Monthly Archives: May 2025
Beyond the Homestead: What Other Property Can You Protect Under California Exemption Laws?
Financial difficulties and the possibility of bankruptcy can be incredibly stressful and overwhelming. Understanding your rights and the laws designed to help protect your assets can offer peace of mind during such challenging times. In California, the well-known homestead exemption is frequently discussed, but beyond protecting your home, several other vital exemptions exist to… Read More »
Choosing Between California’s 703 and 704 Exemption Systems: A Critical Decision in Bankruptcy
When you’re facing financial challenges severe enough to consider bankruptcy, you’re likely experiencing intense stress, uncertainty, and a desperate need for guidance. One of the pivotal decisions you’ll encounter when filing for bankruptcy in California is choosing between two distinct exemption systems—the California Code of Civil Procedure Sections 703 and 704. The selection you… Read More »
Will a Second Mortgage Prevent You From Selling Your Home?
If you’re thinking about selling your home but have a second mortgage or home equity line of credit (HELOC) still attached to the property, you may be wondering: Will this stop the sale? The short answer is no—but it will affect the process. A second mortgage, sometimes referred to as a subordinate lien, doesn’t… Read More »
Hidden Tax Deductions in Chapter 13 Bankruptcy: Don’t Leave Money on the Table
Tax season can be stressful under the best of circumstances—but if you’re in a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, it can feel even more confusing. Amid all the forms and financial records, there’s a little-known silver lining: some of your Chapter 13 plan payments may be tax-deductible. Unfortunately, many people—and even some tax professionals—overlook these potential… Read More »
Second Mortgage vs. Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC): How Each Is Treated in Bankruptcy
If you’ve borrowed against your home—whether through a second mortgage or a home equity line of credit (HELOC)—you may be feeling added financial pressure as debts pile up. For many California homeowners struggling to stay current, the threat of foreclosure or lawsuits can become very real, especially if the value of the home has… Read More »