How Much Debt Must You Be in to File Bankruptcy?

There are requirements for debt when it comes to Chapter 13, but they mostly concern upper limits. To be eligible to file a Missouri or Illinois Chapter 13, your unsecured debts must be less than $336,900 and your secured debts must be less than $1,010,650.

So, if there is no stead fast rule on when to file, how do you know when to call a bankruptcy attorney? Ask yourself: "Am I facing a hardship right now?" If your financial situation is crushing you and your family, it is a good idea to look at options for relief. Does that mean that you have to file bankruptcy anytime you feel uncomfortable? No. However, there is nothing wrong with getting more information to find out if bankruptcy is the right move for you.

Even the question above isn't easy to answer. While there isn't an amount or period of time that tells you to file bankruptcy, there are some warning signs that you are getting in over your head with debt. Some of the warning signs include a wage garnishment, threat of repossession, need for protection from foreclosure, or harassing creditor calls. If your debt has gone this far, chances are that you need a solution—and quickly.

Even if you aren't at the end of your financial rope, you may benefit from being proactive. Is this situation going to get better on its own? Is your debt a temporary problem? If you responded "no," you may not be far from a foreclosure or repossession. You don't have to sit around waiting for something bad to happen to you before you contact an attorney. In fact, the best way to stop these things from ever occurring is to educate yourself with free material from great attorneys in the area.

Don't forget, your situation won't change if you don't do anything about it. If you aren't sure whether you want to file bankruptcy, you aren't alone. Luckily, there is free information from great attorneys that can bring you some clarity. You should feel comfortable and knowledgeable before you even step foot into an office. The path to financial freedom is within your reach

About the Author:

Jim Brown is a bankruptcy attorney based in St. Louis, Missouri. He has spent 15 years fighting an industry that consistently takes advantage of hard-working Americans.He started his firm, Castle Law Office, with his wife and best friend, Sherrie. In his spare time, he enjoys coaching youth hockey, golfing, and spending time with his three wonderful children.For more information, visit www.castlelaw.net