When you’re in a financial bind, bankruptcy is not the only way out. There are many alternatives to bankruptcy if you are willing to put out the time and energy. It could save you much unnecessary hassle.
Bankruptcy is a difficult decision to make so it is best if there is another solution out there for you.
Begin by calling your creditors. Most are willing to work with you if you explain to them your situation. Tell them you are considering bankruptcy.
In many cases, creditors are willing to work out a different payment plan with you. Don’t hide from them either. Be straightforward and open about your financial situation.
Before filing bankruptcy, take a good long hard look at your finances. Get organized and begin writing out a budget. Start with your monthly income and deduct your monthly household expenses.
Understand how you are spending your money and seek out where you can make cutbacks. Perhaps buying groceries in bulk, or cutting back on phone services or cable services. Every little thing helps.
Next you will want to take a look at your credit cards. You may be able to take the balance from one with a higher interest to a lower interest one. Then get rid of those high interest credit cards all together.
Stay away from paying off credit cards with credit cards. Other things you can try are refinancing a car loan or a mortgage. Or perhaps you have some family members or friends who are willing to pitch in to help pay off high rate debts and avoid bankruptcy.
But remember, this is a loan so when you are in a better situation, do make sure to pay back those who were kind enough to help you out.
July 12th, 2008 at 3:54 am
Bankruptcy is a hard thing to get through…. I am trying to avoid it by watching my finances, paying my debts and being frugal….. Bankruptcy may be inevitable eventually though
January 4th, 2009 at 3:52 am
Agree that bankrupcy is not the only way out. Much prefer the idea of negotiating. Lots of ads on TV now about a service to negotiate with the IRA in the US to get folks’ owed taxes reduced. A great idea and service. I wonder though…could the individual do it himself and save the fee?
February 4th, 2009 at 1:01 pm
I agree with negotiating credit cards, but have you heard of others, ie. auto loans being negotiated? I haven’t heard anything about that, but I don’t see why they wouldn’t if credit card companies are. I know that auto lenders can repossess, but in some cases the car is not traceable.
October 29th, 2010 at 2:06 am
Jon Stewart – you ran with such audacity, yet legislatively, it has felt timid at times… I was hoping for much more tyranny
October 29th, 2010 at 3:42 am
The Daily Show bleeps about every 3rd word by Jon Stewart but had to bleep none by Pres. Obama. He talked over the heads of the audience.