COVID-19 Update: In order to best serve our clients, our office remains open for business.
To protect your safety in response to COVID-19, we are offering our clients the option to meet with us, via telephone or in-person, based on the client’s choice. Please call our office to discuss your options.

How investment accounts are treated in bankruptcy

On Behalf of | Jul 31, 2017 | Chapter 13 Bankruptcy |

There are many issues that Ohio residents may need to be aware of when it comes to how filing bankruptcy may impact their finances. The good news for those with a 401(k) or an IRA is that money inside of those accounts are often off-limits to creditors. The only exception is that the IRS may levy those funds if there are back taxes owed.

However, even in a situation where a person owes back taxes, money inside of an account won’t be levied until an individual actually receives it. It is important to note that the IRS could impose penalties on the past due balance until it is paid, which could significantly increase the amount owed.

In most cases, funds within a profit sharing or employee stock option account are not exempt from creditors unless they qualify under ERISA. On the other hand, 529 savings plans are exempt under Ohio law (this, of course, should not be abused).

Those who are seeking help keeping up with their bills may find it beneficial to file for bankruptcy. This may make it possible to have debts discharged or reorganized. Most debts such as credit card balances, mortgages or auto loans can be handled in a bankruptcy proceeding. An attorney may be able to talk more about the benefits of filing for bankruptcy such as an automatic stay of collection activities.

Archives

FindLaw Network

*We Accept Debit/Credit Cards

MAKE PAYMENT | VISA MASTERCARD DISCOVER AMERICA EXPRESS | LAWPAY