Workers Compensation: Your Safety Net

Medical care is not a luxury in life; it is a necessity. However, it cannot be overlooked that the cost of this care and treatment can sometimes be enormous. Some people find themselves in the midst of financial turmoil all due to mounting medical bills as a result. Bankruptcy can sometimes be used as a way to deal with this debt; learn more about this process.

Timing Is Important

You can work to dismiss or minimize your medical debts with bankruptcy. However, it is important to time when you file just right. Bankruptcy will only offer protection for those debts that you have already incurred, not future debts. 

For this reason, if you are still in the midst of treatment or anticipate that you will have more high-cost treatment in the future, you may want to wait. In this scenario, it is best to wait until you have all the bills in front of you to determine just how much of a financial concern it is. 

Income Matters More Than Debt

When you have mounting medical bills you are facing, it is easy to form tunnel vision. However, if you plan to file for bankruptcy, it is important to understand that your income will also matter. Again, medical bills are often covered under bankruptcy protection, but that does not mean that the court will not also examine your income. 

No matter how expensive the bills are, your bankruptcy will only be approved if it is shown that your income is too low to support a suitable repayment. If you are unsure where you stand, it is best to have an attorney review your information. 

The Right Bankruptcy Method Is Important

It is important to keep in mind that the type of bankruptcy you file is also important. Typically, people will choose between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Chapter 7 bankruptcy will completely wipe out your debt, but it does come with more rigid income restrictions. Chapter 13 bankruptcy puts you on a payment plan, but its income restrictions are less stringent. 

It is helpful to consider whether or not you have incurred other debts that you are unable to manage. If so, and you are not a high-income earner, your best pathway forward long-term may be to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, as it will offer you the most relief.

If you have mounting medical bills, an attorney may be able to help you deal with this debt. Contact a lawyer who offers bankruptcy services to learn more.