Understanding the New Bankruptcy Law: Key Changes and Implications

Q: Can I file for bankruptcy more than once?

Yes, but there are specific waiting periods between filings, especially for Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases.

Q: What debts are not dischargeable in bankruptcy?

Common non-dischargeable debts include student loans, child support, and certain tax obligations.

Definition & Meaning

The New Bankruptcy Law refers to significant changes made to the U.S. bankruptcy system through the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005. Enacted on October 17, 2005, this law introduced new eligibility criteria for individuals seeking bankruptcy protection, particularly Chapter 7 filings. It established a means test to determine if a debtor's income is low enough to qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, aiming to prevent abuse of the bankruptcy system.

Table of content

Legal Use & context

The New Bankruptcy Law is primarily used in the context of bankruptcy proceedings, which fall under federal law. This law impacts various legal areas, including consumer rights and financial obligations. Individuals considering bankruptcy can utilize legal forms and resources, such as those offered by US Legal Forms, to navigate the filing process effectively.

Key legal elements

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

For instance, a person with a high income may find that they do not qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy due to the means test, thus requiring them to file for Chapter 13 instead, which involves a repayment plan. (hypothetical example)

Relevant laws & statutes

The primary statute governing the New Bankruptcy Law is the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005. This act outlines the eligibility requirements and procedural changes for bankruptcy filings.

Comparison with related terms

Term	Definition	Key Differences
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy	A liquidation bankruptcy for individuals with limited income.	Requires means testing under the New Bankruptcy Law.
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy	A reorganization bankruptcy allowing individuals to create a repayment plan.	Does not require means testing, but has repayment obligations.

Common misunderstandings

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are considering filing for bankruptcy under the New Bankruptcy Law, start by assessing your financial situation and exploring your options. It may be beneficial to complete mandatory credit counseling. You can also utilize legal form templates from US Legal Forms to assist with your filing. However, if your case is complex, seeking advice from a qualified attorney is recommended.

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Quick facts

Effective Date: October 17, 2005
Key Provisions: Means testing, mandatory credit counseling, restrictions on automatic stays
Types of Bankruptcy Affected: Chapter 7 and Chapter 13

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

What is the means test?

The means test is a calculation used to determine whether an individual qualifies for Chapter 7 bankruptcy based on their income and expenses.