Debt Archives - Rubin & Associates - Dallas Bankruptcy Lawyers

What is the means test?

If you are struggling with debt and considering filing for bankruptcy, one of the first things you will likely hear about is the “means test.” This test plays a central role in determining your eligibility for filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy. It was introduced as part of the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005, and it was designed to ensure that individuals who have the ability to repay their debts do not simply walk away from their financial obligations through Chapter 7.

Understanding what the means test is, how it works, and what it determines is essential for anyone considering bankruptcy. Since this is a common question we hear from most clients, we will break down the key aspects of the means test and explain why it is important. (more…)

By Mark Rubin|2025-07-28T14:05:24-05:00July 28th, 2025|Bankruptcy, Debt, Texas Bankruptcy|

How long does a bankruptcy case last?

If you are struggling with debt and considering bankruptcy, one of the most common and important questions is: “How long does the bankruptcy process actually take?” Whether you are dealing with credit card debt, medical bills, personal loans, or the loss of a job, the length of a bankruptcy case can have a significant impact on your financial plans and peace of mind. (more…)

By Mark Rubin|2025-06-27T15:36:38-05:00June 27th, 2025|Bankruptcy, Bankruptcy Myths, Bankruptcy Statistics, Debt, Texas Bankruptcy|

Can you file for bankruptcy more than once?

Unfortunately, sometimes bad things happen to good people more than once. An unexptected hospital bill, the loss of a job, a reduction on pay, or any other financial setback can cause spiraling debt. Sometimes, lightning does strike twice. If you are struggling with overwhelming debt and considering bankruptcy, you may be wondering whether it is possible to file for bankruptcy more than once. The answer is yes — individuals can file for bankruptcy multiple times. However, the timing between filings, the type of bankruptcy previously filed, and the outcome of that case all play critical roles in determining your eligibility and what protections you will receive.

At Rubin & Associates, we understand that financial hardship can strike more than once, even for higher-income families. Whether you have previously filed a Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 case, it is important to know how the law handles repeat filings and how we can help you strategically plan your next steps. (more…)

By Mark Rubin|2025-07-01T14:17:54-05:00June 20th, 2025|Bankruptcy, Bankruptcy Myths, Debt, Financial, Money Management, Personal Finance, Texas Bankruptcy|

Does my spouse have to file bankruptcy with me?

One of the most common questions we hear from potential clients is “Does my spouse have to file for bankruptcy with me?” This question is especially relevant for higher-income residents in Dallas, Texas, who often manage complex financial portfolios and obligations. There is no rule requiring that a spouse also file for bankruptcy, but in certain situations, it may be benficial to do so. Let me explain the nuances so you can ease your mind and make a clear decision. (more…)

By Mark Rubin|2025-05-22T15:20:25-05:00May 22nd, 2025|Acquisitions, Bankruptcy, Bankruptcy Myths, Debt, Financial, Personal Finance, Texas Bankruptcy|

What is the automatic stay?

When you are struggling with overwhelming debt, the pressure can feel relentless — calls from creditors, letters demanding payment, even the threat of foreclosure or repossession. But filing for bankruptcy can offer powerful relief, and one of the most immediate and impactful tools it provides is the automatic stay.

The automatic stay is a legal provision that instantly goes into effect the moment you file for bankruptcy. It’s a court-ordered injunction that stops most collection efforts in their tracks, giving you the breathing room you need to get your finances under control. (more…)

By Mark Rubin|2025-03-28T09:08:15-05:00March 28th, 2025|Bankruptcy, Debt, Financial, Foreclosure in Texas, Repossession, Taxes, Texas Bankruptcy|

Can you file for bankruptcy during a divorce?

One of the most common questions about bankruptcy is, “Can you file for bankruptcy during a divorce?” The short answer is yes, but there are several considerations to take into account before moving forward with both legal processes simultaneously. Understanding the potential advantages and complications can help you determine the best course of action for your financial future.

Bankruptcy and divorce: two separate legal processes

Bankruptcy and divorce are both complex legal matters, and while they may overlap in certain areas, they remain distinct processes. Bankruptcy is a federal legal procedure designed to help individuals eliminate or restructure debt, while divorce is a state-level legal process that involves the division of assets, liabilities, and determining responsibilities such as spousal or child support. (more…)

By Mark Rubin|2025-03-03T16:14:39-06:00March 3rd, 2025|Bankruptcy, Bankruptcy Myths, Debt, Financial, Foreclosure in Texas, Personal Finance, Repossession, Taxes, Texas Bankruptcy, Videos|

Do I qualify for bankruptcy?

If you are asking yourself, “Do I qualify for bankruptcy?” you are not alone. Many individuals and families in the Dallas, Texas area find themselves overwhelmed by debt and are unsure whether bankruptcy is a viable option. As a bankruptcy attorney, I can assure you that everyone qualifies for bankruptcy relief. The real question is not whether you qualify, but rather which type of bankruptcy — Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 — is the best fit for your financial situation. In this post, I am going to explain the differences and help you understand how the bankruptcy process works. (more…)

By Mark Rubin|2025-01-22T09:52:59-06:00December 31st, 2024|Bankruptcy, Bankruptcy Myths, Debt, Texas Bankruptcy|

Will everyone know if I file for bankruptcy?

Filing for bankruptcy is a big decision, and one of the most common concerns is whether friends or family will know about it. The thought of others finding out can lead to feelings of embarrassment, stress, and uncertainty. At Rubin & Associates, we want you to understand the bankruptcy process fully and feel assured that there is no shame in seeking financial relief.

Bankruptcy records are public, but not easily accessible

Yes, bankruptcy filings are technically public records. However, this does not mean that your friends, family members, or neighbors will automatically know about it. For someone to access bankruptcy records, they would need to perform a specific search through online databases or government websites – and they would need to specifically search for your name. Most people do not spend their time searching for this information, and there is very little chance anyone will stumble upon it by accident. (more…)

By Mark Rubin|2024-12-17T08:58:13-06:00December 17th, 2024|Bankruptcy, Bankruptcy Myths, Debt, Texas Bankruptcy|

Is there an income limit to file for bankruptcy?

Financial struggles are more common that most people think – most Dallas-area residents are only one financial bump in the road away from out of control debt. One of the most common questions we hear in initial consultations with clients is if there is an income limit to file for bankruptcy. One of the most common misconceptions about bankruptcy is that it is only available to people with very low incomes. This simply is not true. Whether you are earning a modest salary or have a high-paying job, bankruptcy can still be a viable option for getting your finances back on track. (more…)

By Mark Rubin|2024-11-30T20:14:40-06:00November 30th, 2024|Bankruptcy, Bankruptcy Myths, Debt, Financial, Foreclosure in Texas, Money Management, Personal Finance|

Another amazing review for Rubin & Associates

We received an amazing testimonial for Rubin & Associates from a recent client and we wanted to share it here on our site. We know that are quite a few bankruptcy attorneys in Dallas and it can be difficult to choose one to help you through an already stressful period of your life. Reading what other people have to say can always help, so we try to share as many of these testimonials as possible.

Here’s what our recent client AJ had to say:

I haven’t had the chance to personally thank you for your help and I want to take a moment to do that now.

A client of yours recommended me to you and told me how you really helped her. I was skeptical at first and scared as well because I had gotten myself in trouble with debt again.

I prayed and asked God was this the right thing to do because I didn’t want to lose anything I had worked so hard for. Now that I am putting myself through school to have more pay it was very hard for me to work extra hours and keep everything up and trying to study at the same time.

I knew I had to do something and I was sent to you. Mr. Rubin, I cannot express enough how grateful I am for your help. I still have my vehicle, I can put myself through school and not lose anything and I am so thankful for your help. You are truly a blessing and I just want to say Thank you, Thank you.

May God continue to bless you, your staff and the work you do to help me and others… Again a deep thank you for your help.

Thank you!

By Mark Rubin|2024-11-15T08:42:29-06:00November 13th, 2024|Bankruptcy, Debt, Financial|