Need Advice With What-if Scenario...

Question:
I have managed to keep my credit intact for the better part of 2 years by doing the credit card shuffle and by selling some stock that I received at a startup. I am quickly reaching the end and won't be able to keep manuevering my money around like that. My scenario is: Current Income - Living expenses - student loan/car leases - credit card payments = -$300(or more) If I am able to eliminate my credit card payments the picture would look like: Current Income - Living expenses - student loan/car leases = approx $800 I can't really get rid of my car leases, because I need a reliable vehicle to get to/from work. Can I still qualify to file for Ch 7? Since my after BK cash flow is positive, will I be expected to pay some of the money back? I live in California, will that make a big difference in what will happen to me? Help!! I'm not sure what my options are. I've read that some people question whether or not they should file if they have $100 at the end of each month and if they bank is going to take it from them. So many questions. I know that I need to talk to a lawyer to get all of my options, but I could really use some help to get me started. Thanks in advance,

Answer:
I was told by my attorney that if I had $200 left at the end of month once the secured debts and living expenses were paid then I would need to file Chapter 13 instead of Chapter 7. I'm sure it would not be difficult (and probably not unreasonable) to come up with some more monthly expenses in order to reduce that amount. If you haven't already, include amounts for car maintenance, medical, clothing, charity, etc.





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