When you’re considering bankruptcy, a spousal relationship can affect everything. Married couples don’t always agree on financial issues; but often their finances are also intertwined, for better or worse.
If you think bankruptcy might be a good option for you or your household, but your spouse isn’t supportive of it, you have a few options. Here are some things to keep in mind:
First, always be open and honest with your spouse about your financial situation.
Sometimes married couples don’t even know about each other’s debt problems, let alone their ideas for getting out of debt. Bankruptcy and other financial solutions aren’t always easy, and it will only help you in the long run to have strong communication throughout.
Remember you don’t always have to file jointly.
There are a lot of myths about how filing bankruptcy may or may not affect your spouse. We have a lot of experience in this area, so if it’s something that concerns you we can look at your situation and discuss it with you, no strings attached.
Spouses have to work together for long-term solutions.
Sometimes we hear the question “Does my spouse have to know if I file bankruptcy?” We answer that question here, but in general it concerns us for that client’s long-term financial health. When both spouses are actively involved in curing their household’s debt, solutions can be much easier and ultimately more successful.
We know getting out of debt can feel overwhelming and tricky, especially for married couples who don’t always agree on the best course of action. Our bankruptcy attorneys are happy to talk with either or both of you about your concerns, so contact us online or give us a call at 901-327-2100 to discuss your situation for free.
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(Photo by Michal Zacharzewski)