“If Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a consideration, you know your financial life will be turned upside down

if you decide to move forward”

CHAPTER 13 BANKRUPTCY MISTAKES

TO AVOID IN PHILADELPHIA

DAVID M. OFFEN PHILADELPHIA BANKRUPTCY ATTORNEY

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Mistakes to Avoid in Philadelphia www.getfreeofbills.com 3

If Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a consideration, you know your financial life

will be turned upside down if you decide to move forward. Of course, you

are hoping that you come out the other side in better shape.

Those who don’t know the first thing about Chapter 13 bankruptcy often

times believe the process is simple, straightforward, and quick to complete.

As they begin to learn more, they find that there are questions that need

answered, paperwork that needs filed, and challenges that need overcome.

The last thing you want to do is find yourself falling prey to the many

Chapter 13 bankruptcy mistakes that are lurking around every corner. One

mistake, even if it appears to be minor, could cause you major headaches

down the road.

If you become familiar with the most common Chapter 13 bankruptcy

mistakes, it is much easier to feel confident in every step you take.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Mistakes to Avoid in Philadelphia www.getfreeofbills.com 4

Here are several mistakes that you want to avoid:

1. Adding more debt to what you currently have. Believe it or not,

many people think this is a good idea. They know they are going to

discharge their debt through bankruptcy, so they don’t think twice about

adding more.

This is a mistake, as the court may consider it fraudulent activity. Once you

know you are going to file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy it is best to put away

your credit cards and avoid all other types of debt. This includes loans and

cash advances.

2. Making a rash decision. If you believe that one time is as good as the

next to file, you may find yourself jumping the gun.

For example, you could find yourself faced with wage garnishment or

foreclosure. In this case, filing for bankruptcy right away would be in your

best interest. But what if you have enough money to get by for the time

being? Does it make more sense to wait, hoping you can work things out?

On top of this, if you are going to add more debt to your current load you

may want to delay the process.

3. Neglecting to file the appropriate paperwork. Don’t let anybody

tell you that it is simple to file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy. There is a lot of

paperwork involved, and you must supply the court with all the information

it requires. If you don’t, your case could be thrown out and you will find

yourself back at square one.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Mistakes to Avoid in Philadelphia www.getfreeofbills.com 5

If you are concerned about overlooking a particular document or worried

that you will make a mistake, consult with a Chapter 13 bankruptcy

attorney. This person can review your situation, explain what you should

be doing, and make sure that every piece of paperwork is taken care of at

the right time and in the appropriate manner.

These are just three of the many Chapter 13 bankruptcy mistakes you

must be aware of. By avoiding these, as well as others, you will feel better

about your ability to achieve the desired results.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Mistakes to Avoid in Philadelphia www.getfreeofbills.com 6

Bankruptcy laws are anything but simple. It is likely that you don’t have

much experience with this area of the law, so it makes sense to consult

with an experienced and knowledgeable attorney. This will help you avoid

mistakes, while having

your questions

answered in a timely

manner.

As intimidating as it

may be, don’t shy away

from learning more

about Chapter 13

bankruptcy because you

are afraid of making

mistakes. Many before

you have bettered their financial situation by filing for bankruptcy. Once

you know what is expected, you could be next to take advantage and

improve your finances.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Mistakes to Avoid in Philadelphia www.getfreeofbills.com 7

About the Author

David M. Offen

A native to the Philadelphia area, Mr. Offen attended Temple University College and Law

School. Mr. Offen is licensed to practice in the States of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. He is a

member of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania Bankruptcy Conference and the National

Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys.

David M. Offen has over 20 years of experience and has helped over 8,500 individuals and

families go through the Bankruptcy process. These filings have included stopping foreclosure on

a home, stopping repossession of a car or vehicle, stopping IRS tax levies and frozen bank

accounts and putting a stop to; lawsuits, credit card bills, personal loan, bills, utility shutoffs

and other types of debt.

With Mr. Offen’s help, these families have saved countless millions of dollars of debt.

David enjoys getting to know his clients and will be happy to answer any and all questions you

may have. You are treated as a person and not a number.

Remember – there is no such thing as a silly question. Don’t be afraid to ask any questions you

may have. David M. Offen has found that people looking to file Bankruptcy are not trying to

avoid their responsibilities but rather to make a difficult situation easier. David enjoys getting

people to stop worrying and making their financial lives much better and stop feeling

overwhelmed.

In some cases, Bankruptcy is not the best move and he can review your situation with you and

tell you the right move for you to make. Get a completely free evaluation of your situation. For

the past 20 years, the Law Offices of David M. Offen has been among the top filers of

bankruptcy in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.

The Law Offices of David M. Offen

215-625-9600

www.getfreeofbills.com

The Curtis Center

601 Walnut Street, Suite 160 West – 1st Floor

Philadelphia, PA 19106