Bankruptcy is a process that allows people to resolve debt obligations. People often file for bankruptcy when their debt obligations become too much to handle. This could happen after building up lots of credit card debt, medical debt or late fees.
Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy are two of the most popular forms of debt resolution. Chapter 7 bankruptcy discharges or dismisses debts. Chapter 13 bankruptcy reorganized debts into a payment plan.
Have you already filed for bankruptcy in the past and want to file again? Here’s what you should know:
You may have to wait a little: Timing is everything
People can file for bankruptcy more than once in a lifetime. In fact, there is no limit to the amount of times people can file for bankruptcy, but there is a waiting period between each filing. Here are the waiting periods between each bankruptcy filing:
- You must wait 8 years to file Chapter 7 after Chapter 7
- You must wait 6 years to file Chapter 13 after Chapter 7
- You must wait 4 years to file Chapter 7 after Chapter 13
- You must wait 2 years to file Chapter 13 after Chapter 13
There are many good reasons to switch from one type of bankruptcy to another if a filer wishes to file again. For example, some debts may not be resolved after a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, but they may be manageable if there’s a Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Or, someone filing for Chapter 13 may have a change in circumstances that makes Chapter 7 the better option.
How often someone files for bankruptcy often depends on the debts they take on. People who want to file for bankruptcy again may need to learn about their legal options.
