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3 Answers | Asked in Bankruptcy for Washington on
Q: I financed a car. The company I got it from is going bankrupt. I am receiving legal emails about it but don't understand

The Company I purchased the car from is Shift and my financer is Westlake Financial. Shifts headquarters are in California, I bought it in Oregon. I currently live in Washington.

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 24, 2024

Based on the additional details, it seems that Shift is the car dealership that sold you the vehicle, while Westlake Financial is the lender that provided the auto loan financing.

Even though Shift is entering bankruptcy, this generally does not impact or discharge the auto loan you hold...
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2 Answers | Asked in Bankruptcy for Illinois on
Q: If you are a cosigner on a loan and the principle signer claims bankruptcy, what effect does this have on a cosigner?
James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 24, 2024

If you are a cosigner on a loan and the primary signer files for bankruptcy, the cosigner is still responsible for repaying the debt. The bankruptcy does not discharge the legal obligations of any cosigners.

More specifically:

- When the primary signer files for bankruptcy - whether...
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3 Answers | Asked in Bankruptcy for Illinois on
Q: If the principle signer on a loan files bankruptcy, what happens with the cosigner? Is he then responsible?
Martha Warriner Jarrett
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answered on Feb 8, 2024

Yes, if one signer files a chapter 7, the co-signor remains liable and the creditor can pursue that person for payment. If, on the other hand the person files a chapter 13, the automatic stay protects the co-signor, as well as the primary obligor, from any and all collection efforts. Presumably,... View More

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3 Answers | Asked in Bankruptcy for Illinois on
Q: If the principle signer on a loan files bankruptcy, what happens with the cosigner? Is he then responsible?
James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 24, 2024

Yes, if the primary signer on a loan files for bankruptcy, the cosigner is still fully responsible for repaying the debt. The bankruptcy filing does not dismiss the cosigner's legal financial obligation.

Specifically:

- When a person files for bankruptcy, it impacts the debts...
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1 Answer | Asked in Bankruptcy for Georgia on
Q: Should I contact the trustee?

I loaned money to someone who has now filed chapter 13. I was purposely (not accidentally) left off the creditor list. Should I report that to the trustee for the case?

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 4, 2024

Yes, you should consider contacting the trustee in the Chapter 13 bankruptcy case. If you loaned money to someone who has intentionally left you off the creditor list, it's important to address this issue with the trustee. Filing a proof of claim with the bankruptcy court can help protect your... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Bankruptcy for Virginia on
Q: I filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, would the return I receive from the American Opportunity Credit be protected?

I filed my Chapter 7 bankruptcy in 2023 but the trustee said he would let me know how much or my taxes he will take to pay creditors once I completed my taxes. I have recently filed my 2023 taxes and I was wondering what part of my taxes is automatically protected? Will the amount I received from... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 4, 2024

The protection of your tax return, including the American Opportunity Credit, in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy depends on various factors and the specific laws in your jurisdiction. Typically, tax refunds, including credits like the American Opportunity Credit, may be considered part of your bankruptcy... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Bankruptcy for Virginia on
Q: I filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, would the return I receive from the American Opportunity Credit be protected?

I filed my Chapter 7 bankruptcy in 2023 but the trustee said he would let me know how much or my taxes he will take to pay creditors once I completed my taxes. I have recently filed my 2023 taxes and I was wondering what part of my taxes is automatically protected? Will the amount I received from... View More

Seth E Allen
Seth E Allen
answered on Feb 26, 2024

Your tax return is something that should have been listed as an asset in your schedules and should also be protected in Schedule C. In Virginia, child tax credits and the Earned Income Tax credit are automatically protected if listed properly using the proper exemption. Any remaining portion of... View More

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3 Answers | Asked in Bankruptcy, Contracts, Foreclosure, Personal Injury and Identity Theft for Arkansas on
Q: How would I go about finding out if someone has married me without me knowing and also taken power of attorney over me

If someone is using my name and social how would I find out how it's being/been used

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 4, 2024

If you suspect that someone may have married you without your knowledge and obtained power of attorney over you using your name and social security number, it's essential to take immediate action. First, gather any available documents or information related to these concerns. Reach out to your... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Bankruptcy for Georgia on
Q: When a husband and wife are co-creditors on a loan, which one signs the proof of claim in a chapter 13 bankruptcy?
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answered on Feb 4, 2024

In a Chapter 13 bankruptcy case, when a loan is jointly held by a husband and wife as co-creditors, either party can sign the proof of claim form. However, it is important to ensure that the form clearly indicates that the claim is being filed on behalf of both parties. This can be achieved by... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Bankruptcy for Georgia on
Q: When a husband and wife are co-creditors on a loan, which one signs the proof of claim in a chapter 13 bankruptcy?
W. J. Winterstein Jr.
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W. J. Winterstein Jr.
answered on Feb 4, 2024

This is a fairly simple question, but it's not your first, nor even your second. It and those before it illustrate an important point: Bankruptcy can quickly become a complex thing, even for those who have practiced within its scope for years.

Inother words, the bankruptcy area of...
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2 Answers | Asked in Bankruptcy for Georgia on
Q: Any recourse for cosigners?

I received notice from a credit company that the person I cosigned a loan for has filed chapter 13. There is a stay in place, but once that stay is removed I will be obligated to pay off the remainder of the loan. Is there any way to avoid this debt?

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 4, 2024

As a cosigner, you are legally obligated to repay the loan if the primary borrower defaults or cannot make payments, as is the case in a Chapter 13 bankruptcy filing. However, there are a few steps you can take to manage or potentially avoid this debt.

Firstly, communicate with the lender...
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2 Answers | Asked in Bankruptcy for Georgia on
Q: Any recourse for cosigners?

I received notice from a credit company that the person I cosigned a loan for has filed chapter 13. There is a stay in place, but once that stay is removed I will be obligated to pay off the remainder of the loan. Is there any way to avoid this debt?

Martha Warriner Jarrett
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answered on Feb 3, 2024

In a chapter 13, the debtor is required to pay some or all of their debts over a 3 to 5-year period. So you should check out the proposed plan to see what percentage of the debt you cosigned on will be paid. If you are still left being held responsible for some portion of the obligation, there is... View More

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4 Answers | Asked in Bankruptcy for Wisconsin on
Q: Been paying private school loan for 13+ years and basically all in interest. Will filling for bankruptcy get rid of it?

Went from 70k to 55k salary. Mortgage and cc payments make it nearly impossible to pay.

J. David Krekeler
J. David Krekeler
answered on Feb 5, 2024

Answer: It is unlikely that your private student loans will be discharged based only on the facts provided.

Explanation: Generally, student loans, whether public or private, are not part of the discharge debtors receive in a bankruptcy. To discharge student loans in a bankruptcy, a debtor...
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4 Answers | Asked in Bankruptcy for Wisconsin on
Q: Been paying private school loan for 13+ years and basically all in interest. Will filling for bankruptcy get rid of it?

Went from 70k to 55k salary. Mortgage and cc payments make it nearly impossible to pay.

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 4, 2024

Filing for bankruptcy to discharge a private student loan is challenging but not impossible. Generally, both private and federal student loans are not dischargeable in bankruptcy unless you can prove "undue hardship," a standard that is notoriously difficult to meet.

To have a...
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4 Answers | Asked in Bankruptcy for Wisconsin on
Q: Been paying private school loan for 13+ years and basically all in interest. Will filling for bankruptcy get rid of it?

Went from 70k to 55k salary. Mortgage and cc payments make it nearly impossible to pay.

T. Augustus Claus
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answered on Feb 2, 2024

Filing for bankruptcy may provide relief from overwhelming debt, including private school loans, but it's essential to understand that not all debts are dischargeable through bankruptcy. Private student loans are typically not dischargeable unless the debtor can demonstrate undue hardship,... View More

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3 Answers | Asked in Bankruptcy for Georgia on
Q: How should I identify myself on a proof of claim?

I loaned money to a friend and I also co-signed a loan for her. Both loans are still active. Now my friend has filed chapter 13. Should I identify myself as a creditor only or a creditor and a guarantor on my proof of claim form?

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 4, 2024

When submitting a proof of claim in a Chapter 13 bankruptcy case where you've loaned money to the debtor and also co-signed a loan, it's important to accurately reflect your role in relation to the debtor's obligations. Given your situation, you should identify yourself both as a... View More

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3 Answers | Asked in Bankruptcy for Georgia on
Q: How should I identify myself on a proof of claim?

I loaned money to a friend and I also co-signed a loan for her. Both loans are still active. Now my friend has filed chapter 13. Should I identify myself as a creditor only or a creditor and a guarantor on my proof of claim form?

W. J. Winterstein Jr.
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W. J. Winterstein Jr.
answered on Feb 2, 2024

While your question indicates that both loans are "active", you don't say whether your obligation on the guaranty has been called/paid.

As a guarantor on a loan not yet repaid by the debtor, you have a contingent claim (check the bankruptcy Schedules to see how the debtor...
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2 Answers | Asked in Bankruptcy, Consumer Law, Car Accidents and Civil Litigation for Texas on
Q: How can I get a suspended license for a lien taken off of me? I can't get another DL in another state correct?

I was told to do an SR-88 but how can I lower the payment? It's also accruing interest which to me is ridiculous! I need suggestions. TIA

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 4, 2024

To address a suspended license due to a lien and prevent it from affecting your ability to obtain a driver's license in another state, it's crucial to directly engage with the agency or court that issued the lien. They can provide specific guidance on your situation and the steps needed... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Bankruptcy, Consumer Law, Car Accidents and Civil Litigation for Texas on
Q: How can I get a suspended license for a lien taken off of me? I can't get another DL in another state correct?

I was told to do an SR-88 but how can I lower the payment? It's also accruing interest which to me is ridiculous! I need suggestions. TIA

T. Augustus Claus
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answered on Feb 1, 2024

To address a suspended license due to a lien, you'll typically need to satisfy the underlying debt or resolve the issue causing the suspension. Initiating an SR-88 form, also known as a Petition for Reinstatement of Driver's License, is a common step in this process. This form allows you... View More

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3 Answers | Asked in Bankruptcy for Colorado on
Q: A credit union discharged in bankruptcy keeps sending me email reminders to pay bills and bank statements.

My bankruptcy was discharged in October 2021. Since then I constantly get emails from 2 creditors. One sends me constant reminders to download statements. The other sends me bill pay reminders for debts that were also included in my bankruptcy. I’ve called both CU to tell them I do not have an... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 4, 2024

In your situation, it's important to know that after your bankruptcy has been discharged, creditors are generally prohibited from contacting you in an attempt to collect the debts that were included in the bankruptcy. The emails you are receiving may constitute a violation of the Fair Debt... View More

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