I accumulated a lot of credit card debt last year due to my health problems (could not work for almost 6months). So far I been making the minimum payments on time, never missed a payment and i used to have an excellent credit before i got this 25k debt. Now because of coronavirus the restaurant i worked at was closed and i cant get a job anywhere else (I have a ssn but not work authorization right now as my status was changed). I can't afford the minimum payments, trying to keep the little savings i have for rent and essential expenses. Is filing for bankruptcy an option for me or should I just let my debt go to collections and be sued? Either way seems like my credit will be destroyed. I just want to keep my home and be able to survive the crisis at this point as i dont know when I can start working again. Also, im getting married in about a year. Is it possible that I won't get a green card or be deported because of this?
With the new Public Charge Rule, you will run into problems getting a green card. The negative information will hurt. The Public Charge Rule is new and all of its effects have not been fully realized yet, but your financial problems are likely to have a negative effect.
Filing bankruptcy could be considered under the Public Charge rule where relevant.
Yes, you could be adversely affected by the new Public Charge rule.
Please see https://www.avvo.com/legal-guides/ugc/public-charge-rule-is-expanded-how-does-this-affect-you-
Unfortunately under the Public Charge ground of inadmissibility rules which went into effect on February 24 this year this will be taken into account and can likely deem you to be a public charge.
The new enforcement of the PC rule initiated the Form I-944 which directly requests your credit history, credit score, as well as list of liabilities, debt; etc.
Yes, it can make you likely to become a public charge. The form I-944 asks for one's credit report, and evidence of debt etc.
