Do I Have Other Options for Secured Debts?

You may be able to keep the collateral on a secured debt by paying the creditor in a lump sum the amount the item is worth rather than what you owe on the loan.  This is your right under the bankruptcy law to “redeem” the collateral.

Redeeming collateral can save you hundreds of dollars.  Since furniture, appliances and other household goods go down in value quickly once they are used, you may redeem them for a lot less than their original cost or what you owe on the account.

You may have another option if the creditor did not loan you the money to buy the collateral, like when a creditor takes a lien on household goods you already have.  You may be able to ask the court to “avoid” this kind of lien.  This will make the debt unsecured.

For more information about bankruptcy, please call us at 408-294-6100, or e-mail us via info@sjconsumerlaw.com.  One of our attorneys will be able to answer any questions which you may have in greater detail.  Please remember that the foregoing information is of a general nature, and does not constitute legal advice.  The facts of each situation are unique, and we must discuss those facts with you before any advice can be given.