If you’re contemplating bankruptcy you’re aware court fees and lawyer’s fees are most likely in your future.
This concern keeps a lot of people from filing bankruptcy when they should. If you’re afraid bankruptcy will cost more than you can pay, read on.
Recognize this form of bankruptcy is already designed for people with low incomes.
The good news about Chapter 7 is it’s already designed to accommodate people who don’t have much money. It’s set up to be pretty simple as long as you meet the criteria.
That’s why our firm keeps our fees on the lower end of the spectrum. We can earn a fair living helping you with your bankruptcy, and we don’t have to charge you an arm and a leg to do it.
Stop paying anything other than necessary expenses.
Don’t pay the creditors who are hounding you day and night unless you’re trying to avoid a lawsuit or a repossession. Worry about food, rent or your mortgage, utilities, and transportation. Daycare, if you can’t work without it.
You’re about to wipe out all other debts anyway.
Do pay attention to debts you can’t discharge in bankruptcy. You have to pay your child support. You probably won’t be able to discharge your student loans in bankruptcy. You may be able to get your child support modified though. And if you have federal student loans, a deferment or forbearance can take a little pressure off of your finances.
Set aside whatever you can towards at least getting the bankruptcy ball rolling.
Apply for other forms of financial assistance.
Depending on how bad your financial situation is you may be able to receive some other forms of financial assistance. Again, this can help you take a little pressure off so you ball rolling. Different programs will have different requirements.
This website lists a whole host of programs meant to help Philadelphia residents. Many of these programs can help you deal with food insecurity while you struggle to get back on your feet. Some of them won’t want you to have any money left over before they help you. Others are a bit more flexible.
Ask about court fee waivers.
If you’ve got a low enough income we might be able to help you apply for court fee waivers. Ask us about it!
Why do you need a lawyer for this? The petition has to be filed as part of your official bankruptcy paperwork, and if you get anything wrong you could end up being denied. It’s best to get it done right the first time.
Work with an attorney who will work with you.
We can’t help you file bankruptcy for free, but we do give you a free consultation. During that consultation, we discuss the costs of bankruptcy and help you work out a payment plan.
Paying for bankruptcy is the last thing you should worry about while you’re in a position to need it. That’s why we do our best to make it a non-issue. How can we help you? Call us to find out.