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Columns: Driving for Dollars
Terry Jackson   Expert: Terry Jackson
Driving for Dollars
New lender terms likely to be brutal
Driving for Dollars

Hold onto car when filing bankruptcy
 

Dear Terry,
I recently filed Chapter 7 bankruptcy and have decided not to keep my car because I'm upside-down on the loan. Although I read that people who file bankruptcy can get a car and a mortgage, how hard will it be? How long before the car company picks up the car? Is leasing a better option than buying? I don't want to end up in worse shape. Please help!
-- Melissa

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Dear Melissa,
Don't be fooled into thinking that the moment your debts are discharged, getting new credit will be easy or cheap. While there are lenders who will give you a car loan, the interest rate and terms will likely be brutal. It's doubtful that you will be able to lease a new car, either.

If there's any way you can hang onto the car you've got, I would recommend that. If you have stopped making payments on the car, you can expect the lender to repossess it anytime you're two or more months behind.

This week:
Auto-industry friends can help you save
Is dealer financing my best option?
Do dealers routinely botch contracts?
Should I dump my car after bankruptcy?
Bankrate.com's corrections policy -- Posted: Oct. 19, 2007
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