Definition
Voluntary bankruptcy is a type of bankruptcy proceeding initiated by an individual or business who recognizes their inability to repay outstanding debts. By voluntarily filing, the debtor seeks protection and relief from creditors under the federal bankruptcy laws. This is in contrast to involuntary bankruptcy, where creditors initiate the bankruptcy proceedings to recover unpaid debts.
Phonetic
The phonetic pronunciation of “Voluntary Bankruptcy” is: vɑːˈlʌnˌteri bæŋkˈrʌptsi.
Key Takeaways
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- Voluntary Bankruptcy Initiation: Unlike involuntary bankruptcy, voluntary bankruptcy is initiated by the debtor themselves. It usually happens when they realize their debts are beyond their current financial ability to pay. They will then file a petition to the bankruptcy court, which will inspect their financial situation and determine the best course of action.
- Ease of Financial Pressure: One of the main advantages of filing for voluntary bankruptcy is that it helps to alleviate significant financial pressure. When the bankruptcy proceedings begin, there is an automatic temporary stay against all collection actions. This stay is in place until the case is resolved or unless the stay is lifted by the court. Hence, it can provide a debtor immediate relief from harassing creditors.
- Impact on Credit Score: While voluntary bankruptcy will ease financial pressure by discharging certain debts, it is also critical to remember that it will significantly impact a debtor’s credit score for several years. It could make it harder to secure loans or credit in the future, affecting their buying power. Therefore, it’s important to consider all options and implications before filing for voluntary bankruptcy.
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Importance
Voluntary bankruptcy is significant in the business/finance field because it allows businesses or individuals, who are unable to repay their debts, to consciously choose to file for bankruptcy. This process offers a potential relief from overwhelming debt, albeit with significant consequences. Its importance is also tied to how it impacts creditors and the overall marketplace. It renders creditors having to stop all attempts to collect debts under an automatic stay. Also, by businesses declaring bankruptcy, economies can keep industries moving by eliminating the zombie companies and allowing for more innovation and competition. However, it also implies severe implications such as assets liquidation, damaging credit reports, and potential future lending challenges for the filing entity. Understanding voluntary bankruptcy is fundamental in making informed and strategic financial decisions.
Explanation
Voluntary bankruptcy, as the term suggests, is an action initiated by an individual or a business entity to legally declare their inability to pay off their debts. Its primary purpose is to provide a systemic way for the indebted party to manage and, if possible, to resolve their insolvency issues while receiving protection from further debt collection activities by the creditors.The process works by the debtor filing a petition in a bankruptcy court. This may further involve the liquidation of their assets – if it is a Chapter 7 filing – or initiating a debt reorganization plan – if it’s under Chapter 11 or Chapter 13. The goal here isn’t to evade debts but rather to navigate through financial distress in an orderly manner. Emphasizing the prevention of an uncontrollable debt spiral, it effectively helps alleviate the burden on the debtor, and at the same time, it provides a potential path for creditors to recover some of the owed amounts.
Examples
1. Enron: One of the most prominent cases of voluntary bankruptcy occurred in 2001 with the energy company, Enron. Overwhelmed by tremendous debt and a series of financial scandals, Enron filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. This allowed the company to clear most of its debt, reorganize its business processes, and liquidate assets under court supervision in an attempt to become solvent again.2. GM (General Motors): In 2009, the automotive giant, General Motors, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy due to the financial crisis and declining car sales. The company faced a significant financial decline which led to it voluntarily filing for bankruptcy protection. GM used this opportunity to restructure its operations, shutting down many of its older plants and focusing more on innovative and fuel-efficient vehicles.3. American Airlines: It’s not uncommon for airlines to file for voluntary bankruptcy due to tough competition and volatile fuel prices. American Airlines filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2011, despite not being insolvent. The company chose voluntary bankruptcy to reduce its labor costs and negotiate a better contract with their employees. After the bankruptcy proceeding, the company came out stronger and more competitive.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)
What is a Voluntary Bankruptcy?
Voluntary Bankruptcy is a type of bankruptcy proceeding initiated by an individual or business who is unable to pay their debts, rather than by their creditors. This is typically done as a proactive measure to address deteriorating financial conditions.2.
What is the purpose of filing a Voluntary Bankruptcy?
The purpose of filing a voluntary bankruptcy is to help individuals or businesses resolve their financial crisis, restructure their debts, and start afresh. It also temporarily stops all debt collection actions like lawsuits, foreclosures, etc.3.
What are the different types of Voluntary Bankruptcy?
For individuals, the most common types of voluntary bankruptcy in the United States are Chapter 7 (liquidation) and Chapter 13 (reorganization). For businesses, it’s typically Chapter 7 and Chapter 11 (reorganization).4.
Does filing for Voluntary Bankruptcy affect my credit rating?
Yes, filing for bankruptcy can have a long-term negative impact on your credit history and score. A bankruptcy can remain on your credit report for up to 10 years.5.
Can all debts be discharged in a Voluntary Bankruptcy?
No, not all debts can be discharged in a bankruptcy. Generally, student loans, taxes, child support, and court-ordered fines can’t be eliminated.6.
How often can a person or business file for Voluntary Bankruptcy?
In the U.S, there isn’t a specified limit, but there are time restrictions between filings. For instance, you can file for Chapter 7 again after 8 years from your last filing, and Chapter 13 can be filed again after two years.7.
What happens to my assets when I file for Voluntary Bankruptcy?
The outcomes depend on the bankruptcy chapter you file. In Chapter 7, your non-exempt property may be sold to repay creditors, and in Chapter 13 or 11, you’re allowed to keep your assets and repay debts over time under a repayment plan.8.
Will I automatically qualify for a Voluntary Bankruptcy filing?
Not necessarily. You’d typically need to pass the means test to qualify for Chapter 7 and have a regular income for Chapter 13. For businesses considering Chapter 11, they must be able to show likelihood of post-bankruptcy profitability. 9.
Do I need a lawyer to file Voluntary Bankruptcy?
While it is possible to file for bankruptcy on your own, it’s highly recommended to seek legal counsel due to the bankruptcy’s complexity and the potential for mistakes during filing.10.
What are the alternatives to voluntary bankruptcy?
Alternatives can include debt consolidation, negotiation with your creditors, selling assets to pay off debts, or working out an informal payment plan with your creditors. Remember, this FAQ should only serve as a general guide and for specific questions related to bankruptcy, you should seek professional legal advice.
Related Finance Terms
- Debtor
- Creditors
- Bankruptcy trustee
- Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
- Chapter 11 Bankruptcy
Sources for More Information