Bankruptcy Fresh Start: Frequently Asked Questions

A bankruptcy fresh start means a federal court wipes out the debts the law allows it to, stops your creditors from chasing you, and lets you rebuild from a clean slate. It doesn’t erase everything, and it isn’t free of consequences. But it’s the only debt option that comes with a court order protecting you.

I’m Robert Weed, and these are the questions I hear in nearly every first meeting. People are afraid bankruptcy is a punishment. They’ve been dodging calls for months, and some haven’t opened their mail in weeks.

Frequently asked questions

Will bankruptcy ruin my credit for ten years?

No. A bankruptcy stays on your report for years, but it has almost no effect after three years.  Most people get out of bankruptcy with a credit score between 600 and 630.

Do collection calls stop as soon as I file?

Yes. The automatic stay takes effect when your case is filed, and creditors who know about it have to stop contacting you. If one doesn’t, I get after them.

Can I keep my retirement account if I file?

Yes. Qualified retirement accounts, like your 401k and 403b are protected under Federal law.. Virginia law also give great prfotection to your IRA and SEPIRA.  That’s exactly why cashing one out to pay unsecured debt is usually a mistake.

Is debt settlement a safer alternative to bankruptcy?

No. Debt settlement offers no legal protection from lawsuits or garnishment, and fees and interest can keep growing while you’re enrolled. Bankruptcy is the only option here that comes with a court order protecting you.

How soon will I feel better after filing?

Many people feel relief within days, when the calls stop and the uncertainty ends. My promise is, Be Happy and Debt Free.

Take Controll of your Life Again

If the debt has been running your life, waiting doesn’t help. The purpose of bankruptcy is to help you.