With the new laws that went into effect in October 2005, many consumers are finding it more difficult to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Under the old laws, consumers could file Chapter 7 and wipe out most of their unsecured debt completely.
Under the new laws, they must first attend counseling, which helps determine if they can file Chapter 7 or Chapter 13. Most higher-income consumers will be forced to file Chapter 13, which is a debt repayment plan that doesnt wipe out the debt until the repayment plan is finished. |