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Bankruptcy Timing: Chapter 7 vs 13

Chapter 7 (liquidate assets, most debt discharged, 10-year hit) vs Chapter 13 (3-5 year repay plan, less severe hit) — Chapter 7 if debt >60% income, Chapter 13 if can repay 25-30% of debt. Timing:...

Editorial Team February 25, 2026

Bankruptcy Timing: Chapter 7 vs 13

Chapter 7 (liquidate assets, most debt discharged, 10-year hit) vs Chapter 13 (3-5 year repay plan, less severe hit) — Chapter 7 if debt >60% income, Chapter 13 if can repay 25-30% of debt. Timing: file when expected income will be lowest (layoff, business closure) = save $30K-60K in debt

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*Key Metrics: Bankruptcy Timing | Timeline: 30-35 mins | Effort: Minimal | ROI: $10,000-60,000*

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