What are some things an individual in Alabama can do to avoid bankruptcy?

Bankruptcy is an option many consider when they have accrued a substantial amount in debt and have no way of paying it back. Although bankruptcy helps many individuals get back on their feet by helping them avoid litigation and/or start with a clean slate, it isn’t always the first option a person should choose if they have debt.

The fact is, there are a few ways individuals can get a handle on their debt without having to rely on bankruptcy. Some suggestions are shared below.

Contact creditors to set up a repayment plan.

If an individual thinks they might be able to make small monthly payments to their creditors, they can contact each one to see if they can get the amount owed lowered first. Then, they can work with the creditor to see if the company would be willing to accept an amount they can afford to pay each month to go toward their balance.

If a consumer hasn’t paid anything toward the amount they owe a creditor for six consecutive months, the creditor will likely close their account and charge off the debt.¹ When this happens, the creditor generally doesn’t continue to add interest fees onto the amount that is owed. Therefore, any payments an individual makes will help lower their balance rather than go toward interest.

Consider taking out a debt consolidation loan.

If an individual qualifies for a debt consolidation loan, it can help them lump their debts together and only make one payment. When an individual begins to pay back their creditors, they might begin to see an increase in their credit score as it shows they are working to get their delinquent accounts paid off.

Review their credit report to determine if any debts don’t belong to them.

If a consumer owes money to a creditor, that creditor is going to exhaust all options in order to get their money. While much of what is listed on a person’s credit report likely belongs to them, it is important for a consumer to review their report to see if any debt they are being asked to pay doesn’t.

If an individual is able to get debt wiped off their credit report, either because it has reached the statute of limitations or it doesn’t belong to them, then they may have less debt and can work with their creditors to satisfy their balance.

When to Contact an Alabama Bankruptcy Lawyer

Consumers who cannot afford to pay back their creditors or don’t qualify for a debt consolidation loan might want to consider speaking with an AL bankruptcy lawyer to find out if filing for bankruptcy is the right option for them. Hill, Gossett, Kemp & Hufford, P.C. is a bankruptcy law firm located in Alabama that can help an individual understand the bankruptcy filing process and determine if they would be a good candidate for filing.

Disclaimer: No representation is made that quality of legal services provided is greater than the quality of legal services provided by other attorneys.

Hill, Gossett, Kemp & Hufford, P.C. can be reached at:

Moody Office

2603 Moody Parkway, Suite 200

Moody, Alabama 35004

Phone: (205) 640-2000

Website: www.hwhlawgroup.com

Leeds Office

7900 Parkway Drive

Leeds, AL 35094

Phone: (205) 699-5500

Springville Office

6441 U.S. Highway 11