Prebankruptcy Planning

Planning For Bankruptcy

Planning ahead before you file for bankruptcy can help you protect more assets and discharge more debt.

Bankruptcy and Divorce: Which Comes First?

Filing for bankruptcy after divorce has advantages, but filing before is simpler. Learn about the benefits of filing for bankruptcy along with a divorce, as well as potential pitfalls to watch for.

Bankruptcy for Small Business Owners: An Overview

An introduction to the various options small business owners have to file for bankruptcy protection, and the pros and cons of each.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy for a Small Business

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is often a good way for a struggling small business to wind down operations and satisfy creditors. Small business owners can also file a personal Chapter 7 bankruptcy after the company closes to get out from under business debt.

How Your Business Structure Matters in Bankruptcy

As a business owner considering bankruptcy, the structure of your business - sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation - affects the options you have.

Chapter 11 Bankruptcy: An Overview

Both individuals and businesses can file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Learn more.

Should I refinance before or after bankruptcy?

Learn whether it is better to refinance your mortgage before or after bankruptcy.

Should I Cash Out My Savings Account Before Filing for Bankruptcy?

Find out if it's okay to take money out of your bank accounts before you file for bankruptcy. You might be able to protect it using a bankruptcy exemption or spend the funds on necessities of life. Cashing out the savings account funds to hide them from creditors is bankruptcy fraud.

Hiding Property & Assets in Bankruptcy

Giving away, hiding, or destroying property before filing for bankruptcy can land you in trouble.

Should I cash out my retirement account before filing for bankruptcy?

Withdrawing money from your retirements accounts before bankruptcy is almost never a good idea. Here's why.

Can I Use My Credit Cards Prior to Filing for Bankruptcy?

If you use your credit cards before bankruptcy, the credit card company might challenge your ability to wipe out the debt.

Should I Buy a Car Before or After Filing for Bankruptcy?

Want to buy a new car, truck, SUV, or other motor vehicle? Find out if you should do it before or after bankruptcy.

Should You File Income Taxes Before or After Bankruptcy?

If you're owed a tax return, you'll want to know whether it is in your best interest to file your taxes before or after bankruptcy.

Should I Stop Paying Creditors If I'm Going to File for Bankruptcy?

If you are planning on filing for bankruptcy, it might make sense to stop paying certain creditors.

Can I Buy Household Appliances Before Filing for Bankruptcy?

In general, you should avoid making large purchases prior to filing for bankruptcy.