Gina

“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.