Texas Bankruptcy Blog : Texas Bankruptcy Lawyer & Attorney : Fears Nachawati law Firm : Chapter 7, Chapter 13, Consumer Bankrutpcy : Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin, Houston, San Antonio

Data recently released by Standard & Poor shows that home prices have dropped roughly two percent nationwide since June. This news is a grim reminder to homeowners that real estate is dragging behind in the economic recovery. In some cities, notably Phoenix and Las Vegas, home prices are now roughly where they were in 2000, while a 27 percent advance would have been needed to keep pace with inflation.

Some analysts have speculated that the homebuyer's tax credit artificially supported the housing market, and now that this credit has ended, the impact of foreclosures and a glut of homes for sale will depress prices in many areas. However, an improving economy could offset that trend and increase demand for homes as the job market improves.

In many cases the federal bankruptcy laws can help a family deal with a home that is losing value. During a Chapter 13 bankruptcy a debtor is able to strip away an entirely unsecured second and/or third home lien. A junior lien is unsecured when the senior lien is more than the value of the home. An unsecured junior lien can be stripped and the debt discharged during a Chapter 13 bankruptcy.

A Chapter 13 bankruptcy also provides an opportunity to negotiate with the lender for a modification of the debt. In some cases the lender may reduce principle or interest and modify the existing note, making staying and paying on the home a more attractive option.

During Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, a debtor is able to walk away from a house and discharge the debt. In this way bankruptcy can be used as a financial tool to relieve the burden of a declining investment.

If you are struggling with debt and overwhelmed by a home that is depreciating in value, speak with an experienced bankruptcy attorney and discuss your options. Your bankruptcy attorney can help you devise a plan to eliminate your debt and improve your financial situation, both short term and long term.
 

A bankruptcy proof of claim is an allegation against the debtor of a debt that arose on or before the date of the bankruptcy filing. It is an allegation because the bankruptcy debtor may contest this allegation. The bankruptcy court accepts the creditor’s proof of claim as true until the debtor files an objection and disputes it.

In cases where there is no distribution of money to creditors (called a “no asset case”), filing a proof of claim is not necessary. Consequently, claims are not filed in most Chapter 7 cases. In Chapter 13 cases, when creditors expect to be paid, the proof of claim is a prerequisite to payment from the trustee.

A proof of claim can be filed by a creditor, the debtor, or the bankruptcy trustee. If an unsecured creditor fails to file a proof of claim, the claim is not allowed and the trustee will not pay the creditor. This can be problematic to the debtor in certain cases and may necessitate the debtor filing a proof of claim so that the creditor can be paid. Failure to file a proof of claim does not impact a secured creditor’s lien against collateral.

The bankruptcy court uses a standard proof of claim form. In most cases this form is mailed to creditors during Chapter 13 cases or Chapter 7 asset cases. A proof of claim should include a copy of any supporting documentation (a promissory note or other loan paperwork), as well as evidence of perfection of a secured claim. A creditor must file the proof of claim prior to the claims deadline (bar date). This date is set by the bankruptcy court, but cannot exceed ninety days after the first date set for the Meeting of Creditors.

A debtor may object to a proof of claim. Common objections include:
* Not timely filed;
* Incorrect claim amount;
* Improper claim;
* Debt paid in full;
* Failure to attach adequate supporting documentation.

If you are considering filing a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, expect to have your creditors file claims. Each proof of claim should be reviewed by you and your attorney to ensure that the claim is accurate. Failure to timely object to the proof of claim may substantially impact your case.
 

The National Retail Federation reports that gift cards are the most-requested holiday gift for the fourth consecutive year and expects gift card spending will reach nearly $25 billion this year. A recent survey found that 77.3 percent of holiday shoppers intend to buy at least one gift card. So chances are you received one as a gift, but do you know there are federal rules that govern these cards?

As of August 22, 2010, provisions of the Federal Credit CARD Act took effect and impose many new regulations on gift card issuers. These new regulations contain some powerful protections, and also a few surprises:

First, gift cards purchased on or after August 22 must hold their value for five years. The five year period restarts for each new dollar reloaded onto the card. Be aware: the card itself may expire, but not your money! If your gift card expires before five years and there's still money left on it, contact the issuing company have your balance transferred to a new card. Companies are required to do this for free.

Second, the issuing company cannot charge an “inactivity fee” on your gift card until the card has not been used for 12 months. Previously some cards charged inactivity fees of $2.50 each month until the card balance reached zero.

Third, information concerning gift card fees, expiration date, and the company’s toll-free phone number or website must be printed on the card.

Fourth, while the Credit CARD Act contains many strong consumer protections from unscrupulous companies, it does not apply to universal prepaid gift cards. These cards typically have a major credit card company logo (e.g. Visa or MasterCard) printed on the front and can be used at any retailer.  These cards may still expire and assess fees.

Fifth, federal and state laws don’t protect consumers who have gift cards to businesses that declare bankruptcy. In the past some consumers have lost money on their gift cards when the issuing store filed for bankruptcy protection. For example, when The Sharper Image filed bankruptcy in February of 2008, they stopped accepting gift cards from customers. While technically you can file a claim in bankruptcy court for the value of your gift card, the chances of receiving payment is slim.

The best advice for dealing with a gift card is: use it quickly. Delay in use risks losing money through inactivity fees or bankruptcy. Gift cards are not savings devices, they are meant to permit you to purchase a gift for yourself. Use the card and enjoy your purchase.

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Most bankruptcy cases end with a discharge order from a federal bankruptcy judge. The discharge is a permanent injunction that prohibits pre-bankruptcy creditors from collecting against the debtor, and is a “fresh start” for the debtor. It effectively eliminates many debts and allows the debtor to start over with his or her finances.

Taking care of your finances after receiving your bankruptcy discharge is extremely important. The bankruptcy law requires that you complete a financial management course prior to your discharge which teaches basic management techniques. While this course is helpful, the first step in managing your finances after your bankruptcy is to identify any post-discharge debts.

First, what personal debt survived your bankruptcy case? Post-discharge personal debt generally falls into one of three categories: (1) debt automatically excepted from discharge; (2) debt excepted from discharge by court order; and (3) post-petition debts. Debts automatically excepted from discharge include student loans, most taxes, and child support obligations. Debts excepted from discharge by court order include debts involving fraud or other bad conduct. Post-petition debts are debts that first arise after the day you file your bankruptcy case. Post-petition debts are not included in your bankruptcy case and are not discharged.

Second, do you have property debt that survived the bankruptcy? In certain cases the personal obligation to pay a debt may be discharged, but the property lien survives. Although you owe nothing to the creditor, items secured by a property lien may be repossessed. Consult with your attorney and determine what, if any, property may be at risk of repossession after your bankruptcy.

Finally, did you agree to any new financial obligation during your bankruptcy case? Be clear about any new or changed financial obligation that you agreed to during your bankruptcy case. If you executed a reaffirmation agreement, redemption loan, or modification, make sure you understand the terms and obligations contained in that agreement.

You and your attorney should discuss the impact of your bankruptcy discharge on your debts. Be certain that you understand which obligations are discharged and which survive the bankruptcy case. Your bankruptcy attorney is happy to discuss your options for managing any debt that survives the bankruptcy discharge.

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Recently many Americans have sought bankruptcy protection as a result of the recession and housing crisis. Unfortunately, the bankruptcy laws cannot force a lender to refinance your home mortgage. However, you ay be able to modify your home mortgage during a Chapter 13 bankruptcy under the “Making Home Affordable” program. In Chapter 7, you may seek refinancing after bankruptcy.

If you seek refinancing from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac after your Chapter 7 bankruptcy, the discharge must have been granted more than four years previously. FHA requires two years between the discharge date and a home loan. Borrowers must show a good credit history since the discharge and the ability to manage personal finances.  In some cases a borrower may obtain financing before the two year mark, if there is evidence of extenuating circumstances causing the bankruptcy.

Qualifying for refinancing is no different for individuals with bankruptcy on their credit record. The minimum credit score is currently set at 580. The borrower must show an acceptable debt to income ratio, stable employment, and a history of responsible credit management. A lender may ask the borrower for a statement explaining how the events that led to the bankruptcy are not likely to recur.

The FHA offers a “streamlined refinancing” program for qualified borrowers. Information about this program can be found at the Department of Housing and Urban Development web site: http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/buying/streamli.cfm

If you need to file bankruptcy, but are concerned about keeping your home, speak with an experienced bankruptcy attorney. Your attorney can discuss your options under the federal bankruptcy laws, as well as your after-bankruptcy options for refinancing. Don’t let your financial circumstances get the best of you! Know your legal rights and use the law to your advantage.

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When a Chapter 7 or 13 bankruptcy petition is filed, the bankruptcy court issues an injunction forbidding any collection action against the debtor. This protection is called the “automatic stay” because once the case is filed the injunction happens immediately and automatically. The automatic stay prohibits telephone harassment, lawsuits, garnishments, and even letters attempting to collect on a debt. The stay typically continues until the case is dismissed, the debtor receives a discharged, or the bankruptcy court otherwise amends the order.

In some cases a creditor may want to amend the automatic stay and proceed with collection against the debtor. To accomplish this, the creditor must file a “Motion to Lift Stay” with the bankruptcy court. This motion is filed routinely when the debtor is not making the monthly payment on secured property (e.g. a house or car). The creditor will seek leave from the court to lift the stay and either foreclose or repossess the collateral.

To succeed in a Motion to Lift Stay, the creditor must show that it has good cause for the request. Generally lack of payments since the bankruptcy filing will constitute good cause. Additionally, good cause may exist if the debtor has failed to keep insurance on the collateral.

Defending a Motion to Lift Stay usually boils down to making payments. Once the debtor is current on the monthly payments the creditor’s motion is generally denied. The debtor may also challenge the creditor’s standing. This may occur when a mortgage is at issue that changed hands several times. If the creditor cannot prove to the court that it is the current holder of the promissory note, the bankruptcy court will not consider the creditor’s motion. Finally, the debtor may negotiate a resolution of the issue with the creditor. The debtor pays something and makes additional promises for future payments, and the creditor withdraws the motion.

If you intend to retain secured property after your bankruptcy filing, consult with your attorney and discuss your payment obligations. The general rule is that “secured property must be paid for or returned.” Making payments after bankruptcy can avoid a Motion to Lift Stay on your property.

Occasionally an individual or couple cannot qualify for a Chapter 13 repayment bankruptcy and must file under Chapter 13. The procedure for proposing a Chapter 11 plan of reorganization is dictated by the Bankruptcy Code and is in many ways similar to a Chapter 13 bankruptcy. The Chapter 11 bankruptcy debtor may file a plan of reorganization during the first 120-day period after the case is filed, and the debtor has 180 days after the entry of the order for relief to obtain creditor acceptance of its plan. After that period a creditor may file a proposed plan with the court. A bankruptcy trustee, if one is appointed, will also file its own plan, or a recommendation for conversion or dismissal of the case.

The Bankruptcy Code lists mandatory and discretionary provisions of a Chapter 11 plan, including the designation of classes of claims and interests. Generally, a plan will classify claim holders as secured creditors, unsecured creditors entitled to priority, general unsecured creditors, and equity security holders. These classes will vote on the acceptance or rejection of the proposed plan(s).

Before confirmation of a plan of reorganization can be granted, the court must be satisfied that the plan is in compliance with all the requirements for confirmation stated in the Bankruptcy Code. In order to confirm the plan, the court must find, among other things, that: (1) the plan is feasible; (2) it is proposed in good faith; and (3) the plan is in compliance with the Bankruptcy Code. In order to satisfy the feasibility requirement, the court must find that confirmation of the plan is not likely to be followed by liquidation or the need for further financial reorganization.

A Chapter 11 bankruptcy case is a complex legal proceeding requiring the leadership of a skilled and experienced bankruptcy attorney. An experienced bankruptcy attorney can guide you through the Chapter 11 process, and help you reach the best possible financial outcome.

A lawsuit can cause tremendous anxiety. Many lawsuits are filed every day by creditors seeking to collect on credit card debts and medical bills. Common sense should tell you that if you owe the money, there are few legitimate defenses that will prevent a judgment. When you are served with notice of a lawsuit, you will need to defend the lawsuit. If you fail to respond to the lawsuit, fail to answer discovery requests (interrogatories, requests for admissions, production of documents, etc.), or fail to show up to court, the court may enter a judgment against you. Even if you are successful in navigating all of these procedural landmines, you may lose your case. Once the plaintiff has a judgment against you it can seize property or garnish your wages. A lawsuit will also be recorded on your credit report where it stays for seven years (or longer). Do you need a lawyer? Yes! Will it make a difference? Probably not. If you are facing a lawsuit for a bad debt, you should consider whether a personal bankruptcy can help. Once a bankruptcy petition is filed, you are under the protection of a federal judge’s court order directing creditors to stop all collection actions, including any pending litigation. This protection is called the automatic stay, because it stops creditors immediately upon filing the bankruptcy case. The automatic stay also stops wage garnishments (except for a few narrow exceptions like child support), foreclosure actions, and property seizures. Once the bankruptcy court discharges a debt or state court judgment, the creditor can no longer enforce the debt against you. While a single lawsuit may not be a good reason to file a lawsuit, it usually is a warning sign that you need help. If you have been sued, contact an experienced bankruptcy attorney and review your legal options. Bankruptcy can stop a lawsuit and discharge credit card debt, medical bills, and personal loans.

Bankruptcy is expensive. Whether you are in a repayment plan or a Chapter 7 liquidation, court fees, credit counseling fees, and attorney fees can really add up. Some bankruptcy debtors are tempted to "go it alone" and file a bankruptcy case without an attorney. However, before you file a "pro se" bankruptcy, consider how your choice will affect your case.

First, proceeding pro se (Latin meaning “for himself”) does not entitle you to special treatment during your bankruptcy case.  The court expects and requires that you file all of the bankruptcy paperwork correctly, obey all of the orders of the bankruptcy court, and follow all of the proper procedures outlined in the Bankruptcy Code, the Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure, as well as in the bankruptcy court's local rules. These rules are often supplemented by case law and the procedural customs of the trustee and the judge. 

Bankruptcy attorneys have studied these laws, cases, and rules during three years in law school, and years afterwards in actual practice representing real clients in bankruptcy court. Bankruptcy debtors benefit from the knowledge and experience of experienced bankruptcy counsel.

Second, the federal and state exemption laws can be very complex. In some cases criminal laws or collection laws may be implicated. Protecting your property is one of the chief goals of the bankruptcy process, and one of the easiest to foul up. Failing to properly protect an asset during bankruptcy could result in the loss of that asset, including a home, vehicle, retirement account, or other valuable property.

Third, even if the pro se bankruptcy debtor is able to navigate the bankruptcy procedure and adequately protect her assets, can the case withstand the scrutiny of the bankruptcy trustee? Because the debtor is pro se, the trustee will spend extra time evaluating the case and closely inspecting the bankruptcy paperwork. Frankly, the trustee does not trust the pro se debtor and will assume that the debtor is concealing assets (either on purpose or by honest mistake). Pro se debtors are often placed at the end of the 341 meeting docket and receive "extra attention" from the trustee (never a good thing).

Fourth, a skilled bankruptcy attorney may be reluctant to step into the middle of a pro se case when things go wrong. The case may also degenerate to the point where dismissal or conversion may be the only options.

Bankruptcy cases are being filed in record numbers. The vast majority of bankruptcy cases are processed quickly and efficiently. On the other hand, pro se filings are always red flagged as potential problem cases and receive extra attention - and rightly so! Many of these cases have problems.  Some pro se cases result in loss of property, and others have allegations of bankruptcy fraud. Don't risk your property or your peace of mind. Hire an experienced attorney to guide you safely through the bankruptcy process.

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After filing a bankruptcy case, some debtors experience “cold feet.”  Some have difficulty facing the trustee at the 341 meeting.  Others cannot meet their Chapter 13 plan payment obligations.  Still others are tempted by the promises of a non-bankruptcy resolution, like debt consolidation.  Before you back out of your bankruptcy case, make sure that your decision will be in your best interest.

Once you abandon your bankruptcy case, the federal legal protections that prevent your creditors from collecting will expire.  Your bankruptcy case prohibits creditors from filing lawsuits, garnishing wages, and calling or otherwise harassing you over your debt.  The minute your case is dismissed you become fair game to your creditors.

Failing to complete your bankruptcy case means you will not receive the benefits of a bankruptcy discharge.  Once your bankruptcy case is completed, the court issues a bankruptcy discharge which acts as a legal injunction forever prohibiting creditors from collecting from you personally.  This protection is extremely powerful and never expires.  On the other hand, when your case is dismissed, the creditor may charge you with interest and/or penalties that you did not anticipate.

If you dismiss your case and later re-file, you will have two bankruptcy cases on your credit file.  Dismissing a bankruptcy case does not erase the first case from your record and does not lessen its impact on your credit score.

If circumstances change after you file your bankruptcy case, discuss the matter with your attorney.  Most problems can be resolved without dismissing the case.  For instance, a Chapter 13 debtor who suffers a loss of income may be able to convert the case to a Chapter 7 and receive a discharge without further repayment.  In another example, if a Chapter 7 debtor incurs unexpected medical debt, the debtor can convert the case to Chapter 13 and include the new, post-petition medical bills in the Chapter 13 case. 

The general rule in bankruptcy is, “Once filed, follow through.”  However, every case is different and presents its own challenges.  Speak with your attorney and discuss your legal options.  You and your attorney can formulate a plan that will benefit you and your family.

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Over 70% of all consumer bankruptcy cases are filed under Chapter 7 of the Bankruptcy Code. While “going along with the crowd” is not a good reason to file Chapter 7, there are good reasons to choose Chapter 7 over Chapter 13. Below are five common reasons why bankruptcy debtors choose Chapter 7:

Reason 1: File Chapter 7 when there is no good reason to file Chapter 13
Chapter 13 contains very useful and powerful tools that can save property (like a house or a car), can strip off an unsecured second mortgage, or can even keep the IRS off your back. When there are no assets at risk, and the debtor does not need on-going court protection, there may not be a good reason to file Chapter 13.

Reason 2: Chapter 7 is quicker
Most Chapter 7 bankruptcy cases will close between three to five months. Chapter 13 cases run three to five years.

Reason 3: There is no repayment plan in Chapter 7
The Chapter 13 debtor proposes a plan to repay his creditors. The debtor pays what he can to his creditors over three to five years. In a typical Chapter 7 case, unsecured creditors receive nothing and are discharged at the end of the case. Secured property is either surrendered back to the creditor, or the debtor reaffirms the debt and continues to pay just as before the bankruptcy.

Reason 4: There is not extra income to pay creditors
Chapter 7 is generally not available where the debtor’s income exceeds his state median income and demonstrates an ability to repay his creditors. When there is no extra money to pay creditors, it may make more sense to “start fresh” with a quick bankruptcy discharge.

Reason 5: It costs less to file Chapter 13
The typical Chapter 7 no-asset case is simple and straight-forward. Chapter 7 is completed within about three to four months. The typical Chapter 13 case involves assets the repayment of a debt or debts over three to five years. Consequently, attorneys charge more for Chapter 13 cases.

If you have financial problems that won’t go away, speak with an experienced attorney and consider your options under the federal Bankruptcy Code. An experienced bankruptcy attorney can explain the benefits of Chapter 7 and Chapter 13, and help you develop a plan to solve your financial dilemma.

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While the bankruptcy laws are complex and a mystery to most attorneys, filing a typical consumer bankruptcy case is a simple process for an experienced bankruptcy attorney. Preparing the usual debtor’s case for filing can be described in three easy steps: the initial interview, credit counseling, and preparing the petition and schedules.

The first step in the process is the initial interview. Most attorneys call this first meeting a "client interview," because it’s an opportunity for the attorney to ask questions about the client's finances and obtain information. During the initial interview your attorney will ask you to provide information concerning your debts, assets, income, and expenses. Any information requested by your attorney is extremely important to your case.

The initial interview is also an opportunity for you to ask questions and gain information about your attorney and the bankruptcy process. Don't be afraid to ask questions during this time! Your attorney is happy to share his experience and knowledge with you.

The second step is attending credit counseling. Since 2005, consumer bankruptcy debtors have been required to complete a session with a certified credit counselor prior to filing a bankruptcy case. This counselor must be approved by the U.S. Trustee and your attorney can provide you a list of approved counselors. Failure to complete credit counseling before filing will almost certainly result in the dismissal of the bankruptcy case.

The third and final step before filing your case is the preparation of the bankruptcy petition and schedules. The completed paperwork is usually a few dozen pages and provides the bankruptcy court with a clear picture of your finances. Once your paperwork is prepared, you will review the information and affirm its accuracy with your signature. While many television shows portray honest and cooperative individuals who freely disclose information to the courts as naïve or even self-incriminating, the debtor is expected to be honest about his or her financial condition bankruptcy. Speak with your attorney candidly and do not conceal information! This is a time to be completely honest.

Organizing and analyzing your financial information before filing is the most important part of the bankruptcy process. In the hands of an experience bankruptcy attorney, filing your bankruptcy can be a quick and simple process. When you and your attorney cooperate, most bankruptcy cases take only a few days to prepare and file, quicker when there is an emergency.

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One of the most common questions asked about the bankruptcy process is, “Who will know about my bankruptcy case?” Filing bankruptcy is usually very confidential, but the Bankruptcy Code and Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure dictate that notice of your bankruptcy case must be sent to certain individuals and businesses.

Bankruptcy is a legal process and is a matter of public record. Few newspapers will publish bankruptcy filings in the “public notices” section. While this was a common practice for newspapers in the past, the sheer number of bankruptcy filings makes reporting personal bankruptcies impractical. This year more than a million and a half people will file bankruptcy, and more than 5.7 million people have filed since September 30, 2005. Unless you are a public figure or your bankruptcy case is somehow newsworthy, it likely will not appear in any section of a newspaper.

You are required to submit a list of the names and addresses of every individual or business you owe when your case is filed. Everyone on that list is sent a notice of your bankruptcy case. The notice also prohibits the creditor from taking any further collection activity. The bankruptcy court will send notices only to the names on your list of creditors, to your attorney, and a notice to your address. Friends and family members are not sent notices unless you identify them on your list.

Your employer may receive notice regarding your bankruptcy in a few limited circumstances. Obviously, if you owe your employer money, your employer will be notified. A second circumstance is when you file a Chapter 13 repayment bankruptcy and wish for your employer to withhold the plan payment from your wages. Finally, there may be a reason to notify your employer, like if your employer is under a court order to garnish your wages.

Since your bankruptcy case is a matter of public record, an individual may contact the bankruptcy court to obtain information about your case. Most bankruptcy courts have an automated telephone system that will provide basic case information to the public. Some individuals are able to access the Public Access to Court Electronic Records (PACER), an electronic public access service that allows users to obtain bankruptcy case information via the Internet. PACER registration is free, but the system charges an access fee per page.

The typical bankruptcy case is quick and confidential. However, every case is different. If you have specific questions about the effects of filing bankruptcy, consult with an experienced bankruptcy attorney. Your attorney can explain the benefits of the federal bankruptcy laws and the process for discharging your debts.

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For a person in financial trouble, examining options can mean the difference between a fresh start and a false start. Before you decide to use a debt settlement program to resolve your debt problem, arm yourself with information and make a wise decision. Below are six reasons that the federal bankruptcy laws may be a better choice than a debt settlement program:

First, the debt settlement process can take many months or even years, and your credit is harmed each month until the debt is settled. On the other hand, negative reporting of debts discharged in bankruptcy ends on the date you filed your bankruptcy case. Discharged debts are reported as “discharged in bankruptcy” with a “zero balance.”

Second, debt settlement programs typically settle your debt for 20% to 80. Creditors in most bankruptcy cases are paid nothing.

Third, any settled debt will have tax consequences and you may have to pay the IRS. A discharged debt has a special tax exemption and there is no tax liability.

Fourth, during the debt settlement process you may be sued, even while you or your representative attempts to settle your debt.  During bankruptcy all lawsuits are prohibited without the express permission of the bankruptcy court.

Fifth, many debt settlement companies are disreputable and lack a solid financial basis. You may lose your money and get nothing in return. The bankruptcy process is authorized by the United States Constitution and its laws are written by Congress. Only licensed attorneys admitted to practice in the federal courts are able to represent bankruptcy debtors.

Finally, the debt settlement process can take more than a year. The general rule is: the longer you don’t pay, the sweeter the settlement. Creditors are reluctant to accept less than full payment unless they believe that you may file bankruptcy. The typical chapter 7 bankruptcy case takes less than six months.

If you are considering a debt settlement program, you owe it to yourself to investigate your options and speak with an experienced bankruptcy attorney. The federal bankruptcy law is a powerful tool to eliminate your debt problem and put you on the road to financial recovery.

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