What Are the Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing for Bankruptcy in California?

Filing for bankruptcy is a significant financial decision, and making mistakes in the process can have serious consequences. So, what are the common mistakes to avoid when filing for bankruptcy in California?

The most common mistakes include transferring assets before filing, taking on new debt, cashing out retirement funds, failing to disclose financial details, and waiting too long to file. Avoiding these missteps can protect your case and maximize your financial relief.

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FAQs About Bankruptcy Mistakes in California

What can you not do after filing bankruptcies?
In Chapter 7 and Chapter 13, obligations pertaining to current taxes, spousal maintenance, child support payments, and judicial directives cannot be eliminated. You might lose the privilege to retain specific properties, credit cards, or bank accounts, and acquiring loans will necessitate authorization from the court after declaring bankruptcy.
Does my debt go away when I declare bankruptcy?
When you file for bankruptcy, it can serve to clear away most unsecured debts. Not every type of debt might be forgiven through this process, such as secured debts like your mortgage.
Who loses money first in a bankruptcy case?
During bankruptcy proceedings, the initial financial losses are absorbed by secured creditors, which usually include banks and lenders. Unsecured creditors are next in line to face losses, and these may be banks as well as suppliers. Stockholders stand at the end of the queue when it comes to asset claims.

Consequently, if there’s insufficient repayment to cover other creditors’ claims fully, stockholders might end up without any compensation from the remaining assets.
What is the 90-day rule for bankruptcy?
Under the 90-day rule in bankruptcy, if you disburse over $600 to a creditor in the period of 90 days preceding your filing, the trustee overseeing Chapter 7 has the authority to demand that said creditor refund those monies.
What happens if I don't disclose all my assets when filing for bankruptcy?
When you are filing for bankruptcy, it is imperative to reveal all of your assets. Concealing any could lead to a refusal of debt relief, the possibility of having an approved discharge later revoked, or facing criminal prosecution.

To prevent these adverse outcomes, exercise completeness and honesty in your disclosure.

What Happens If You Cosign a Loan and the Other Person Doesn’t Pay?

Cosigning a loan can be a helpful way to assist a friend or family member in securing financing. But what happens if you cosign a loan and the other person doesn’t pay?

Failing to pay a cosigned loan on time harms both parties. The lender reports late payments to credit bureaus, lowering both credit scores. The cosigner must cover missed payments and may face collection actions or legal consequences. This can damage relationships and impact future loan approvals.

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How To Stop Wage Garnishment in California

If wage garnishment makes it difficult to afford your essential living costs, you can request a Claim of Exemption from the court to either lower or eliminate the garnishment. This process demonstrates that the withheld amount jeopardizes your ability to meet essential needs.

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FAQs About Stopping Wage Garnishment in CA

Can You Stop Garnishment Once It Starts?
Yes, by filing a Claim of Exemption, negotiating with creditors, or filing for bankruptcy.
What Funds Are Exempt From Wage Garnishment?
Social Security, disability benefits, and public assistance are fully exempt.
How Much of My Wages Can Be Garnished?
For most debts, up to 25% of disposable income can be garnished. For child or spousal support, garnishment can reach 50%-60%.
What Happens if I File for Bankruptcy?
Bankruptcy imposes an automatic stay, immediately stopping wage garnishment.
How Long Does It Take to Stop Garnishment?
•Filing a Claim of Exemption: 10-30 days.

•Bankruptcy: Immediate upon filing.
What Are the Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Claim of Exemption?
Avoiding common errors when filing a Claim of Exemption ensures your request is not delayed or denied:


Incomplete Forms: Ensure all sections of WG-006 and WG-007/EJ-165 are filled out correctly.

Missing Supporting Documents: Include pay stubs, bills, and a detailed financial statement to substantiate your claim.

Late Filing: Submit your forms promptly to the levying officer, usually within 10 days of receiving the garnishment notice.

Failing to Prepare for Opposition: Be ready for a court hearing if the creditor disputes your claim.


Attention to detail and prompt action can significantly improve the likelihood of approval.
Can a Wage Garnishment Be Reinstated After Being Stopped?
Yes, wage garnishment can be reinstated if:





The Debt Remains Unpaid: If the original debt isn’t resolved after a temporary stoppage.



A New Judgment Is Secured: Creditors may file for a new judgment after correcting procedural errors or reapplying.



Bankruptcy Protection Ends: Once a Chapter 13 repayment plan is complete, creditors may resume garnishment for debts not fully discharged.

To prevent reinstatement, resolve the debt entirely or maintain compliance with bankruptcy repayment terms.

Can Bankruptcy Help Eliminate Medical Bills in California?

Yes, both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy in California can potentially eliminate medical bills, providing relief from overwhelming medical debt.

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FAQs About Medical Debt Relief

Does filing medical bankruptcies hurt your credit?
Medical bankruptcies, which group your medical bills with all other debts, can have a detrimental effect on your credit. This decision results in a mark that remains on your credit reports for an extended period of time.

Before proceeding with such a course of action, it’s crucial to thoroughly explore every alternative available to you.
How do I resolve medical bills in collections?
Contact the collection agency to work out payment arrangements, understand the statute of limitations, check your credit reports, and dispute inaccurate information to resolve medical bills in collections.

You have rights in this process.
How long until a medical bill goes to collections?
State regulations mandate that hospitals must hold off for 180 days before they can report debts or initiate collection proceedings. This time period is provided before a medical bill may be forwarded to collections.

To prevent the medical bill from being transferred to a debt collector, it’s crucial to arrange a payment plan during this six-month window.
Do medical collections affect my credit score?
Paid medical collections will not show up on credit reports, yet unpaid ones could potentially reduce your credit score.
Should I worry about medical bills in collections?
Yes, concern about medical bills in collections is warranted. Unpaid medical debt can significantly impact your financial stability, credit score, and ability to secure future loans.

It’s important to understand the system and seek financial help to avoid potential financial ruin.

Bankruptcy Exemptions in the State of California

California’s unique approach to bankruptcy allows residents to choose state-specific exemptions instead of federal ones. The California bankruptcy exemption system offers two sets of exemptions that play a crucial role in protecting your assets during the bankruptcy process.

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