What Happens if You Get Married While in Bankruptcy?

If you have already filed for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, it’s a good idea to discuss any major life changes with your bankruptcy attorney. Getting married while in bankruptcy won’t always affect the proceedings, but there is a possibility that things will change. If you’re working your way through a Chapter 13 repayment plan, it’s especially important to determine if the new household dynamics will affect your obligations.

Your Chapter 13 repayment plan is based on your household income and expenses. If your new spouse brings in an income, then this may increase the amount of your monthly payments to the bankruptcy trustee. On the other hand, getting married may increase your expenses. Perhaps your new spouse has some children from prior relationships or maybe a new baby is already on the way. In either event, higher household expenses can decrease your monthly trustee payment. Your bankruptcy attorney may need to file a petition for modification with the court.

You can bring your questions about bankruptcy law to your consultation with a bankruptcy attorney in Hoffman Estates.