People always ask what not to do before filing Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Below are a few “Don’ts” before filing bankruptcy. By no means is this an inclusive list, but this should get you started.
1. Don’t leave out Bank, Checking, Savings, Brokerage, Credit Union accounts.
2. Don’t file if your income is greater than your expenses.
3. Don’t use your credit cards.
4. Don’t take Credit Card Cash Advances.
5. Don’t use convenience checks.
6. Don’t do balance transfers.
7. Don’t pay money to Family.
8. Don’t pay money to Friends.
9. Don’t tell a creditor that you intend to pay.
10. Don’t leave assets off of your paperwork.
11. Don’t file if you are about to receive a tax return or inheritance. Discuss the timing with your attorney.
12. Don’t fail to tell your attorney about your small business, sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, LLP, LC, corporation, or hobby.
13. Don’t purchase a home shortly before filing bankruptcy without consulting your attorney.
14. Don’t give or gift property to anyone.
15. Don’t pay more than $600 on any past due bill.
16. Don’t transfer property to anyone.
17. Don’t cash out retirement plans or 401k’s.
18. Don’t take out a second mortgage.
19. Don’t gamble.
20. Don’t hide assets or debts.
21. Don’t take out “payday loans”.
22. Don’t put your money in your kids’ bank accounts.
With our offices centrally located in Livonia, we represent clients throughout Metro Detroit and beyond, including Westland, Garden City, Wayne, Redford, Belleville, Farmington Hills, Plymouth, Canton , Taylor, Romoulus, Northville, Commerce Township, Wixom, Dearborn, West Bloomfield and Detroit .
