court order that stops creditors from collecting debts from the debtor once bankruptcy has been filed.
5. Exempt assets: Assets that are protected from the bankruptcy process and cannot be seized by creditors.
6. Non-exempt assets: Assets that are not protected from the bankruptcy process and can be seized by creditors to repay debts.
7. Liquidation: The process of selling a debtor’s non-exempt assets in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy to pay off creditors.
8. Trustee: A court-appointed person who oversees the bankruptcy process and ensures that creditors are paid as much as possible.
9. Discharge: The release of a debtor from their obligation to pay certain debts after the bankruptcy process is complete.
10. Credit counseling: A requirement for individuals filing for bankruptcy to complete a credit counseling course before their case can be filed.
11. Means test: A calculation used to determine if an individual qualifies for Chapter 7 bankruptcy based on their income and expenses.
12. Secured debts: Debts that are tied to an asset, such as a mortgage or car loan, that can be repossessed if payments are not made.
13. Unsecured debts: Debts that are not tied to an asset, such as credit card debt or medical bills.
14. Reaffirmation agreement: A contract that allows a debtor to keep a secured asset, such as a car, by agreeing to continue making payments on the debt even after bankruptcy.
15. Bankruptcy dischargeable debts: Debts that can be eliminated through the bankruptcy process, such as credit card debt or medical bills.
16. Bankruptcy non-dischargeable debts: Debts that cannot be eliminated through bankruptcy, such as most taxes or student loans.
17. Bankruptcy exemptions: Specific assets that are protected from the bankruptcy process, such as a certain amount of equity in a home or personal property.
18. Bankruptcy petition: The formal document that initiates the bankruptcy process and lists all of the debtor’s debts and assets.
19. Bankruptcy trustee meeting: A meeting between the debtor, trustee, and creditors where the debtor is asked questions about their financial situation and bankruptcy case.
20. Bankruptcy attorney: A lawyer who specializes in bankruptcy law and can help individuals navigate the bankruptcy process.
21. Unsecured debt: Debt that is not backed by collateral or assets, such as credit card debt or medical bills.
22. Secured debt: Secured debt refers to a type of debt that is backed by collateral, such as a car or a house, that can be repossessed or foreclosed upon in the event that the borrower fails to make payments on the loan.