How Do I Prevent Filing for Bankruptcy?

Debt can be overwhelming and stressful to the point of considering filing for bankruptcy as a way out. However, the consequences of filing for bankruptcy can be significant and far-reaching. Understanding ways in which you can prevent filing for bankruptcy and take control of your finances is essential. By taking proactive steps, you can avoid the negative impact of bankruptcy and achieve financial stability. This article discusses several strategies you can use to prevent filing for bankruptcy.

What is Filing for Bankruptcy?

Filing for bankruptcy means an individual or business cannot pay their debts, prompting the court to help them restructure or clear their debts for a fresh start.

Consequences of Filing for Bankruptcy

Filing for bankruptcy can provide relief from overwhelming debt but also have significant consequences, including the following;

• Filing for bankruptcy can damage your credit score, making it difficult to obtain credit in the future since the bankruptcy can remain on your credit report for up to 10 years.
• Given the type of bankruptcy you file for, you may be required to sell some of your assets, including your home, car, or other valuable possessions, to pay off your debt.
• Some employers may view bankruptcy as a sign of financial irresponsibility, which could negatively impact your employment prospects, leading to stress and lower self-esteem.
• Bankruptcy can come with social stigma, causing embarrassment, stress, and anxiety over your financial situation, impacting your mental health.

How Can You Prevent Filing for Bankruptcy?

If you feel overwhelmed by debt, it is crucial to take action to prevent filing for bankruptcy. Here are eight ways to avoid bankruptcy.

• Budget

Begin with creating a budget that includes all your income and expenses. Be sure to include your debts too. Once you have a clear picture of income and expenses, identify areas where you can cut back. Then stick to the budget.

• Cut Back on Spending

Once you have a budget, take action to reduce your spending. This may mean downsizing your lifestyle by canceling subscriptions or memberships, moving to a smaller house, eating out less often, or finding ways to reduce your utility bills. Eliminate non-essential spending beyond the basics: food, necessary clothing, rent, and transport money. Cutting back on your spending can help you free up money to pay off your debts, which can help you avoid bankruptcy.

• Increase Your Income

Look for ways to increase your income by taking part-time jobs or starting a side hustle. Sell anything you do not need around the house, then use that money to pay off your debts. Remember, paying off the debts is a priority.

• Negotiate With Creditors

Another strategy to prevent filing for bankruptcy is to contact your creditors and see if you can negotiate a payment plan or settlement. Many creditors might be open to finding a mutually beneficial solution with you.

• Consider Consolidating Your Debts

Debt consolidation may be worth considering if you have multiple debts with high-interest rates. Debt consolidation entails taking out a new loan to pay off multiple debts such that you are now left with one loan to pay off. Debt consolidation can streamline your payments such that you have a single account to repay, and at the same time, it can reduce your interest rates.

• Avoid More Debt

Refrain from incurring more debt while you are paying off existing debts. You can avoid more debt by using cash instead of credit cards and avoiding unnecessary purchases until your finances improve.

• Build an Emergency Fund

An emergency fund refers to a dedicated fund that you can utilize to cover unplanned financial expenses like car repairs or medical bills. By having an emergency fund, you can avoid using credit cards or taking out loans to cover these expenses. Even a tiny amount of savings each month can add up over time.

• Seek a Credit Counselor

Consider seeking the help of a credit counselor or financial advisor who can guide you on creating a budget, managing your debts, and creating a plan to pay them off.

Contact the Experienced Bankruptcy Attorney in Tucson, Arizona

If you are overwhelmed by debt and need help consolidating your debts or seeking debt relief, contact the experienced Tucson bankruptcy attorney, Eric Ollason can guide you on your options for a fresh start by calling (520) 389-5241 to book a free consultation today.