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Christopher Stanfield(32 articles)

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Split image comparing personal finances and business finances with household bills on one side and business documents on the other.

Personal vs. Business Bankruptcy: What Is the Difference?

Sep 3, 2026 | Bankruptcy, Christopher Stanfield

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes When business debt becomes difficult to manage, understanding personal vs. business bankruptcy is an important first step. The right approach may depend on whether the debt belongs to the individual, the business, or both. Business structure, personal guarantees, ownership of assets, and plans for the company can all affect which …

read more: Personal vs. Business Bankruptcy: What Is the Difference?
Steaming cup of coffee on a table at sunrise, symbolizing a fresh start after completing a Chapter 13 repayment plan.

What Happens After You Complete a Chapter 13 Repayment Plan?

Aug 24, 2026 | Bankruptcy, Christopher Stanfield

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes Making the final payment on a Chapter 13 repayment plan is an important milestone. After spending several years following a court-approved plan, it can feel as though the bankruptcy should end immediately. However, the final payment is usually followed by a closing process. The trustee and court may need to …

read more: What Happens After You Complete a Chapter 13 Repayment Plan?
A row of modern suburban houses in an HOA community with manicured lawns and white picket fences under a blue sky.

Behind on HOA Dues? What Happens When You File Bankruptcy

Aug 3, 2026 | Bankruptcy, Christopher Stanfield

If you own a home/condo with a Homeowner’s/Condo Association, the dues you have to pay each month (or quarter) don’t stop just because you’re struggling with debt. If your financial struggles lead you to file for bankruptcy, your dues could affect your case. This article explains the basics of what could happen during your bankruptcy …

read more: Behind on HOA Dues? What Happens When You File Bankruptcy
Physical Bitcoin tokens stacked on a reflective dark surface with vibrant blue and pink neon lighting.

Filing Bankruptcy with Crypto: How to Protect Your Case and Stay Compliant

Jul 27, 2026 | Bankruptcy, Christopher Stanfield

When filing for bankruptcy, you are required to list all your debts, including what you owe to creditors, as well as all your assets, which are the properties you own with real value, on the official forms. Virtual currency often escapes notice as a reportable asset, but you must report it if you own or …

read more: Filing Bankruptcy with Crypto: How to Protect Your Case and Stay Compliant
Personal Injury Settlements in Bankruptcy

Personal Injury Settlements in Bankruptcy

Jun 1, 2026 | Bankruptcy, Christopher Stanfield

If you’re considering bankruptcy and have a personal injury claim, these two parts of your life will come together. The bankruptcy court needs to see the full picture of your finances, including any money you might get from an injury case. This article will help explain why you must disclose the information to the bankruptcy …

read more: Personal Injury Settlements in Bankruptcy
Issues and Solutions in Bankruptcy for Self-Employed People, Freelancers, and Gig Workers

Issues and Solutions in Bankruptcy for Self-Employed People, Freelancers, and Gig Workers

Apr 27, 2026 | Bankruptcy, Christopher Stanfield

These days, a lot of people make a living by working for themselves, taking on contract jobs, or doing gig work such as rideshare driving, delivering goods, freelancing, or running online businesses. While this type of work offers flexibility, it can also lead to financial difficulties. Debt management becomes tough with unpredictable income, surprise expenses, …

read more: Issues and Solutions in Bankruptcy for Self-Employed People, Freelancers, and Gig Workers
Income-Driven Repayment Plans vs. Bankruptcy for Student Loans

Income-Driven Repayment Plans vs. Bankruptcy for Student Loans

Apr 6, 2026 | Bankruptcy, Christopher Stanfield

Student loans are one of the most significant financial burdens many Americans face today. For years, millions of borrowers have struggled to make payments while still covering the cost of everyday living. To help ease the financial burden, the government introduced income-driven repayment (IDR) plans. These plans adjust monthly payments based on your income. But …

read more: Income-Driven Repayment Plans vs. Bankruptcy for Student Loans
What is a Bankruptcy Audit?

What is a Bankruptcy Audit?

Mar 9, 2026 | Bankruptcy, Christopher Stanfield

Filing for bankruptcy is stressful enough without then receiving a letter that your case is being “audited”. The good news is that most bankruptcy audits are routine, and many are chosen at random. With the right preparation and legal guidance, you can get through the process smoothly and keep your case on track. What Is …

read more: What is a Bankruptcy Audit?
Creating a Chapter 13 Repayment Plan

Creating a Chapter 13 Repayment Plan

Feb 16, 2026 | Bankruptcy, Christopher Stanfield

If you’re behind on bills but have a steady income, Chapter 13 bankruptcy could help you catch up by repaying debts over time. The core of a Chapter 13 case is your repayment plan. It outlines how you will repay your debts through the Bankruptcy Court. Below, we explain how payment amounts are determined, which …

read more: Creating a Chapter 13 Repayment Plan
Does Bankruptcy Affect 529 College Savings Plans?

Does Bankruptcy Affect 529 College Savings Plans?

Jan 5, 2026 | Bankruptcy, Christopher Stanfield

If you’re dealing with debt and considering bankruptcy, you may worry about what will happen to the money you’ve saved for your child’s education. Fortunately, 529 college savings plans usually receive special protections during bankruptcy cases. This article will examine the impact of bankruptcy on 529 plans and the protections available for them. What Is …

read more: Does Bankruptcy Affect 529 College Savings Plans?