Nobody wants to file for bankruptcy. Even though you can discharge your debts so that you are no longer legally liable for them, there are a few negative consequences that come from filing for bankruptcy, including a hit to your credit score. However, if you are one of the millions of Americans who are struggling financially, bankruptcy may be the solution. The current coronavirus pandemic has hit the U.S. economy hard, causing unemployment to soar to levels unseen since the Great Depression. The coronavirus has affected many things, including making temporary changes to the bankruptcy code.
The CARES Act
Congress passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act in response to the economic crisis emerging from the pandemic. Valued at more than $2 trillion, the CARES Act was monumental for the U.S. as it is the largest stimulus package to become enacted in the history of the country. One of the most popular benefits the Act provides is the economic impact payments that are given to most households and individuals. Single tax filers will receive $1,200, while married couples who file jointly will receive $2,400. Each child that an individual or married couple has that is under 17 will receive an additional $500.
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