Should we buy a car before filing??

[girlgator95]

Hi all,
We are finally getting ready to file in early Sept. We are about $800 above the median, so not sure if we will be doing 7 or 13. My concern is that my husband is driving a 14 year old diesel (paid for) that could cause expensive repairs in the next 5 years. Our credit is already in the 500's, so we thought about getting him something a bit newer and more reliable at a buy here/pay here car lot. My concern is that if we add a second car payment just before filing, the new payment may push us from a 13 to a 7 in the means test. Would that cause us any problems?

We are fine with a 7 or 13, but are just worried about the reliability of his vehicle. We would appreciate any advice or experience in this area.

[momofthree]

If you can qualify for a ch.7 by buying a new vehicle, then do it!

[sunshinepa]

If I had my choice and a vehicle would push me into a 7.....I'd be running to the car lot!!!! Just make sure you can afford the payment. It is not uncommon for folks to get cars before filing, that in itself should not be a problem. Unless of course your buying a Jag or Beamer, that might raise some eybrows.....LOL.

[karm43]

Try a regular dealership first you just never know, even with your credit in the 500 you may pay more interest but have a quality car. The only thing they could say is no.

[karm43]

Oh and if you do pay more interest I believe they knock that down with bankruptsy. Researching it

[malf1204]

I did. I bought a used vehicle with 5500 miles and received a 6.14% rate through Ally 1 month before filing. Ally asked to reaffirm, the judge denied the reaffirmation and now as long as I make the payments I can keep it.