Does having another child affect Chapter 13 payments?

I’m a single mom with four kids now. I don’t get child support, and I don’t qualify for any state assistance. Does having another child make a big difference in my monthly repayment plan for Chapter 13? I’m trying to figure out if this will lower my payments since my expenses have increased.

Your Chapter 13 payments are based on several factors, like your income, expenses, and what the trustee needs to pay out for things like car loans or tax debts. Adding another child might increase your expenses, but it depends on whether those expenses are factored into your plan. You should ask your attorney about this.

@Vic
Agreed. If your current payment is based on fixed debts rather than income and expenses, adding a child might not change much.

@Vic
Exactly. The trustee might prioritize debts like taxes or secured loans over your day-to-day expenses, so check with your attorney.

Family size does play a role in Chapter 13 criteria. Since you’re a family of five now, it might change the way your income and expenses are calculated. Definitely worth discussing with your lawyer.

Hale said:
Family size does play a role in Chapter 13 criteria. Since you’re a family of five now, it might change the way your income and expenses are calculated. Definitely worth discussing with your lawyer.

Yeah, larger family sizes can affect things like the means test, but it might not always impact your payment directly.

If you’re struggling with Chapter 13 payments, it might be worth asking your lawyer if converting to Chapter 7 is an option. It could simplify things depending on your situation.

Zion said:
If you’re struggling with Chapter 13 payments, it might be worth asking your lawyer if converting to Chapter 7 is an option. It could simplify things depending on your situation.

That’s a good point. Chapter 7 could be a better fit if your income and expenses make Chapter 13 unmanageable.

Your additional expenses for another child might not make a big difference if your plan is already focused on paying specific debts. Talk to your attorney about whether they can adjust your plan.

True said:
Your additional expenses for another child might not make a big difference if your plan is already focused on paying specific debts. Talk to your attorney about whether they can adjust your plan.

It might depend on how your plan was set up. If it’s based on disposable income, you might be able to get adjustments for the increased expenses.

Definitely reach out to your attorney. Family size is a factor, but it’s only one piece of the puzzle in Chapter 13. They can review your situation and see if any changes can be made.

Blair said:
Definitely reach out to your attorney. Family size is a factor, but it’s only one piece of the puzzle in Chapter 13. They can review your situation and see if any changes can be made.

Exactly. An attorney can help you figure out if the new expenses will make a difference or if your plan will stay the same.