Why Does Chapter 13 Get a Bad Rap?
Why Does Chapter 13 Get a Bad Rap? Many people assume Chapter 13 bankruptcy is the “bad” kind of bankruptcy—but most of what you’ve heard is wrong. Before making any decisions, you should understand why Chapter 13 gets such a bad rap, what it really does, and how it often saves people more money than […]
How Long Does a Bankruptcy Stay on Credit Reports — and What You Can Do About It
How Long Does a Bankruptcy Stay on Credit Reports — and What You Can Do About It A Chapter 7 bankruptcy stays on your credit report for up to 10 years from the filing date, and a Chapter 13 bankruptcy stays for up to 7 years from the filing date — not the discharge date. […]
The Truth About Offer in Compromise vs. Partial Pay Installment Agreements
The Truth About Offer in Compromise vs. Partial Pay Installment Agreements Why the “pennies on the dollar” offer isn’t always the best option. The Offer in Compromise Obsession We get it—everyone wants an Offer in Compromise (OIC). You’ve seen the ads: “Settle your tax debt for pennies on the dollar!” But what those commercials don’t […]
Why You Might Not Qualify for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy (Even If You Think You Should)
Why You Might Not Qualify for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy (Even If You Think You Should) Many people assume that if they’re struggling with debt, they’ll automatically qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy — but that’s not always true. Chapter 7 is designed for people who truly cannot pay back their debts. The Means Test, which measures […]
15 Questions to Ask Before Filing Bankruptcy
15 Questions to Ask Before Filing Bankruptcy Filing for bankruptcy isn’t about failure — it’s about taking control of your finances and rebuilding your future. For many people, it’s a turning point that replaces stress and sleepless nights with relief and structure. Before you decide to file, it’s worth taking time to think about where […]
Financial Survival During a Government Shutdown: What Federal Employees and Contractors Can Do
Financial Survival During a Government Shutdown: What Federal Employees and Contractors Can Do When the federal government shuts down, hundreds of thousands of employees and contractors across Virginia, D.C., and Maryland face an instant financial crisis. Paychecks stop, projects pause, and expenses continue. If you suddenly find yourself without income, you’re not alone — and […]
Debt Collection Complaints Are Soaring— What Virginia Consumers Need to Know
Debt Collection Complaints Are Soaring Here’s What Virginia Consumers Need to Know About Their Rights, Lawsuits, and Options Debt collection complaints are rising nationwide — particularly around credit cards, medical bills, and personal loans. A recent USA Today report revealed that consumers are experiencing more aggressive tactics, frequent calls, and confusing disputes over old or […]
Debt After Divorce: How to Manage It — and When Bankruptcy May Help
Debt After Divorce: How to Manage It — and When Bankruptcy May Help Divorce can be emotionally and financially draining. Splitting one household into two often doubles your expenses while income stays the same. Many people leave marriage with credit cards, joint loans, or lingering debts they never expected to shoulder alone. Understanding how debt […]
How Do You Pay a Bankruptcy Lawyer If You Have No Money?
How Do You Pay a Bankruptcy Lawyer If You Have No Money? You’re dodging collection calls. Bills are piling up. You know bankruptcy could help—but how can you possibly afford a lawyer when you can’t even keep the lights on? At Ashley F. Morgan Law, PC, we hear this every day. If you’re worried about […]
How To File Bankruptcy Without a Lawyer?
How To File Bankruptcy Without a Lawyer? Filing for bankruptcy without a lawyer—also known as filing “pro se”—is legally allowed in the United States. Some people try this route to save money, but bankruptcy law is complex and full of traps for the unwary. Even honest mistakes can lead to lost assets, case dismissal, or […]