When Filing Bankruptcy, When Does Garnishment Stop?

Introduction

When facing financial difficulties, filing for bankruptcy can be a valuable option for individuals to get a fresh start. However, many people are unsure of how bankruptcy affects their current financial situation, particularly when it comes to garnishment. Garnishment occurs when a creditor takes a portion of an individual’s wages or bank account to repay a debt. In this article, we will discuss when filing bankruptcy, when does garnishment stop, and how it can affect an individual’s financial situation.

Automatic Stay

One of the primary benefits of filing for bankruptcy is the automatic stay. This is a legal order that stops most creditors from taking any further collection actions against an individual who has filed for bankruptcy. This means that creditors cannot continue to garnish wages or bank accounts after an individual has filed for bankruptcy.

The automatic stay goes into effect immediately after an individual files for bankruptcy, whether it is a Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy. This means that garnishment will stop as soon as the automatic stay is in place. In addition to stopping garnishment, the automatic stay also stops other collection actions, such as foreclosure, repossession, and lawsuits.

However, it is important to note that the automatic stay does not stop all collection actions. Some debts, such as child support, spousal support, and some tax debts, are not affected by the automatic stay. Creditors can still pursue collection actions for these debts, which may include garnishment.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a form of bankruptcy that allows individuals to discharge most unsecured debts, such as credit card debt and medical bills. When an individual files for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, an automatic stay goes into effect, which stops most collection actions, including garnishment.

In addition to stopping garnishment, Chapter 7 bankruptcy may allow individuals to discharge the debt that led to the garnishment, meaning the individual will no longer owe the debt. This can provide a significant financial relief for individuals struggling with debt.

However, it is important to note that not all debts can be discharged in Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Some debts, such as student loans and most tax debts, cannot be discharged. Additionally, individuals must meet certain income requirements to qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a popular option for individuals who have significant unsecured debt and little to no disposable income. It allows individuals to discharge most of their unsecured debt, giving them a fresh start financially.

When an individual files for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, an automatic stay goes into effect, which stops most collection actions, including garnishment. Once the automatic stay is in place, creditors must stop all collection activity, including wage garnishment.

In some cases, the bankruptcy court may order the return of wages that were garnished prior to the bankruptcy filing. However, this is not always the case, and individuals should consult with an experienced bankruptcy attorney to determine their options.

The timeframe for stopping garnishment in Chapter 7 bankruptcy varies depending on the individual case. Typically, garnishment stops as soon as the automatic stay is in place. However, it may take some time for the creditor to receive notice of the bankruptcy filing and stop the garnishment.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a form of bankruptcy that allows individuals to reorganize their debts and create a repayment plan. It is often used by individuals who have income but are struggling to keep up with their debts.

When an individual files for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, an automatic stay goes into effect, which stops most collection actions, including garnishment. The repayment plan created in Chapter 13 bankruptcy includes payments to creditors, which can include the debt that led to garnishment.

The timeframe for stopping garnishment in Chapter 13 bankruptcy is similar to Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Garnishment stops as soon as the automatic stay is in place, but it may take some time for the creditor to receive notice of the bankruptcy filing and stop the garnishment.

One of the benefits of Chapter 13 bankruptcy is that it allows individuals to catch up on past due payments, such as mortgage or car payments. This can help individuals keep their assets while still addressing their debt.

It is important to note that the repayment plan created in Chapter 13 bankruptcy must be completed in order for the individual to receive a discharge of their remaining debts. This can take several years, and individuals must make payments according to the plan to successfully complete their bankruptcy case.

Exceptions to Automatic Stay

While the automatic stay stops most collection actions, there are some exceptions that may allow garnishment to continue. One common exception is for debts that are not dischargeable in bankruptcy, such as most tax debts and student loans. Creditors may be able to continue garnishing wages or bank accounts to repay these debts, even if an individual has filed for bankruptcy.

Another exception is for debts that are secured by property, such as a car loan or mortgage. While the automatic stay may stop foreclosure or repossession, creditors can still pursue collection actions to recover the property.

It is important to note that while some debts may be exempt from the automatic stay, individuals may still be able to negotiate with creditors to stop garnishment or create a repayment plan that works for both parties.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when filing for bankruptcy, garnishment will stop as soon as the automatic stay goes into effect. This can provide significant relief for individuals struggling with debt and facing garnishment. However, it is important to understand that there are exceptions to the automatic stay, and some debts may not be dischargeable in bankruptcy.

If you are considering bankruptcy and are facing garnishment, it is important to seek legal advice to understand your options and how bankruptcy may affect your specific situation. Filing for bankruptcy can be a complex process, and having an experienced bankruptcy attorney can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you achieve the best possible outcome.

At Wiki Mic, we are committed to providing accurate and helpful information about accounting, insurance, banking, finance, and real estate. If you have any questions about filing for bankruptcy or how it may affect garnishment, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for guidance and support.