If you're having a tough time paying bills, bankruptcy could provide the relief you need. But as helpful as Chapter 13 can be, it comes with a repayment plan, and that plan brings an important question. How will you make those monthly payments, along with your regular bills, if you're struggling financially?

The Craig Black Law Firm understands that filing for bankruptcy brings plenty of questions. For that reason, I make sure to personally answer incoming calls. When you contact our office, you speak directly to me rather than a paralegal or answering service. Contact me today at 678-888-1778 or complete my confidential contact form, and I'll be in touch.

How Plan Cost Is Determined

Whether you're living in bustling downtown Atlanta or the tree-lined suburbs of Sandy Springs, your Chapter 13 filing process will be the same. Courts will look at your income, your essential monthly expenses, and what's left over. Only the funds you have remaining after paying all your basic bills will be put toward the repayment plan.

That means your car payment, rent or mortgage, and utilities will be accounted for before your monthly payments are finalized. The goal is to create a payment plan that gets you back on your feet.

What Is (and Isn't) Included in Your Plan

Your payment plan will cover a lot of your current bills. The following will be part of your monthly payment after you file:

• Credit cards
• Medical bills
• Personal loans
• Past-due child support
• Some recent past-due taxes

Some debts will remain separate. You'll pay those in addition to making monthly payments on your repayment plan.

• Rent or mortgage payments
• Car payment (unless the full loan is included in the plan)
• Utilities
• Insurance
• Cell phone and internet bills
• Child support

Your repayment plan isn't the only reason to file, though. We've worked with debtors in Fulton County, Cobb County, and surrounding areas who've breathed a sigh of relief once the automatic stay is in place. At that point, creditors stop calling, wage garnishments cease, and they're finally able to get their head above water.

We Help You Get a Realistic Plan

You'll submit the repayment plan to the court, so you can set manageable monthly payments. However, the court has the ultimate authority and can reject your plan if it's too conservative.

That's where an experienced attorney comes in. At the Craig Black Law Firm, I'll sit down with you to review your budget and craft a plan that reflects what you can afford to pay each month. I have experience in working with courts in Northwest Georgia and can help you create a workable plan that's likely to get approved.

Navigating Chapter 13 Together

The Craig Black Law Firm regularly helps clients in Marietta, Conyers, and throughout the Atlanta area. We know you have concerns, and we work hard to help you navigate the process. If you're considering Chapter 13, give us a call at 678-888-1778, or fill out this contact form, and I'll be in touch.