Don't let errors on your Credit Report hurt your future opportunities. Learn More

Home / Negative Items / What's a Wage Earner Plan in Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

What's a Wage Earner Plan in Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

  • Chapter 13 bankruptcy helps you reorganize debts over 3-5 years if you have regular income.
  • It combines debts into one payment, stops foreclosures, and can reduce some debts.
  • Need help? Call The Credit Pros for a free chat about your credit and bankruptcy options.

Pull your 3-bureau report and see how you can identify and remove errors on your report.

Get Help From a Credit Expert

89 people started their credit fight today - join them!

BBB A+ rating credit repair company

Related content: What Is a Chapter 13 Trustee and What Do They Investigate

A Chapter 13 wage earner plan lets you reorganize your debts over 3-5 years if you have regular income. You keep your assets while catching up on missed payments under court supervision.

This plan rolls your debts into one monthly payment, which a trustee gives to your creditors. It stops foreclosures, halts collections, and can cut some unsecured debts. You'll need steady income and debts under certain limits to qualify.

Money troubles can be tough. The Credit Pros can help you figure things out. Give us a ring for a free chat. We'll look at your credit report and help you decide if Chapter 13 is right for you or if other options might work better. No pressure, just straight talk about your situation.

On This Page:

    What Is A Chapter 13 Wage Earner Plan

    A Chapter 13 wage earner plan helps you reorganize your debts if you have regular income. You create a 3-5 year repayment plan to catch up on missed payments while keeping your assets. Here's how it works:

    You propose a plan to pay all or part of your debts over 3-5 years. A court-appointed trustee collects your monthly payments and distributes them to creditors. Once you file, creditors must stop collection efforts. You can save your home from foreclosure by catching up on mortgage payments. After completing the plan, unsecured debts may be partially discharged.

    Benefits you'll enjoy include:
    • Keeping your property
    • Consolidating debts into one payment
    • Potential partial debt forgiveness
    • Protection from creditors

    However, you should be aware of these drawbacks:
    • Living on a tight budget for years
    • Only 40% of filers complete their plans successfully
    • Long-term credit score impacts

    To qualify, your unsecured debts must be under $419,275 and secured debts under $1,257,850. You'll need to prove you can feasibly complete the proposed plan. We strongly advise you to consult a bankruptcy attorney to determine if Chapter 13 aligns with your financial goals and to help you navigate the complex process.

    At the end of the day, a Chapter 13 wage earner plan can be a lifeline if you're struggling with debt, but it's crucial that you understand the commitment and seek professional guidance before diving in.

    How Does A Chapter 13 Plan Work

    A Chapter 13 plan helps you reorganize your debts if you have a steady income. You propose a 3-5 year repayment schedule to the court within 14 days of filing. This plan uses your disposable income to pay creditors monthly through a trustee, prioritizing certain debts while potentially reducing others.

    Here's how a Chapter 13 plan works for you:

    • You maintain eligibility with regular income and within debt limits
    • You keep your property while repaying debts
    • You benefit from an automatic stay, halting collections and foreclosure
    • You consolidate debts into one monthly payment to the trustee
    • You may have some remaining debts forgiven upon completion

    When you file for Chapter 13, you gain several advantages:

    • You retain your assets
    • You improve your credit post-bankruptcy
    • You consolidate your debts into manageable payments

    However, you'll face some challenges:

    • You must strictly adhere to a budget
    • You'll have limited disposable income during repayment
    • Your success depends on following the court-approved plan

    To succeed with your Chapter 13 plan, you need to make timely payments and live frugally. While it's challenging, this plan offers you a path to financial recovery without liquidating your assets. You get breathing room to catch up on payments and potentially save your home from foreclosure.

    Lastly, remember that while a Chapter 13 plan requires discipline and commitment, it provides you with a structured way to regain control of your finances and move towards a debt-free future.

    Who Qualifies For A Chapter 13 Plan

    You qualify for a Chapter 13 plan if you're an individual with regular income and manageable debt levels. Your unsecured debts must be under $465,275, and secured debts below $1,395,875. This option suits you if you have steady earnings and can partially repay creditors over 3-5 years while keeping your assets.

    To be eligible, you need to:
    • Complete credit counseling within 180 days before filing
    • Have no bankruptcy dismissals in the last 180 days due to court no-shows or non-compliance
    • Possess sufficient income to make plan payments

    Chapter 13 appeals if you want to:
    • Save your home from foreclosure
    • Reschedule secured debts
    • Protect co-signers on consumer debts

    We understand you're facing financial challenges. This plan offers you a fresh start without liquidating all your assets. It allows you to develop a structured repayment strategy, typically lasting 3-5 years. During this time, creditors can't pursue collection efforts against you.

    You'll work with a trustee who distributes your payments to creditors. This setup helps you regain control of your finances and move towards a debt-free future. Remember, Chapter 13 will impact your credit, so you should weigh your options carefully. We're here to guide you through this process and help you make the best decision for your financial well-being.

    Finally, if you're an individual with regular income and manageable debt levels, you may qualify for a Chapter 13 plan. We encourage you to consider this option if you're looking to restructure your debts while keeping your assets. Don't hesitate to reach out for guidance – we're here to support you every step of the way.

    What Debts Are Included In A Wage Earner Plan

    A wage earner plan in Chapter 13 bankruptcy includes various types of debts you need to address. You'll find unsecured debts like credit cards and medical bills, secured debts such as mortgages and car loans, and priority debts including recent taxes and child support arrears.

    When you opt for this plan, you can reorganize and partially repay your debts over 3-5 years while protecting your assets. You'll make monthly payments to a trustee, who then distributes the funds to your creditors. The duration of your plan depends on how your income compares to your state's median.

    You'll enjoy several benefits with a wage earner plan:

    • It halts creditor actions against you
    • It prevents foreclosure or repossession of your property
    • It creates a manageable repayment structure for you

    We understand that dealing with debt can be overwhelming for you. You should speak with a bankruptcy lawyer to explore if Chapter 13 is the right choice for your situation. They can help you determine your eligibility, understand how the plan works, and assess its impact on your debts and long-term finances.

    Big picture: You have options to manage your debts through a wage earner plan, but it's crucial that you seek professional advice to make the best decision for your financial future.

    Inaccuracies hurting your Credit Score?
    Securely review your full 3-bureau Credit Report (with a real expert).

    By clicking ‘Get Started’ I agree by electronic signature to: (1) be contacted by The Credit Pros by a live agent, artificial or prerecorded voice, and SMS text at my residential or cellular number, dialed manually or by autodialer even if my phone number is on a do-not-call registry (consent to be contacted is not a condition to purchase services); and (2) the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

    How Long Does A Chapter 13 Plan Last

    A Chapter 13 bankruptcy plan typically lasts 3 to 5 years. You'll pay for 3 years if your income is below your state's median, or 5 years if it's above. Here's what you need to know about the duration of your Chapter 13 plan:

    Your plan length depends on several factors:

    • Your income compared to your state's median
    • The amount of debt you need to repay
    • Your ability to pay priority debts like mortgages or taxes

    You must start your payments within 30 days of filing and continue making them monthly. While it's possible to complete your plan early if you pay all required debts sooner, most people need the full term due to financial constraints.

    The factors that affect your plan duration include your disposable income, total debt amount, and priority debt obligations. Understanding the length of your plan helps you assess if Chapter 13 bankruptcy fits your financial goals and ability to sustain payments long-term. It will impact your budgeting, career choices, and life planning during the bankruptcy period.

    We recommend that you consult a bankruptcy attorney to evaluate your specific situation. They can help you determine the best plan length based on your income, debts, and objectives.

    It's crucial that you stick to your plan. If you miss payments, you risk case dismissal or conversion to Chapter 7 bankruptcy. We're here to help you navigate this process and find the best solution for your financial situation.

    Overall, you should carefully consider your ability to commit to a 3 to 5-year payment plan before deciding on Chapter 13 bankruptcy. We understand it's a big decision, and we're here to support you every step of the way.

    Can A Wage Earner Plan Stop Foreclosure

    Yes, a wage earner plan (Chapter 13 bankruptcy) can effectively stop foreclosure. When you file, you immediately benefit from an automatic stay that halts all collection efforts, including foreclosure proceedings. This gives you valuable breathing room to reorganize your finances.

    With Chapter 13, you have the opportunity to catch up on your mortgage arrears over 3-5 years while maintaining current payments. You'll propose a feasible repayment plan to the court, consolidating your debts into manageable monthly payments based on your income.

    Here are key benefits you'll gain as a homeowner:

    • You immediately stop foreclosure upon filing
    • You get time to cure mortgage delinquencies
    • You can keep your home while reorganizing debts
    • You may reduce unsecured debts

    To qualify, you need regular income and must complete credit counseling. We strongly advise you to work with an experienced bankruptcy attorney to navigate the process and maximize your chances of plan approval. If you successfully complete your court-approved plan, you can achieve debt discharge, keep your home, and emerge with improved financial footing.

    Remember, Chapter 13 requires your commitment to the repayment plan. You'll need to make all required payments to maintain protection from foreclosure. However, for many struggling homeowners like you, it offers a viable path to save your property and regain financial stability.

    As a final point, we want you to know that while the process may seem daunting, you have options. By exploring Chapter 13, you're taking a proactive step towards securing your home and your financial future.

    What Are The Benefits Of A Chapter 13 Plan

    When you file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you gain several key benefits to help manage your debt:

    You get to keep your valuable assets like your home and car while repaying debts. This plan allows you to consolidate multiple debts into one manageable monthly payment, often with lower payments stretched over 3-5 years. You can stop foreclosure proceedings and catch up on missed mortgage payments, protecting your home.

    By following a structured repayment plan, you show financial responsibility, potentially improving your credit over time. The plan is flexible, allowing adjustments if your financial situation changes. At the end of your plan, some of your unsecured debts may be partially forgiven.

    Chapter 13 provides legal protection, stopping creditor harassment and collection efforts. You have multiple filing options, unlike Chapter 7's restrictions. It also shields co-signers from collection attempts on shared debts.

    • You protect your assets while repaying debts
    • You consolidate debts into one manageable payment
    • You stop foreclosure and catch up on mortgage payments

    Remember, Chapter 13 requires steady income and commitment to a long-term repayment plan. We recommend you weigh these advantages against potential challenges like the extended repayment period and impact on credit. To put it simply, if you have a steady income and want to keep your assets while managing your debt, Chapter 13 might be your best option. We advise you to consult a bankruptcy attorney to determine if it suits your specific financial situation.

    How Does A Wage Earner Plan Differ From Chapter 7

    A wage earner plan (Chapter 13 bankruptcy) differs significantly from Chapter 7 bankruptcy. In Chapter 13, you keep your property while repaying debts over 3-5 years. With Chapter 7, you might lose non-exempt assets to pay creditors. Chapter 13 suits you if you have regular income and can afford payments, while Chapter 7 is better if you have limited income and few assets.

    Here are the key differences between a wage earner plan and Chapter 7:

    • Debt handling: You restructure debts in Chapter 13; Chapter 7 liquidates assets to discharge debts
    • Property retention: You keep assets in Chapter 13; you may lose some in Chapter 7
    • Repayment duration: You repay over 3-5 years in Chapter 13; Chapter 7 offers quicker discharge
    • Foreclosure protection: Chapter 13 can stop foreclosure; Chapter 7 typically can't
    • Eligibility: Chapter 13 has debt limits; Chapter 7 uses means testing
    • Co-signer protection: Chapter 13 may shield your co-signers; Chapter 7 doesn't

    We recommend Chapter 13 if you have regular income and want to keep your property. It's especially helpful if you're trying to save your home from foreclosure. However, Chapter 7 might be better if you have low income and few assets to protect.

    In short, you should choose Chapter 13 if you can afford regular payments and want to keep your assets, while Chapter 7 is better if you need a fresh start and have little to protect. We're here to help you make the best decision for your financial future.

    Inaccuracies hurting your Credit Score?
    Securely review your full 3-bureau Credit Report (with a real expert).

    By clicking ‘Get Started’ I agree by electronic signature to: (1) be contacted by The Credit Pros by a live agent, artificial or prerecorded voice, and SMS text at my residential or cellular number, dialed manually or by autodialer even if my phone number is on a do-not-call registry (consent to be contacted is not a condition to purchase services); and (2) the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

    What Happens To Assets In A Chapter 13 Plan

    In a Chapter 13 plan, you keep your assets. Unlike Chapter 7, there's no liquidation. You repay debts over 3-5 years while retaining your property. Here's what happens to your assets:

    • You keep your home safe from foreclosure if you catch up on mortgage payments
    • You continue to make car payments through the plan, allowing you to keep your vehicle
    • Your personal belongings remain in your possession

    The plan requires you to use your disposable income to pay creditors. The value of your non-exempt assets impacts how much you need to repay. For example, if you have $50,000 in non-exempt home equity, you'd need to pay at least that amount to creditors over the plan period.

    New assets you acquire during the plan may affect your payments:

    • If you receive an inheritance within 180 days of filing, it becomes part of the estate
    • You must disclose any lawsuit settlements, which may increase your payments
    • Lottery winnings get factored into your repayment plan

    Your retirement accounts are typically protected, but any withdrawals you make become non-exempt income. Overall, Chapter 13 lets you reorganize your debts while safeguarding your property, as long as you stick to the court-approved plan.

    To wrap things up, remember that in a Chapter 13 plan, you get to keep your assets while working towards debt repayment. This approach offers you a path to financial stability without losing your valuable possessions.

    How Are Creditors Paid In A Wage Earner Plan

    In a wage earner plan, you make regular monthly payments to a court-appointed trustee over 3-5 years. The trustee then distributes these funds to your creditors based on the court-approved repayment plan. This process helps you consolidate your debts into one manageable payment.

    Your plan prioritizes certain debts:
    • You'll pay secured debts (like mortgages and car loans) first
    • Next, you'll address priority debts (such as taxes and child support)
    • Finally, you'll tackle unsecured debts (credit cards, medical bills)

    We understand this can feel overwhelming, but here's how it helps you:
    • You can stop foreclosures and repossessions
    • You'll halt collection calls and lawsuits
    • You get to catch up on missed payments
    • You may even reduce some debt amounts

    The amount you pay depends on your income, expenses, and types of debt. You'll work with your attorney to create a feasible plan. Once it's approved, you need to stick to it religiously. Make every payment on time. If you do, you may have remaining qualifying debts discharged when you complete the plan.

    Remember, this option works best if you have steady income. It gives you breathing room to reorganize your finances while protecting your valuable assets. We're here to guide you through each step of this process.

    In essence, you're consolidating your debts through a court-approved plan, making regular payments to a trustee who then pays your creditors. This approach can help you get back on track financially while protecting your assets.

    Can Self-Employed Individuals Use A Chapter 13 Plan

    Yes, you can use a Chapter 13 plan if you're self-employed. You're eligible if you have regular income and meet debt limits. To file, you'll need to:

    • Prove your consistent earnings through income statements and tax returns
    • Submit a feasible 3-5 year repayment plan for court approval
    • Provide extra documentation like your business financials and expense records
    • Show you can cover your living costs and debt payments

    Chapter 13 lets you keep your assets while you reorganize your debts. But you must put your disposable income toward payments, which may limit your business operations.

    You'll benefit from:
    • Protection from foreclosure and repossession
    • The ability to reschedule your secured debts
    • Potential reduction in your overall debt burden

    We recommend you work with an experienced bankruptcy lawyer. They'll help you prepare your documentation and create a viable repayment plan tailored to your situation.

    Remember, filing Chapter 13 is a serious decision. You should explore all your options before proceeding. To wrap up, with careful planning, Chapter 13 can offer you a path to debt relief while allowing you to continue running your business.

    Privacy and Cookies
    We use cookies on our website. Your interactions and personal data may be collected on our websites by us and our partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions