What Can You Not Do After Filing Bankruptcy?- Farmer & Morris Law (2024)

What Can You Not Do After Filing Bankruptcy?- Farmer & Morris Law (1)

There are certain things you cannot do after filing for bankruptcy. For example, you can’t discharge debts related to recent taxes, alimony, child support, and court orders. You may also not be allowed to keep certain assets, credit cards, or bank accounts, nor can you borrow money without court approval. Further, you may not be able to discharge debts with certain creditors, meaning you have to continue paying even after filing for bankruptcy.

Hundreds of thousands of people struggle with debt each year due to unfortunate circ*mstances such as unexpected healthcare costs, economic downturn, or loss of income. While filing for bankruptcy can provide an escape from crushing debt, there are consequences to consider alongside the benefits. In this guide, we answer your questions about what happens after you file for bankruptcy. We explore the advantages and setbacks and discuss how our lawyers help you navigate the legal process.

Do I Need a Lawyer to File for Bankruptcy in North Carolina?

Filing for bankruptcy is not straightforward and can involve both state and federal courts. Unfortunately, applying for the process does not mean it will automatically be granted, and mistakes made during filing can be costly. Working with a bankruptcy lawyer can be beneficial, especially If your case is complex.

We are always here to answer questions and guide you through the legal process.

In practical terms, our lawyers can help you determine the appropriate bankruptcy Chapter for your situation and manage the administration process required by the court. We can also help you protect your assets, manage communications with your creditors, and prevent further debt collection actions when possible.

What Can You Not Do After Filing Bankruptcy?- Farmer & Morris Law (2) What Can You Not Do After Filing Bankruptcy?- Farmer & Morris Law (3)

What Can You Not Do After Filing Bankruptcy?- Farmer & Morris Law (4)

We are passionate about obtaining the best result.

Start Your Free Consultation »

What Can I Not Do After Filing for Bankruptcy?

After filing for bankruptcy, you may be concerned about what will happen to your possessions or business. What are you not allowed to do or keep once you file? This depends on which type of bankruptcy option you chose, which typically falls under the following Chapters:

Chapter 7

Most suited to individuals, married couples, partnerships, and companies that cannot pay back their debts.

With this option, debts are repaid by liquidating non-exempt assets, meaning no debt repayment plans are involved. During the process, the courts appoint a trustee to oversee your case. The trustee will determine which assets can be sold to pay creditors, including by asking questions under oath about your assets. Any remaining obligations are then discharged, as long as they are eligible.

You can typically keep your home after Chapter 7 bankruptcy, provided your equity falls below specific limits, or you keep up with rent payments for your lease agreement.

That being said, here’s what you’re not allowed to do with a Chapter 7:

  • Lie under oath about your financial or property assets
  • Keep property that must be used to discharge your debts
  • Miss payments to certain creditors in order to keep your home

Our lawyers work hard to help you protect as many assets as possible, including motor vehicles, some equity in your home, household goods, furnishings, and appliances, pensions, work tools and equipment, and welfare benefits.

Chapter 11

Corporations and other business entities often use this complex form of bankruptcy to restructure assets and debts and improve financial affairs. This allows them to repay debts while continuing to operate. However, creditors can also file an involuntary bankruptcy for businesses or individuals with high debt levels.

Cases filed under Chapter 11 enable businesses in financial distress to develop a plan of reorganization which, when approved by creditors, becomes a contract between all of the involved parties. As a result, doors stay open for business, creditors must cease collection efforts, and owners retain control of commercial operations and assets.

The downside of this arrangement is businesses may need court approval before selling assets, borrowing money, or making certain decisions related to expansion and growth. However, our lawyers can help companies to navigate the process and forge a better path forward.

Here’s what you’re not allowed to do with a Chapter 11 bankruptcy:

  • Take on additional debt without the permission of the court
  • Sell assets without court approval
  • Expand the business without court approval
  • Break the contract under which you are allowed to retain control of the business

Chapter 13

Also called the Wage Earner’s bankruptcy, filing under Chapter 13 enables individuals with a regular income who have fallen into serious debt to regain control of their finances by completing a debt repayment program over three to five years.

While there are many benefits to filing a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, such as protection from continuing creditor collection efforts, stopping foreclosures, and keeping your personal assets, there are some caveats that can be considered downsides. For example, you cannot:

  • Incur further debt
  • Use credit or credit cards
  • Enter into leases without court approval

Our lawyers work hard to protect your rights and ensure you get the relief you need from debt collection while working towards a more favorable financial position.

Personal Injury Lawyer Near Me 828.286.3866

We Provide Consultations to Help You Weigh All Your Options

Even though it is a difficult decision, filing for bankruptcy can be an opportunity to start anew, provide relief from debt collectors, and take back control of your future. The bankruptcy attorneys at Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC are here to help you do just that.

To learn more about your legal options, contact us for a confidential case review with our team today.

What Can You Not Do After Filing Bankruptcy?- Farmer & Morris Law (5) What Can You Not Do After Filing Bankruptcy?- Farmer & Morris Law (6)

Contact our team today so we can fight to help you get the compensation you deserve.

What Can You Not Do After Filing Bankruptcy?- Farmer & Morris Law (7)

Contact Our Firm Today »

Bankruptcy FAQ:

How Much Do You Have to Be In Debt to File Chapter 7?

You do not have to be in a specific amount of debt to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Your income might play a role in your ability to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy protection, and you might be required to

What Happens If I Declare Bankruptcy?

When you declarebankruptcy, you willfile a petitionin federal court. Once your petition for bankruptcy is filed, your creditors will be informed and must stop pursuing any debt you owe. The

What Is the Difference Between Chapter 13 and Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?

One key difference between Chapter 13 and Chapter 7 bankruptcy is that Chapter 7 allows people to completely eliminate their unsecured debt after a specific period. In contrast, Chapter 13 allows

What Is the Downside of Filing For Bankruptcy?

Filing for bankruptcy protection is considered a statement on your ability to repay your debt to your creditors. The fact that you sought and received bankruptcy protection will remain on your credit

What Will I Lose If I File Bankruptcy?

Most people who file bankruptcy are able to keep all of their assets. Filing for bankruptcy may seem like an overwhelming experience. However, a lawyer from our firm can help you through the process.

What Is the Process of Filing Bankruptcy?

The process of filing bankruptcy begins with deciding which type of bankruptcy is right for you. You will then need to compile important financial documents, submit a petition to your local bankruptcy

What Can You Not Do After Filing Bankruptcy?- Farmer & Morris Law (2024)

FAQs

What Can You Not Do After Filing Bankruptcy?- Farmer & Morris Law? ›

For example, you can't discharge debts related to recent taxes, alimony, child support, and court orders. You may also not be allowed to keep certain assets, credit cards, or bank accounts, nor can you borrow money without court approval.

What can you not do after bankruptcy? ›

For example, you can't discharge debts related to recent taxes, alimony, child support, and court orders. You may also not be allowed to keep certain assets, credit cards, or bank accounts, nor can you borrow money without court approval.

What are the restrictions after bankruptcy? ›

These rules are called 'restrictions'. The rules cover things like your job, your money and how you work with the person who deals with your bankruptcy. They're called the 'official receiver'. There are also rules about how you managed your debts before you went bankrupt.

What goes away with bankruptcies? ›

Loans, medical debt and credit card debt are generally all able to be discharged through bankruptcy. Tax debt, alimony, spousal or child support and student loans are all typically ineligible for discharge.

Can I own anything after bankruptcy? ›

Yes. Many people believe they cannot own anything for a period of time after filing for bankruptcy. This is not true. You can keep your exempt property and anything you obtain after the bankruptcy is filed.

Will filing for bankruptcy ruin me? ›

Your Credit Score Will Likely Suffer

Bankruptcy is recorded on your credit reports and remains there for seven years from the filing date for Chapter 13, or 10 years from the filing date for Chapter 7. A bankruptcy on your credit reports has a deep, long-lasting negative impact on your credit scores.

What debt cannot be erased? ›

Filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy eliminates credit card debt, medical bills and unsecured loans; however, there are some debts that cannot be discharged. Those debts include child support, spousal support obligations, student loans, judgments for damages resulting from drunk driving accidents, and most unpaid taxes.

Do you still have to pay debt after bankruptcies? ›

After a bankruptcy, the debtor is no longer legally required to pay any debts that are eliminated, or discharged, in bankruptcy court. Collectors cannot collect on the debts that have been discharged.

What are the downsides of claiming bankruptcies? ›

Cons. It can ruin your credit. Although bankruptcy can make sense for your overall financial well-being, it can take several years to rebuild your credit history. As a result, you may need to put certain financial moves on hold until you can qualify for better terms.

What can happen after a bankruptcy? ›

When the bankruptcy court issues a discharge, you are relieved of your liability to pay back the listed debts. That means creditors no longer have a legal claim against the debts, so they cannot pursue any collection activity, take any legal action, or even communicate with you.

What items do you lose in a bankruptcy? ›

What creditors can take in a bankruptcy
  • Vehicles.
  • Land.
  • Houses.
  • Investment properties.
  • Savings accounts.
  • Any other items of value, like artwork or jewelry.
Nov 20, 2023

What can I spend money on during bankruptcy? ›

While you are allowed to spend money on essential items such as housing, utilities, food, and transportation, extravagant expenses might be scrutinized by the bankruptcy court. Be mindful of your spending habits and prioritize essential needs to avoid potential complications.

Can you keep your job after bankruptcy? ›

Although your employer might learn about your bankruptcy case, rest assured that your bankruptcy won't affect your current employment in most situations. However, it might prevent you from getting a job in private industry later.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Lilliana Bartoletti

Last Updated:

Views: 6355

Rating: 4.2 / 5 (53 voted)

Reviews: 84% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Lilliana Bartoletti

Birthday: 1999-11-18

Address: 58866 Tricia Spurs, North Melvinberg, HI 91346-3774

Phone: +50616620367928

Job: Real-Estate Liaison

Hobby: Graffiti, Astronomy, Handball, Magic, Origami, Fashion, Foreign language learning

Introduction: My name is Lilliana Bartoletti, I am a adventurous, pleasant, shiny, beautiful, handsome, zealous, tasty person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.