
Tax Considerations for Your Bankruptcy Filing in Los Angeles
Los Angeles Bankruptcy Attorneys Can Help You Understand
Debt problems can affect your tax status in ways you wouldn’t expect. If you are considering bankruptcy to solve your debt problems, it is important to understand potential tax implications. At RHM LAW LLP, our lawyers have the experience to help you see how bankruptcy will affect your entire financial picture, including tax considerations. We are committed to helping you achieve debt relief while avoiding any unnecessary tax liability.
Contact our firm for a free consultation with a Los Angeles bankruptcy attorney. It could be your first step on the road to debt relief.
Does Bankruptcy Have Tax Consequences?
In most cases, filing for bankruptcy has far fewer tax consequences than other debt relief options. For instance, if you work out a debt settlement with a lender, and your debt is reduced, the IRS will likely consider the reduction income and tax you on it. If you settle with a mortgage lender, and your home loan is reduced by $100,000, you just “earned” $100,000 in income and will be taxed on every penny of it.
This does not happen in bankruptcy. If you file for bankruptcy and receive a 1099 form from a creditor claiming you made income from a discharged debt, you should file a 982 form advising the IRS that the debt was discharged in bankruptcy and should have no tax consequences.
Bankruptcy & the IRS
Filing for bankruptcy enacts the automatic stay, which stops creditors from taking collection actions against you, including actions by the IRS. However, it does not stop the IRS from auditing you, making tax assessments, or demanding you file your tax returns. It is also important to note that filing for bankruptcy may affect your tax status in terms of what exemptions you are allowed or not allowed to take.
There are many tax considerations to make when filing for bankruptcy. Every case is different. If you have questions about how bankruptcy will affect your tax status, it is wise to consult with an experienced Los Angeles bankruptcy lawyer.
Contact RHM LAW LLP
Our offices are open weekdays from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and we serve clients in the Los Angeles area and San Fernando Valley through offices in Encino and Los Angeles.
Schedule your free initial consultation by calling our firm at (213) 344-0043.

RHM LAW LLP
Meet Our Los Angeles Bankruptcy Specialists
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M. Jonathan Hayes Senior Counsel
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Matt D. Resnik | Managing Partner Certified Bankruptcy Specialist
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Roksana D. Moradi-Brovia | Partner Certified Bankruptcy Specialist
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W. Sloan Youkstetter | Associate Attorney Certified Bankruptcy Specialist
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Russell J. Stong III | Associate Attorney Certified Bankruptcy Specialist
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David M. Kritzer Associate Attorney

Client Reviews
What Clients Say About Working With Us
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Dear Mr. Resnik: We wanted to thank you for your professional handling of our loan modification with GMAC mortgage. We are very happy that you were able to accomplish the modification of our loan in such a short period of time. Thank you again for your professional service.
- W and B Mejia -
Thank you for your great work on behalf of Ms. Johnson. Without the support of pro bono attorneys we couldn't do all the work we need to do, and your firm in particular is outstanding.
- Skip K. -
Was very impressed with the comprehensive professionalism of the firm, especially Matthew Resnik... I had suffered through the incompetence of two previous bk lawyers not to mention fees far greater than anticipated, without resolution. Having never gone through bk before, I did not realize how difficult it could be...then, my case was turned over to Mr. Resnik...almost immediately there was a marked positive difference. Where there was little to no communication, all of a sudden I am getting updates...regularly. Further, my case was finally discharged...yet, Mr. Resnik continues to communicate, offer assistance...and, has NEVER asked for additional fees, which I am sure he could have justified...much unlike the two previous attorneys with which I was dealing. I have no reservations, whatsoever, referring and recommending Matthew Resnik for any and all business or personal bk issues...or, other wise. I have no doubt that he will be transparent on helping you regardless of the problem. Good guy.. good firm... a wonderful experience!
- G.L -
Matt and his team are the best!! They were thorough, extremely knowledgeable, wonderful to deal with, thoughtful, and really helped guide me through what was one of the toughest times in my life. I never felt judged or looked down on. They were efficient and really were lifesavers during this tough time. I can not recommend them highly enough!!!!- Rusty H.
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I worked with Matt and his team for about a year to get through the paperwork shuffle and my personal experience was nothing short of fantastic. Legal situations have a tendency to get hairy, but Matt and his staff conducted themselves with professionalism throughout the whole ordeal. To keep it short, let's just say he under-promised and over-delivered. Rarely would I ever say this about an attorney, but overall he was just a great guy. I would not hesitate to have him on my side of the courtroom again. World market is right across the street from his office and I even decided to get his staff a thank you / holiday gift card. World market has excellent craft beer BTW, try the Einstock White Ale. They also validate parking. That just shows this isn't a fake review.- Dean C.
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Where to begin? I had a vile evil credit union repo my car over a misunderstanding, they wouldn't work with me even when I offered full payment plus repo fees (this was my first repo!) so I didn't know what to do. I met with a few lawyers but when I met with Simon he broke things down and gave me my options. I needed a car - so I filed BK and included the car to get it back. The evil credit union fought and Simon GOT ME MY CAR BACK!!! His team is amazing!!!! Maria Donna etc!!! These are top-notch pros that'll have your back. I cannot recommend them highly enough. Sincerely they saved my life. LA with no car!? ARGH!!!!!! *THANX ALL!!!!- Tim C.
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I filed bankruptcy with this firm 3 years ago and found that they are professional, friendly, and compassionate. I also met with their loan modification department. Unfortunately, they were unable to help because of the type of loan that I have. I really appreciated that they did not lie, waste my time, or take my money in an attempt to modify a loan that was not doable. I've since used their firm for a couple of minor issues and found all of the attorneys to be knowledgeable and considerate. Attorneys Simon and Resnik are amazing!- Shannon J.
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I needed a bankruptcy attorney in Sherman Oaks and found Matt Resnik on Google. He has one of the best-reviewed bankruptcy law firms on Yelp so I decided to check it out his law firm for myself. I quickly found out that they are foreclosure specialists and they could help me with my issue. They made the process very easy for me and laid out my options for me. I cannot thank them enough for helping save my home. I would recommend them for anyone that is thinking about filing for bankruptcy or foreclosure on their home. They are the best bankruptcy law firm in Sherman Oaks.- Joseph R.
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Matt is the best bankruptcy attorney in Sherman Oaks. I consulted with Matt over a chapter 7 bankruptcy. I had issues with overwhelming credit card debt after Chase increased it's APR for no reason. It set off a chain of events that were really hurting me. He made me feel like I had options, all was not lost, and I could rebuild my credit after the 7. I had some concerns about a piece of property I was having issues with and Matt also turned out to be a real estate lawyer as well! I recommend this office to anyone who is unsure of their financial situation. It doesn't hurt to find out your options.- Max B.

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A Summary of Bankruptcy Law: Third Edition
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Summary of Chapter 13