Accidents, unforeseen job layoffs and natural catastrophes can destroy a person's home, automobile and their job. As more people find themselves becoming unable to pay their debts, they are forced to undergo bankruptcy.

Unfortunately there are many myths involving the whole bankruptcy process but in this article many of the more common questions will be answered. Hopefully you will find the information and help you are searching for and so desperately need.

What types of bankruptcy are there?

There are four types of bankruptcy within the United States judicial system. Chapters 7, 11, 12 and 13, with each chapter covered under different guidelines and laws. The general breakdown of each chapter is all dependent upon the particular situation of the debtor.

Businesses typically file Chapter 11 whereas farm owners will file for Chapter 12. Under Chapters 11, 12 and 13 the debtor agrees to a plan where he or she will repay a portion of the debts back to the creditor. Chapter 7 is a complete liquidation and any assets obtained through secured debts are repossessed and sold. The remainder of the debt is discharged.

Is my home going to be foreclosed and sold?

When a person takes out a mortgage on a home it is considered a secured debt. That means if you cannot make the payments the bank can seize the property and then sell it. If you own your home without any mortgage, it is considered an asset and can also be seized by the courts as a way to repay part of your debts to your collectors.

Homes are most often the first thing sold as they are generally worth more and can repay more of the debt that is owed. There are ways to protect your home from being foreclosed but you have to seek the advice of an experienced bankruptcy attorney for help.

How long will my bankruptcy be on my credit report?

Bankruptcy can remain on your credit report for up to ten years from the date of filing. Once the bankruptcy has been discharged all of the reported debts will show as zero. It will have an impact on your credit score but not nearly as bad as it was before.

This is a golden opportunity to learn from your mistakes and learn how to manage your debts better. You will eventually be out from under the looming bankruptcy but staying out of trouble is an entirely different story. Many people do not learn from their bankruptcy mistakes and find themselves in the same situation repeatedly.

How do I deal with credit collectors?

Well... unfortunately ignoring credit collectors is not an option. Credit collectors can employ sneaky, underhanded methods of trying to collect their debts. They get paid when you pay your debt. If you have begun the process of filing for bankruptcy and have met with your attorney, any calls or letters you receive from a collection agency need to be directed to your attorney.

Once the bankruptcy process has been filed, debt collectors are not allowed to continue their threatening tactics. If they continue to do so you will need to file suit against them. New debt collection laws are in your favor if you are filing for bankruptcy. The laws do not apply if you are only considering the process.

Can a bankruptcy affect my job or future employment?

An employer cannot deny you a job based on the fact that you filed for bankruptcy. Many employers are now using credit scores and reports to make a decision on whether or not to hire a certain employee. Is this fair?

No, it is not but employers do have a say when setting forth their hiring criteria. If you feel that you have been denied a job based on your credit score or history of bankruptcy, you can file a complaint with the Labor board of your state.