CHAPTER 13 BANKRUPTCY CAR REPOSSESSION

Credit Solutions • January 13, 2015

Car Repossession and Filing for Bankruptcy: Get the Facts

Chapter 13 & Car Repossession

How does Chapter 13 bankruptcy give you the best opportunity to get your car back?


According to the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals decision, if a vehicle is repossessed prior to the filing of Chapter 13 Bankruptcy, the creditor must return the vehicle to the debtor once the case has been filed and a request for the vehicle's return has been made. This is advantageous for debtors as it allows them to regain possession of their car, which is crucial for maintaining employment and making timely Chapter 13 payments. By having their vehicle returned, debtors can ensure they can commute to and from work, thereby securing their job stability.


However, the benefits of Chapter 13 bankruptcy extend beyond vehicle repossession. Not only does it facilitate the return of the car, but it also provides an opportunity to address any outstanding debts associated with the vehicle loan. Through a court-approved repayment plan, debtors can bring their car loan payments current, ultimately regaining control over their financial situation.


Moreover, if the repossession has already taken place, filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy prompts the loan company to return the vehicle to the debtor. This approach offers a practical solution for debtors, granting them a clear path to regain possession of their vehicle while simultaneously addressing their financial obligations.


Once the vehicle is returned, debtors are granted a timeframe of three to five years to repay their car loan through the Chapter 13 repayment plan. This extended period allows debtors to manage their finances effectively and make consistent payments towards their vehicle loan, ensuring the opportunity to fully satisfy the debt within a reasonable timeframe.


Chapter 13 bankruptcy not only ensures the return of the repossed vehicle but also provides a comprehensive solutions for debtors to address outstanding debts.  By offering a court-approved prepayment plan and an extended repayment period, this approach empowers debtors to regain control over their financial situation and retain their means of transportation, thereby securing their employment and enabling the to fulfill their Chapter 14 obligations.


Is Chapter 7 bankruptcy a good choice for reclaiming our car?



When considering whether Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a suitable option for reclaiming your car from the lender, it is important to note that this particular bankruptcy chapter does not typically enable you to bring your missed payments up to date. As a result, Chapter 7 bankruptcy may not be the most ideal choice if your primary goal is to reclaim your vehicle. However, it's worth mentioning that there are alternative avenues that may allow you to negotiate with the lender for the return of your car. Furthermore, the bankruptcy court might potentially intervene and facilitate the return of the vehicle. Nevertheless, it's essential to be aware that whichever route you pursue, it is likely that you will need to promptly cover all repossession expenses and bring your payments up to date, a task that may be challenging for many individuals.  These additional expenses are not needed in a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, making Chapter 13 the right tool to get your car back!

 

What to Do Next

If you’re considering filing for bankruptcy and recently had your car repossessed, don’t waste any more time or money; get immediate help from the bankruptcy lawyers at Credit Solutions.

We’ll help you get your car back as fast as possible and give you sound financial advice, so you can get on the road to debt relief. Our bankruptcy lawyers will advise you on whether you should file for bankruptcy or if there are other options available.

Get a FREE consultation now! Just provide some quick contact information, and we’ll get back to you to set-up a time that works best for you.

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