Some people come to see their income tax refunds as a yearly bonus. In reality these refunds are usually caused by a taxpayer having paid too much in taxes during the past year. Sometimes people have even come to rely upon these refunds for planned yearly spending to catch up on bills, go on vacation, buy necessities, etc. Because of this reliance upon income tax refunds, those looking at filing for bankruptcy are often dismayed to find that the bankruptcy court may seize part or all of their refunds. How might this be avoided?
The first thing someone looking to file bankruptcy must understand is the idea of the “bankruptcy estate.” Every asset they have, or have the right to receive, at the time they file their bankruptcy is filed is considered a part of the bankruptcy estate. Every asset, to the extent not considered exempt, is subject to being taken by the bankruptcy trustee to distribute to the debtor’s creditors. Avoiding this taking of assets is one of the goals the person looking to file for bankruptcy, and should be the goal for an experienced bankruptcy attorney.
The best way to avoid loss of the refund is to work with an experienced bankruptcy attorney. At the Law Office of Douglas Barrett, LLC we can help you determine when to file your tax return and when to file for bankruptcy protection. There are a many, many, many possible pitfalls for the unsuspecting bankruptcy filer in Utah. Visit us at www.utahbk.info for more information