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Do You Have Debt From Government Benefit Overpayments?
It's a common scenario: You receive Social Security, Unemployment or another government benefit — it's money you need and you spend it. Later, you receive a notice that you were, in fact, not entitled to that money, and you owe the government the amount you were overpaid.
For many people already facing financial hardship, it may be impossible to pay that money back. If you find yourself in this situation, the attorneys at Ledford & Wu can help you explore your options, including bankruptcy. We are experienced lawyers dedicated to helping you achieve your debt relief goals.
Is filing bankruptcy right for you? Contact a Chicago bankruptcy attorney by e-mail or call 888-542-1900 for a free consultation at any of our ten office locations. We can help you eliminate your debt.
Experienced Bankruptcy Lawyers
The good news about government benefit overpayment debt is that it generally can be discharged in bankruptcy. The main exception would be if there was fraud or intentional deceit involved.
Otherwise, as long as you qualify for bankruptcy, debts can be discharged from overpayments from the following government benefits:
- Social Security Disability insurance
- Supplemental security income
- Unemployment insurance
It is important to remember that the program you receive assistance from may be able to recoup the overpayment from your ongoing benefit checks, so filing sooner is usually most beneficial.
Filing for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy will stop them from garnishing your wages, freezing your bank account and taking other creditor actions against you. Bankruptcy can also help you discharge or mange your other debts so that your financial burden is lessened significantly.
Contact Us
Contact our offices online or call 888-542-1900 to find out if filing for bankruptcy is right for you. Our experienced Illinois bankruptcy lawyers are ready to help.
