Personal bankruptcy generally is considered the debt management option of last resort because the results are long-lasting and far-reaching. A bankruptcy will remain on your credit report for 10 years these days. BK's make things difficult for your credit, because it cause your fico score to drop significantly, as well as tagging a "Bankruptcy" to the derogatory section of your credit report. According to the federal reserve, "Bankruptcies make it difficult to acquire credit, buy a home, get life insurance, or sometimes, get a job. However, it is a legal procedure that offers a fresh start for people who can't satisfy their debts."

There are two kinds of personal bankruptcy: Chapter 13 and Chapter 7. Each must be filed in federal court. Filing fees are approximately $200, and Attorney fees are not included.

Chapter 13 is BK based on reorganization. Ch. 13 allows debtors to keep property, like a home or a car. Reorganization may allow you to pay off a default during a three-to-five-year period, rather than surrender any property.

Chapter 7 is a BK based on dissolving debt. This bankruptcy involves liquidation of all assets that are not exempt in your state. Exempt property may include work-related tools and basic household furnishings. Some of your property may be sold by a court-appointed official or turned over to your creditors. You can file for Chapter 7 only once every six years.

Both types of bankruptcy may get rid of unsecured debts and stop foreclosures, repossessions, garnishments, utility shut-offs, and debt collection activities. Both also provide exemptions that allow people to keep certain assets, although exemption amounts vary among states.

Note that personal bankruptcy usually does not erase child support, alimony, fines, taxes, and some student loan obligations. And unless you have an acceptable plan to catch up on your debt under Chapter 13, bankruptcy usually does not allow you to keep property when your creditor has an unpaid mortgage or lien on it.

Art is a critically acclaimed writer, who has published many helpful articles mortgage realated topics. Over the last few years, Art has been a mortgage consultant helping train loan officers for some of the nation's top mortgage companies. If you would like to read more helpful articles online, visit Bad Credit Mortgage Refinance. To get more advice & finance tips, please contact go online to learn more about program updates and the approval process for Second Mortgages and Bad Credit Mortgage Loans. The federal reserve has additional information that we suggest you review online.