Filing for bankruptcy

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I have so much debt that just to make the minimum payments eats up more than my SSI check every month. I got a credit card in 2007 to fund a business I wanted to start, well then inflation hit and I had to use it to buy food, then I had to get more cards. My mom cosigned for a loan to wipe out that debt, only inflation still raged so I just ended up filling the cards back up. 95% of my debt comes from food and everyday items, 4% from the business that failed, and just 1% from crap I really didn't need. Now my mom is mad because part of my debt is in her name, but I will keep paying that and just file bankruptcy to wipe out the rest.

I feel awful. I always hated debt, but I had no choice because my SSI check ran out halfway through the month. I have a little student loan debt, and the debt that's in my mom's name, as well as the cards. I want to be a computer repairman working for myself and I don't know how to fund my advertising now. I have nearly $50k worth of total debt and my SSI is only $927/mo. My business that failed only cost $8k, and my student loan is $7500. So as you can see I spent a lot of money on food and gasoline. I am trying to make it as a computer repairman, but a lot of other people are too, and they are offering $30 flat rate which I can't match, but they're college students and I'm 34. I live with my parents and own my own car, so I won't lose the basics.

Do you have a social worker? Mine is free from my health center, but I also have access to one through my health insurance. He/She may be able to find you some more assistance. I'd say food stamps, but I'm pretty sure you have to be paying rent to qualify.

I assume this would negate your SSI, but can you try to find a paying job, like at GeekSquad at Best Buy for instance, so you can do your computer repair with a steady paycheck, and get some experience you can sell yourself with when you do start your business?

I hope somebody who has started a business or is in computer repair can help you more. Good luck!

pezar, I'm so sorry your going through all this. I hope things get better soon.

Why don't you set up shop in your house with a simple workbench, necessary tools and an attention getting well-placed sign outside? Get a client base before you have all the overhead associated with a storefront location...For advertising there are bulletin boards [free]...but advertising should really be a top priority if this business is [eventually to be] your bread and butter---right up there with food and rent.
I don't get this. Isn't some money better than no income from working [in addition to SSI]? You've possibly considered working with and for others that already have an established customer base??? If you're determined to go it alone--why not offer your service at a competitive rate or slightly undercut the competition?


Bankruptcy
Under the Dubya Admin, bankruptcy laws were toughened to discourage filing. Also under the Obama Admin there was a bill passed regarding credit card companies and their rates and policies... ostensibly to limit their charges.