Chapter 13 spells relief for some

Bankruptcy filings are growing again thanks to the downturn in the economy and greater awareness that the reforms of 2005 didn't actually eliminate bankruptcy. Filings fell off a cliff after the law changed to make bankruptcy more complicated. However, it's still available for many people who need it. My column Sunday delves into one filing option--Chapter 13. That's a repayment plan that can last up to five years and allow you to catch up if you've gotten behind on house or car payments and want to stave off forecosure or repossession. In some circumstances, it can be the best way to handle a bad situation. Here's one place to read more about bankruptcy.