By: Zalutsky & Pinski

Until now, we’ve mainly focused on credit card and older debt. But for many, it’s tickets and tollways that are the big problem. Thousands of Chicagoans have their livelihood threatened by not being able to drive to work. If you incur tickets with the city, you can have your vehicle booted and your license can also be suspended. Not only can’t you drive your own car, you can’t drive period! The tollway isn’t much better. Going through a toll without paying costs you plenty. One single unpaid toll can turn into hundreds in fines.

You might think that there is nothing you can do when it comes to this type of debt. Fortunately, that is not the case. At their discretion, the City of Chicago and the State of Illinois often offer amnesty days. During these periods, the agencies reduce the penalties charged for failure to pay on time. You will want to be in contact with the agency to find out when they might be offering these amnesty programs.

Another possibility is that both agencies may allow you to enter into a payment plan or otherwise make a settlement on the amount you owe. The amount required to settle, or initial amount required for a payment plan, varies and often depends on whether you meet the requirements to be considered under financial hardship.

If you can’t wait for the amnesty program or meet the requirements to make installment payments, bankruptcy may be another option. While filing Chapter 7 will not eliminate your tickets and tolls, it will generally get your license back and allow you some time to make arrangements to avoid having your license suspended again. It can also get your vehicle released from the pound.

Chapter 13 goes a step further. In a Chapter 13, you will get your license reinstated and may be able to repay the debt owed to the city or state for pennies on the dollar. This will give you the peace of mind needed so you are not worried every time you park your car that it will be impounded by the time you get back. You will also be driving around with a valid license and be able to support yourself and your family. If you would like more information or to discuss options including debt settlement or bankruptcy, contact us at 312-767-0111, via email at News@zaplawfirm.com or on the web at ZAPBillsNow.com.