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afford to file bankruptcy

I’m in My 70s, Judgment-Proof, and Ready to File Bankruptcy — I Just Can’t Afford the Lawyer Yet. Here’s My Plan.

by Steve Rhode

Judgment-proof and on Social Security but ready to file Chapter 7? Here’s how to survive until your next deposit, lower the $338 filing fee, and avoid the loan trap before you file.

Can I File Bankruptcy If My Income Is Irregular? What Gig Workers and the Self-Employed Need to Know About Their Retirement

by Steve Rhode

Yes, you can file bankruptcy with irregular gig or self-employed income — the means test uses a 6-month average. And your 401(k) and IRA are protected.

They Said You Lose Everything You Own in Bankruptcy. Here’s What the Law Actually Protects.

by Steve Rhode

They said bankruptcy takes everything you own. It’s a myth: federal exemptions protect your home, car, and retirement. Here’s what the law actually shields.

I Cosigned a Loan and They Stopped Paying. Here’s What to Do Right Now.

by Steve Rhode

Cosigned a loan and the borrower stopped paying? You’re 100% liable — but you have real options. Here’s exactly what to do right now.

My Ex Isn’t Paying Our Joint Debt and Collectors Are Coming After Me. Here’s What to Do Right Now.

by Steve Rhode

Your divorce decree split your debts, but a creditor isn’t bound by it. If your ex stopped paying a joint debt, here’s how to protect your credit and fight back.

A Tribal Payday Lender Says I Owe Them Money. Here’s What to Do Right Now.

by Steve Rhode

A tribal payday lender is threatening you — but their claim to be above the law is often false. Federal protections still apply. Here’s how to stop the debits, challenge the debt, and use bankruptcy if needed.

Sleep Number Files Chapter 11. On The Border Closes All Restaurants. Same Day.

by Steve Rhode

Sleep Number filed Chapter 11 and On The Border closed all 33 restaurants — on the same day. Here’s what it means for your warranty, gift cards, and smart bed.

Should I Max Out My Credit Cards Before Filing Bankruptcy?

by Steve Rhode

Should you max out your credit cards before filing bankruptcy? No — and here’s the trap most sites won’t warn you about, plus how to protect your discharge.

Can Bankruptcy Erase Tax Debt? Yes — Here’s Exactly When It Can

by Steve Rhode

Can bankruptcy erase IRS tax debt? Yes — older income taxes can be discharged if they pass three timing rules. Here’s exactly how it works, from someone who’s helped thousands.

The IRS Says I Owe Back Taxes. Here’s What to Do Right Now.

by Steve Rhode

Got an IRS notice for back taxes? Here’s exactly what to do right now — your deadlines, payment plan options, and the bankruptcy rule most sites won’t tell you about.

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Get Out of Debt Guy Podcast - Steve Rhode

Get Out of Debt Guy Podcasts

  • Credit Card Debt, Hospital Bills & the “Just Get a Loan” Trap
  • Look Broke for a Year or Stay Broke for 10? The Credit Card Debt Trap
  • Budgets Suck: Debt Traps, Emergency Savings, and Keeping Up Appearances
  • Are You Helping Your Kids—or Hurting Your Retirement? – The Money Choices That Cost Millions
  • Should Adult Kids Pay Rent—or Are You Sacrificing Your Retirement?

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Think of this as me — just in AI form. I've walked in your shoes. I filed bankruptcy myself in 1990, and in over 30 years of experience I haven't seen a situation that can't be worked through or a person who deserves judgment. Everything here is built on that experience, that research, and genuine care for you. I can't be there in person. But I can be here.

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