Charged Off Debt: What It Really Means and How Bankruptcy Can Help
Updated on 29 November 2023
What is Charged-Off Debt?
Charged-off debt is really just a tricky accounting term. When debts or assets are “charged off,” it simply means they’ve been removed from a balance sheet.
The Consequences of Charged-Off Debt
Let’s say you haven’t paid your credit card debt in six months. At some point, the creditor can no longer carry it on their books as a current asset. Therefore, their accountant takes it off the books; in other words, they charge it off. While the debt may no longer be your creditor’s problem, it’s most certainly still your problem. Often times, creditors will get rid of bad debts by selling or transferring them to a collection agency or debt buyer. That’s when the harassment starts.
The Impact on Your Credit Score
Besides setting you up for a barrage of phone calls and letters from determined debt collectors, unpaid charge-offs will deeply damage your credit score. The only thing worse than being late on your debts is not paying them at all, and lenders and prospective landlords and employers who see a charged-off debt won’t give you the time of day. Once a debt has been charged off, it will remain on your credit report for seven years. That’s a long time to suffer the consequences of delinquent debt. Though states have various statutes of limitations for collecting on unpaid accounts, most will allow creditors to sue in court for up to three to six years.
Why You Shouldn't Ignore Charged-Off Debt
Having your debt charged off isn’t an excuse to ignore it. If anything, it’s a wake-up call that you need to do something about your debt situation. Ignoring your debt will only make the problem worse. The longer you go without making payments, the more damage it will do to your credit score, and the more aggressive debt collectors will become in their efforts to collect.
Filing for Bankruptcy and Charged-Off Debt
Should you decide to file for bankruptcy, it’s important to include any charged-off debts. A Chapter 7 bankruptcy plan can eliminate unsecured debts like credit card debt completely. Additionally, the automatic stay that goes into effect when you file prevents creditors or debt collectors from contacting you directly.
Bankruptcy: The Solution for Debt Relief
When you file for bankruptcy, you no longer owe money after your debts are discharged. But when you live with a charge-off, you’re taking a gamble that whoever is currently holding your debt won’t come after you – and the odds aren’t in your favor. Bankruptcy is the only solution guaranteed to lower or eliminate debt – and usually the trouble that goes along with it. The sooner you face your financial struggles, the sooner you can overcome them. Bankruptcy can help.
Additional Tips for Managing Charged-Off Debt
If you have charged-off debt, there are a few things you can do to manage the situation:
- Contact your creditors: Try contacting your creditors and see if you can negotiate a settlement or a payment plan that works for you. While they may not always be willing to work with you, it’s worth a shot.
- Check your credit report: Make sure the charged-off debt is accurately reflected on your credit report. If there are any errors, dispute them with the credit reporting agency.
- Seek help: If you’re overwhelmed by debt, seek the help of a professional. A credit counselor or bankruptcy attorney can help you understand your options and create a plan for managing your debt.
Seek Help from Experienced Bankruptcy Attorneys
Contact DebtStoppers today to speak with our experienced bankruptcy attorneys about your options for finding financial freedom.
Understanding the Different Types of Bankruptcy
Bankruptcy is a complex process, and it's important to understand the different types of bankruptcy available to you. Chapter 7 bankruptcy is designed for individuals who have little or no disposable income, while Chapter 13 bankruptcy is for individuals who have a regular income but are struggling with debt. There are also other types of bankruptcy, such as Chapter 11 for businesses and Chapter 12 for farmers and fishermen.
The Bankruptcy Process: What to Expect
If you're considering bankruptcy, it's important to know what to expect from the process. Generally, you'll need to provide detailed financial information to the court, attend credit counseling, and attend a meeting with creditors. You'll also need to complete a debtor education course before your debts can be discharged.
The Pros and Cons of Filing for Bankruptcy
While bankruptcy can provide relief from overwhelming debt, it's important to consider the pros and cons before filing. On the positive side, bankruptcy can stop creditor harassment, eliminate certain debts, and give you a fresh start. However, it can also damage your credit score, make it harder to get credit in the future, and involve significant legal fees.
Alternatives to Bankruptcy
Bankruptcy isn't always the best solution for everyone. Depending on your situation, there may be other options available, such as debt consolidation, debt settlement, or credit counseling. These alternatives can help you get your debt under control without the negative consequences of bankruptcy.
Working with a Bankruptcy Attorney
If you're considering bankruptcy, it's important to work with an experienced bankruptcy attorney who can guide you through the process and help you make the best decisions for your situation. A bankruptcy attorney can also help you understand the different types of bankruptcy available to you and the pros and cons of each option.
Rebuilding Your Credit After Bankruptcy
While bankruptcy can have a negative impact on your credit score, it's not the end of the road. There are steps you can take to rebuild your credit after bankruptcy, such as paying your bills on time, monitoring your credit report, and using secured credit cards responsibly. With time and effort, you can improve your credit score and regain your financial stability.
Managing Your Finances After Bankruptcy
After your debts have been discharged, it's important to develop good financial habits to avoid falling back into debt. This may include creating a budget, building an emergency fund, and avoiding unnecessary expenses. By managing your finances responsibly, you can build a strong financial foundation and avoid the pitfalls of debt in the future.
Conclusion: Taking Control of Your Financial Future
Whether you're dealing with charged-off debt or other financial struggles, it's important to take control of your financial future. Bankruptcy can be a powerful tool for getting your debt under control, but it's important to weigh the pros and cons and consider alternatives before filing. With the help of a bankruptcy attorney and good financial management, you can take the first steps towards financial freedom.
