In most cases, bankruptcy is a reality that people do not really want to discuss. You are unlikely to have to declare bankruptcy; for that reason alone, you’ll never truly understand what it entails. Despite this, the US has a well-developed bankruptcy system for those who need it. Unfortunately, life is unpredictable, and you never know when your finances might spiral down to the point you need to file for bankruptcy. It is better to be well-informed.
Even if you think you are a responsible person who spends wisely with little to no risk of needing to file for bankruptcy. Bankruptcy is a serious matter resulting from various financial factors, some of which are beyond your control. To learn about the most common reasons for bankruptcy, we contacted Mark L. Miller at the Law Offices of Mark L. Miller.
Expenditures Without a Sense of Responsibility
A lack of money management skills may indeed lead to having to file for bankruptcy. It doesn’t matter if you’ve never had a good education in money management or you’re just struggling to adhere to a budget for the first time. You can only rack up so much debt before you become bankrupt. You can incur serious debt if your credit card payments exceed your ability to pay them after a while.
If you are not able or unwilling to control your spending, you might find yourself in such serious debt that bankruptcy is the only way out. But it is a way out.
Expenses You Can’t Predict
Although most people who feel they manage money well don’t think about this, they might be just a few dollars away from financial ruin if they face an unexpected expense. It is common for unforeseen expenses to occur when you are already struggling to meet your financial obligations. For example, car repairs or medical emergencies may arise. These expenses can make it difficult to get out of, especially if you don’t have emergency savings.
When unexpected expenses arise, even a person generally good with money can find himself in a difficult financial position. When this happens, bankruptcy is a viable alternative since people have a hard time recovering from their financial situation.
The Debt Associated With Medical Care
Medical debt is one of the most common reasons people turn to bankruptcy protection due to unexpected expenses. Even with health insurance, unexpected medical expenses can quickly accumulate into tens and thousands of dollars.
It is especially true for chronic diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure that require ongoing medication management. You may not be able to afford medications, even if your insurance covers some of them. Additionally, if you need surgery and are hospitalized for an extended period, your financial situation becomes even direr.
Reduced Income as a Result of Losing a Job
Having a lot of bills and other financial obligations can make it hard to make ends meet if you lose your job or face a significant income reduction.
Most people use their savings as a source of income during hard times. However, if that runs out, they quickly turn to credit cards or expensive loans, which often result in worse. In any case, these do not provide reliable funding since their interest rates can often increase significantly, spiraling deeper into debt sooner rather than later.
Even though it sounds unpleasant to think of yourself struggling financially, it can happen to anyone. It’s not the end of the world if you hit a financial bottom and need help. There’s no shame in it either, at times like these, it is vital to think positively and try to find the best solution. A good bankruptcy attorney can help you get back on your feet quickly. Consider bankruptcy a reset that allows you to take a good look at your life and spending and be more considerate in the future.