Understanding Individual with Regular Income (Bankruptcy) and Its Implications

Definition & Meaning

An individual with regular income is defined under the Federal Bankruptcy Code as a person whose income is stable and consistent enough to allow them to make payments under a Chapter 13 bankruptcy plan. This definition excludes stockbrokers and commodity brokers. Essentially, it refers to individuals who can reliably manage monthly payments based on their income, which is crucial for successfully navigating a Chapter 13 bankruptcy process.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A single parent with a steady job earning $3,000 per month can qualify as an individual with regular income. They can propose a payment plan to manage their debts through Chapter 13 bankruptcy.

Example 2: A married couple with combined monthly income of $5,000 from their jobs also qualifies. They can create a repayment plan to address their outstanding debts (hypothetical example).

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy A liquidation bankruptcy where non-exempt assets are sold to pay creditors. Individuals with regular income typically file Chapter 13, not Chapter 7.
Debtor A person or entity that owes money to another party. All individuals with regular income are debtors, but not all debtors have regular income.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you believe you qualify as an individual with regular income and are considering Chapter 13 bankruptcy, start by assessing your financial situation. Gather documentation of your income and expenses. You may want to use US Legal Forms to access templates for filing bankruptcy, which can simplify the process. If your situation is complicated, consulting with a legal professional is advisable to ensure you understand your options and obligations.

Quick facts

  • Eligibility: Individuals with stable income.
  • Process: Chapter 13 bankruptcy repayment plan.
  • Exclusions: Stockbrokers and commodity brokers.
  • Duration: Repayment plans typically last three to five years.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

Regular income includes wages, salaries, and other consistent earnings that allow for reliable monthly payments.