Jumping the gun on year end by a bit, I’ve gathered up the 10 most-read posts on Bankruptcy Soapbox in 2015.
Without need of an envelop, please, here they are, in reverse order:
10. Debtor Bites Collector Over Stale Debt
Continuing a collection action after learning the debt was beyond the statute of limitations cost the creditor’s lawfirm over $300,000 in damages under the FDCPA. One for rationality!
9. When Bankruptcy Doesn’t Stop Collectors
What to do when collectors and debt buyers continue to harass you on debts discharged in bankruptcy. It’s against the law, judges don’t like it, but you have to let the court know to get relief.
8. What’s So Scary About Bankruptcy
The fears about life after bankruptcy examined. Genetically, we fear the unknown. So let’s confront those fears that make crushing debt more palatable than bankruptcy.
7. 6 Things To Know About California Homesteads
The homestead is the super hero of exemptions. We penetrate the mystery around homesteads. They don’t necessarily insure you keep your house.
6. Principles of California Community property
What you need to know about community property if you live, love, or collect debts in California. Community property doesn’t mean what you probably think it does.
5. Are You Liable For Your Spouse’s Debts?
California community property is liable for the debts of both spouses, whenever incurred. But does that make you personally liable for the bills your mate incurs?
4. 5 Ways To Avoid HOA Fees After Bankruptcy
A bankruptcy discharge doesn’t relieve you of liability for HOA fees that come due after the bankruptcy is filed. We look at five strategies, other than changing a bad law, to escape that liability.
3. Calculating Insolvency To Avoid Tax On Forgiven Debt
Make a deal on a debt, or have your mortgage lender forgive some part of your loan, and you face the tax on cancelled debt. Here’s how to figure if the insolvency exception will keep the tax collector from your door.
2. Overlooked Tax Deductions Lurk In Chapter 13
The debts you pay through your Chapter 13 plan may represent income tax deductions that will reduce this year’s taxes. Check out the list of likely deductions you haven’t considered.
1. Avoid Taxes On 1099’s And Stay Within The Law
The bane of our existence: the 1099 that tells the IRS that a debt was cancelled. But it’s often wrong, and even more often, not really taxable, if you know the rules.
Next time, I’m going to feature my favorite new posts from 2015.
In the meantime, take care of your money and make 2016 a better year.
