Many people, when going through Bankruptcy, have common questions about the different terms encountered while going through the Bankruptcy process. Understanding the difference between Unsecured and Secured Debt can be confusing, and it is important to be well informed when considering whether or not to file for Bankruptcy.
Secured Debt is debt that has a security interest or collateral tied to the agreement, whereby creditors can repossess or foreclose on the collateral if the debtor fails to pay back the loan. Common examples of Secured Debt are home mortgages or car loans; in the event the debtor cannot pay the amount owed, the loan is secured by the ability of the creditor to repossess the home or the car.
On the other hand, unsecured debt is debt that has no collateral attached to the agreement. Instead, unsecured creditors generally rely on your credit score and issue credit based on good faith that you will repay the amount loaned. Common examples of unsecured debt are credit card bills, medical bills, and utilities bills.
Upon filing for Bankruptcy, most Unsecured Debt is discharged with the exception of Student Loans, Child Support and Alimony Payments, Court Fines, DUI judgments against the debtor, and debts incurred by Fraud. The discharge of unsecured debt is a primary benefit of filing for Bankruptcy, and comes along with an Automatic Stay against creditors pursuing their collection efforts.
Understand that filing for Bankruptcy is a complex process with important benefits, consequences, and alternatives to consider. In the event you are considering Bankruptcy, call Blick Law Firm today for help at (813) 931-0840. Schedule a free 15 minute consultation with attorney Michael Blickensderfer. Think quick, call Blick!