Filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy protection without health insurance is risky. While medical debt incurred prior to filing for bankruptcy is dischargeable, medical debt incurred after the bankruptcy petition is filed is not. Put another way, if you get sick after you file for bankruptcy, the resulting medical bill is not included in the bankruptcy. If you have health insurance, you’re probably covered. That’s important. Otherwise, you may be going down.
Why is getting sick after bankruptcy so dangerous? Because the bankruptcy option is not available to save you if you are unable to pay the bill. Law forbids a person who receives the benefit of a Chapter 7 bankruptcy discharge from filing another Chapter 7 bankruptcy petition for 8 years. During these 8 years, debt collectors and creditors are free to make your life miserable. While some laws do protect debtors from extreme harassment from debt collectors, medical debt collectors and medical debt creditors have adequate tools at their disposal to make you wish you could pay up.
Remember, maintaining health insurance for yourself and your family is a top priority. If you do not currently have health insurance and are having trouble paying your bills, we may be able to help you. Options are available. Call (203) 653-5133 today for your free consultation.
