The individuals that file for bankruptcy in the U.S. often choose this option to relieve several kinds of accumulated debts. Most consumers hold the five common types of debt handled in a bankruptcy case, including credit card debt, mortgage debt, car loans, tax debt, and medical bills. Those struggling with the financial obligation of repaying these debts may be overwhelmed with the cost of those payments in addition to the demands of necessary living expenses. The restructuring of your debts when you file for reorganization bankruptcy might be your answer if you’re having difficulties meeting loan payments. Behm Law Group, Ltd. offers legal advice and assistance throughout your case when you file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy in St. Peter, MN.
While medical bills are often one of the main reasons those with accumulated debts file for bankruptcy, they’re also one of the most effectively-treated types of debt in bankruptcy, even in a Chapter 13 case.
Medical Expenses and Debt
Because medical bills are often unexpected and expensive financial obligations, they can be the tipping point for those on the brink of filing for bankruptcy. In fact, many attribute medical bills as a primary factor for bankruptcy filings in the U.S. The good news is that even if you don’t qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, your medical bills can still be effectively alleviated with Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
Chapter 13 and Medical Bills
When you file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, your debts are divided into two basic categories. Debts involving assets that serve as collateral are considered secured debts, and you either have to repay these debts in your repayment plan or surrender the assets that serve as collateral or security for those debts (for example, your mortgage and your car loans). Debts that do not have any assets that serve as security or collateral are considered unsecured debts.
Unless you pledged property as collateral regarding the payment of a medical expense, your medical bills are considered unsecured debts, and they’ll be handled just like your credit card debt, unsecured personal loans, and all other unsecured debts. After your chapter 13 bankruptcy plan is concluded, the remaining balances of your medical debts will be fully discharged. How your medical bills are handled in your Chapter 13 case varies depending on your situation, but because bankruptcy is designed to restore your financial wellbeing, the result will help you back onto your feet.
If you feel overwhelmed in debts and financial obligation, yet maintain a steady income, filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy in St. Peter, MN might be the right choice for you. Contact Behm Law Group, Ltd. at (507) 387-7200 today for more information about how bankruptcy can help you.
