If the collector gets a judgement, shall I file bankruptcy?

Bankruptcy should be used as a last resort. Have you attempted to make payment arrangements with them?

I qualify for chapter 7. I am hoping I do not have to file.

If you are interested in paying off the debt, get all your pay stubs and other documents to show a proof of your income. You can request the judge to fix up a plan with the Resurgent.

Not sure how much you owe them, but it might actually be more expensive for you to file a Chapt 7 than to just pay them. Having an attorney file Chap 7 for you can run anywhere from $550 to $1500.

Also, you usually need to pay the attorney up front before they will file. The bankruptcy attorneys will allow you to make payments to them, but be aware until the attorney has actually filed a case in court, you're not really bankrupt... I say that because I have seen BK attorneys give payment plans that take over a year before they actually file your case; during that year, Resurgent can proceed to garnish your wages.

I would listen to the advice given. With the new BK laws it is tougher to qualify for a chpt. 7 and with the headaches and scrutiny involved now, I think you are much better off working out arrangements with the creditors.

And Debtcruncher is right, it is much more expensive now with the new laws.

Thanks for the advice.

I qualify for chapter 7. The debt I owed was twice what the Resurgents say it is. I will not be paying them a dime. They can't garnish my wages-cuz I have none.
I can borrow money from a friend to pay the BK if it ever comes about. I will fight a judgement, first, then if I need to, I will file for chapter 7.