Gina wrote to me through the GetOutOfDebt.org site and asked the following question. If you have a credit or debt question you’d like to ask just use the online form. I’m happy to help you totally for free.
Income from the GetOutOfDebt.org site advertising is used to help alleviate poverty. If you would like to help me to help others, there are easy and free things you can do, click here to learn how you can help.
“Dear Steve,
Chase places a judgement against me for $3,700 for a credit card. I was going to include this in my bk. They got to me before I could file and put a legal hold against 3 bank accounts (joint checking, joint savings, personal checking). The hold was for $7,500 per account for a total of negative $22,500.
I had about $1,400 between the three accounts (this was from a hardship withdrawl I took from my 401k to pay my mortgage). I also had a pay check direct deposited 2 days later — which I can not access.
I live in IL. How are they allowed to hold all of my 401k withdrawal and my entire paycheck? Is there any way to get this money back?
I’ve changed my mind quickly and will be filing a 13. However, I don’t even have the $450 the lawyer needs for fees b/c they are holding all of my money.
Gina”
The Answer:
Dear Gina,
I think you need to discuss the situation with the bankruptcy attorney you have selected. They may be able to help.
I’ll ask a bankruptcy attorney friend to comment to give us some insight. I don’t know if the stay from bankruptcy will release the money held.