Chapter 13 →

Helping you repay your debts over time without losing your hard-earned assets

If you've fallen behind on your house or car payments, a Chapter 13 bankruptcy can stop foreclosure on your home, help you keep your car, and possibly even lower your payments on your car. In some cases, you might even qualify for a plan in which you only need to pay a percentage of your debt but still retain ownership of all your assets, including your home and car. Even if you owe for past parking tickets and have lost your driver’s license as a result, a Chapter 13 proceeding can qualify you to have your license reinstated. But to take advantage of all the benefits of a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you need an experienced bankruptcy lawyer on your side. Our expert bankruptcy attorneys have a solid record of success in handling Chapter 13 proceedings for our clients – and we can help you, too, pursue a positive outcome. To learn how we can serve you, make an appointment with one of our attorneys today.

Contact The Law Office of Jason Cline to schedule a consultation with a lawyer today at 505-595-0110

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Attorney In Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, NM

What Is A Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

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How Do I Qualify for a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

First of all, you need a regular, stable income – enough to make regular payments in the court’s judgment. Your income need not come from a job, but you can also qualify if you receive Social Security or disability benefits, unemployment payment, retirement benefits, or even rental income. However, if you’re a stock or commodity broker, you won’t be eligible for a Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Corporations, too, are ineligible for Chapter 13 relief. Sole proprietors and self-employed persons are also eligible if their debts fall within certain specified boundaries. Also, if your debts span more than three to five years, you will likely qualify, provided you pass a means test to determine your eligibility. Our experienced legal team can review your situation before you file to help you determine if a Chapter 13 bankruptcy is in your best interest. To get started, contact our office as soon as possible.

What Happens During a Chapter 13 Proceeding?

First, you’ll need to prove your eligibility through the means test we mentioned earlier. If you’re eligible, filing for a Chapter 13 bankruptcy will stop any foreclosures, wage garnishments, repossessions, lawsuits, or other harassment by your creditors. While we’ll help you create a repayment plan, the court must approve your plan. The court will determine whether you have proposed this plan in good faith, that the amount your unsecured creditors will receive is not less than you would have paid with a Chapter 7 filing. Also, your payments must maximize all your disposable income – which means all your income that does not go toward your support and maintenance. It’s a complex process, but with an experienced bankruptcy lawyer by your side, you can have the confidence that you will come out of the process with success. To start the process, get in touch with our office today.

Disclaimer: We are a debt relief agency. We are attorneys who help people file for bankruptcy relief under the bankruptcy code.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Frequently Asked Question

  • Who is a good candidate for Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Albuquerque?

    Chapter 13 may be a good option for individuals who have a steady source of income but need help catching up on mortgage payments, vehicle loans, tax obligations, or other debts. Attorney Jason Cline helps clients throughout Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, and surrounding New Mexico communities determine whether Chapter 13 is the right solution for their financial circumstances.

  • Can Chapter 13 help stop foreclosure proceedings?

    Yes. One of the primary benefits of Chapter 13 is that it can halt foreclosure actions through the automatic stay and provide an opportunity to catch up on past-due mortgage payments through a repayment plan. Attorney Jason Cline regularly assists homeowners seeking to protect their homes while working toward financial stability.

  • Will I be able to keep my house and vehicle?

    In many cases, Chapter 13 allows individuals to retain homes, vehicles, and other important assets while repaying debt over time. Because every financial situation is unique, Attorney Jason Cline reviews your income, assets, and obligations to develop a strategy tailored to your goals.

  • How long does a Chapter 13 repayment plan last?

    Most Chapter 13 repayment plans last between three and five years. The specific length depends on factors such as income, debt obligations, and the terms approved by the bankruptcy court.

  • Can Chapter 13 help with IRS tax debt?

    In some situations, Chapter 13 may help individuals address certain tax debts through a structured repayment plan. This can make repayment more manageable while providing protection from certain collection actions. Attorney Jason Cline can review your situation and explain the available options.

  • What happens if creditors keep calling me?

    Once a Chapter 13 bankruptcy case is filed, the automatic stay generally prevents most creditors from continuing collection efforts, including collection calls, lawsuits, wage garnishments, and other collection activities.

  • Is Chapter 13 better than Chapter 7 bankruptcy?

    Neither option is automatically better. Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 serve different purposes. Chapter 13 is often beneficial for individuals seeking to protect assets, stop foreclosure, or reorganize debt, while Chapter 7 may be appropriate for those seeking faster debt discharge. Attorney Jason Cline helps clients evaluate both options before making a decision.

  • Why work with Attorney Jason Cline for Chapter 13 bankruptcy?

    Attorney Jason Cline has worked in the bankruptcy field since 2002 and has helped numerous New Mexico families navigate financial challenges. His practice focuses on bankruptcy and foreclosure-related matters, providing clients with personalized guidance throughout the Chapter 13 process.

  • What areas do you serve for Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases?

    The Law Office of Jason Cline serves clients throughout Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, Sandoval County, Santa Fe, Los Lunas, and surrounding New Mexico communities. Whether you're facing foreclosure, overwhelming debt, or financial hardship, Attorney Cline can help you explore available bankruptcy solutions.

Take the First Step Toward Financial Stability

Financial challenges can feel overwhelming, but you may have more options than you realize. If you're struggling with mortgage arrears, tax debt, creditor pressure, or the possibility of foreclosure, Chapter 13 bankruptcy may provide a path toward regaining control of your finances while protecting the assets that matter most.


Attorney Jason Cline has spent more than two decades helping individuals and families throughout Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, Sandoval County, and communities across New Mexico navigate bankruptcy and foreclosure-related matters. Call (505) 595-0110 today to schedule a consultation and learn whether Chapter 13 bankruptcy may help you build a stronger financial future.

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