Bankruptcy Basics

Don't Fall For Debt Consolidation Companies' "Promises"

Posted by Craig Black | May 12, 2023 | 0 Comments

Don't fall for debt consolidation companies' “promises”. Debt consolidation companies may seem like a great solution for those struggling with debt, but in reality, they come with a host of disadvantages that can ultimately lead to even more financial troubles. Instead, filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy may be a more beneficial option for those seeking debt relief.

One major disadvantage of debt consolidation companies is that they often require high fees and interest rates. These companies may offer to combine all of your debts into one monthly payment, but the overall cost can end up being much higher than the individual debts combined. Additionally, many debt consolidation companies require a lengthy repayment period, which means that you will be paying off your debts for a longer period of time and accumulating more interest. If something seems ‘too-good-to-be-true', it probably is.

Another disadvantage of debt consolidation companies is that they do not offer legal protection. If you fall behind on payments or default on your debts, your creditors can still take legal action against you. Debt consolidation companies cannot provide the legal protection that comes with filing for bankruptcy, which can be a major disadvantage for those who are facing lawsuits or wage garnishments.

Furthermore, debt consolidation companies can negatively impact your credit score. When you enroll in a debt consolidation program, it typically shows up on your credit report as a negative mark. This can make it harder to obtain credit in the future, and may even prevent you from getting approved for loans or credit cards.

In contrast, filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy can provide a number of benefits for those struggling with debt. One major advantage is that it can provide legal protection from creditors. When you file for bankruptcy, an automatic stay goes into effect, which prevents creditors from taking any further legal action against you. This can give you some breathing room and allow you to work on a repayment plan without the added stress of lawsuits or wage garnishments.

Additionally, Chapter 13 bankruptcy can provide a more manageable repayment plan. Under a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you can create a repayment plan that works with your income and budget. This means that you will have a set payment amount that you can realistically afford each month, which can be a major relief for those struggling to make ends meet.

Another advantage of Chapter 13 bankruptcy is that it can protect your assets. Unlike Chapter 7 bankruptcy, which requires the liquidation of assets to pay off debts, Chapter 13 bankruptcy allows you to keep your assets while still working towards a debt-free future. This can be especially beneficial for those with valuable assets, such as a home or car, that they do not want to lose.

Furthermore, filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy can actually improve your credit score over time. While bankruptcy may initially have a negative impact on your credit score, it can also help you get back on track financially. By creating a manageable repayment plan and sticking to it, you can start rebuilding your credit and improving your credit score over time.

In conclusion, while debt consolidation companies may seem like an appealing solution for those struggling with debt, they often come with a host of disadvantages that can ultimately lead to even more financial troubles. Instead, filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy can provide legal protection, a manageable repayment plan, and the potential to improve your credit score over time. If you are struggling with debt, it may be worth considering all of your options and speaking with a bankruptcy attorney to determine the best path forward for your financial future.

Craig Black Law Firm LLC in Atlanta, has 4 convenient locations in Conyers, Marietta, Sandy Springs, and downtown Atlanta. Craig works directly with each client, making it a very personal experience. Call Craig today and let him guide you through the best options for you and your family. Let's get your life back!

About the Author

Craig Black

I had never thought much about bankruptcy law, but after graduating from law school, I moved to Chicago. My first job as an attorney was with a law firm that specialized in bankruptcy. Within a few years, I went from being the youngest attorney in the firm to a managing attorney. During my time t...

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