MEDICAL BILLS
AND JOB LOSS

What can I do?

        Despite the apparent beliefs held by some in Congress (and many creditors), the VAST majority of people filing for bankruptcy are simple working people who have encountered hard times. Many times, these hard times are brought about by unanticipated medical needs and job loss. In today’s world, where the big issues in our political campaigns reflect ongoing problems with health insurance and medical care and a looming economic crisis, this should not be unexpected. These unexpected turn-of-events are an unavoidable part of a capitalist market system and are precisely what consumer bankruptcy laws were designed to protect.

        One purpose of our bankruptcy laws is to recognize that when medical and employment emergencies arise, we should be able to turn our attention toward rectifying those emergencies without wasting precious time worrying about financial matters that are outside of our control. The safety net provided by bankruptcy should allow you to turn your undivided attention toward resolving the medical problem and obtaining new employment … not explaining to creditors why you are not authorized to pay them with money that you have recently printed in your basement or harvested off money trees. Get the medical care you need. Take the time to get the education and the job you need to start again.

         Remember, however, that a bankruptcy case can often be postponed for reasonable periods of time before creditors can inflict further harm and indignity on you. (See the article on our website regarding “Collections”). A good bankruptcy professional will understand the importance of both planning and timing. In the case of severe medical emergencies, you may find that you will be unable to work again. In this case, and if possible, take the time to get yourself both medically and financially stable again before filing your bankruptcy. Likewise, if you are without a job, take the time to get appropriate education, make helpful career changes, and make a considered effort to search for new employment. The bankruptcy case can often wait. There is nothing as sad as seeing a person file bankruptcy when it is clear that additional bills and expenses will soon be piling up and simply leading to future economic nightmares.

          If you find yourself suffering catastrophic medical problems or job loss, it would be wise to seek out good bankruptcy counsel early on. Expert counsel should put the particular circumstances of your case above any desire to quickly “file another case.” Over time, not only can your case be properly planned and timed, not only will you have an opportunity to get used to living with the realities of your situation, but you will also have more time to gather together the necessary fees and costs. Proper timing will also help alleviate your stress and allow you to give proper attention to the medical or employment issues that need to be addressed. While immediate financial issues such as repossessions, garnishments and foreclosures may warrant an immediate or speedy filing of your case, in most situations time can be your friend. Only experienced (and professional) bankruptcy counsel can analyze your particular situation and explain to you the best strategy to follow.

NOTE:  Henze & Associates, P.C. is a debt relief agency that helps people file for bankruptcy protection under the Federal Bankruptcy Code.

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