MTA Tolls and Bankruptcy: What You Need to Know

As a Bankruptcy Attorney I have a tremendous amount of experience discharging MTA Tolls.  In this blog post, we will delve into the consequences that arise from not paying your MTA toll bills and how it impacts both drivers and the overall functioning of our transportation infrastructure.

We’ll explore why unpaid tolls are such a significant issue for federal funding as well as examine some common misconceptions surrounding them. Failing to pay your MTA bridge or tunnel tolls can incur hefty fines and penalties, so understanding the implications is essential for making informed decisions about driving habits.

Understanding MTA Tolls and Bankruptcy

The MTA, the nation’s largest public transit system, carries a responsibility to its users to pay their fares and fines or face substantial debt. Riders of the MTA must pay their tolls and fines, otherwise accruing debt can quickly become unmanageable and may require filing for bankruptcy. For many, the costs of unmet tolls can quickly become exorbitant, resulting in a hefty financial strain that is often too much to bear. Bankruptcy may offer relief for those struggling financially due solely because of these types’ specific kinds-of-unsecured-debt obligations.

When considering bankruptcy as an option, there are two primary chapters: Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. In Chapter 7 bankruptcy, certain debts are discharged or forgiven by the court; however, not all debt is dischargeable in this type of filing. MTA toll violations do not qualify as “dischargeable” debt under this chapter—meaning you must still pay them off even after your other debts have been cleared away.

In contrast, Chapter 13 bankruptcy offers more flexibility when dealing with MTA toll violations and other non-dischargeable debts like traffic tickets or fines from EZPass or NY Transit Authority violations. This type of filing allows individuals to set up a repayment plan that meets their budget needs while still allowing them some breathing room during difficult times such as job loss or medical bills piling up too high for one paycheck alone to cover it all at once.

Finally, if you find yourself in over your head with mounting bills related to MTA travel expenses – don’t panic. There are options available that can help ease the financial burden brought about by unpaid tolls and fines while keeping your finances afloat during tough times ahead.

It is important to understand the implications of MTA tolls on a bankruptcy filing in order to make an informed decision. Knowing the contrasts between Chapter 7 and 13 with regards to release of toll debt is essential for making an informed bankruptcy decision.

Dischargeability of Toll Debt in Chapter 7 vs Chapter 13

When it comes to discharging toll debt through bankruptcy, there are key differences between chapter seven and chapter thirteen filings. Unpaid MTA-related bills such as E-ZPass fines and toll debts are considered unsecured debt in both chapters. However, only Chapter Thirteen offers some relief if you’re struggling with governmental fines and tolls.

In Chapter 7 bankruptcy, toll debt is non dischargeable; however, in a Chapter 13 filing it may be required to pay back a small portion of the tolls and fines. Next, we’ll look into the financial implications of traffic violations.

How Bankruptcy Can Help With Unpaid Tolls

Filing for bankruptcy can be a great way to get relief from unpaid toll bills. If you have been having difficulty managing debts related to transportation authorities such as NY Transit Authority, filing for bankruptcy could be a way out. In this article, we’ll explore how both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcies can help discharge some or all of your outstanding debts related to transportation authorities such as NY Transit Authority so that you can get back on track towards financial stability.

When looking at bankruptcy to deal with unpaid tolls, it is essential to differentiate between Chapter 7 and 13. With a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, MTA and similar tolls are non dischargeable. In contrast, Chapter 13 Bankruptcy may involve a repayment plan over an extended period (usually 3-5 years).  This could provide much needed relief if you are unable to pay off your entire balance right away but still want some form of repayment plan in place instead of complete dischargeability.  In chapter 13 there is NO requirement that the tolls are paid back.  A chapter 13 plan can be sucessful even if none of the tolls are paid back in the case.

Declaring bankruptcy may be a useful solution for those having difficulty paying their tolls, as it can allow them to write off the debt and gain fiscal respite.

FAQs in Relation to Mta Tolls and Bankruptcy

What happens to unpaid tolls in NYC?

Unpaid tolls in NYC are subject to collection by the New York State Department of Transportation. If unpaid, a violation notice will be sent with instructions on how to pay the outstanding amount due. Failure to comply may result in further legal action such as wage garnishment or liens being placed against property owned by the violator. Prompt payment of any tolls that remain unpaid is essential to avoid further legal repercussions such as wage garnishment or liens on property.

How do I waive a toll violation in NY?

Waiving a NY toll infraction may be possible, depending on the circumstances of your case. Generally speaking, if you can demonstrate financial hardship or that the violation was an error, then you may be able to have your ticket waived. You should contact a qualified bankruptcy attorney who specializes in Chapter 7 and 13 consumer bankruptcies for advice about how best to proceed with waiving your toll violation. A qualified bankruptcy lawyer can assess your situation and inform you if a waiver is feasible based on the particulars.

Can your car get towed for unpaid tolls in NYC?

Yes, your car can be towed for unpaid tolls in NYC. The NYC Department of Transportation has the power to tow any automobile with 3 or more unpaid tolls amounting to $200 or higher. If you are unable to pay off these violations before they reach this threshold, then it is likely that your car will be towed and impounded until all fees and fines are paid in full. If your vehicle is towed, you will be liable for the towing costs and all related fines.

Can my registration suspension be lifted if I file for chapter 13?

Yes, if the suspension is due solely to unpaid tolls then filing a chapter 13 Bankruptcy will lift the suspension.  Chapter 7 will not have this effect.

Conclusion

When it comes to mta tolls and bankruptcy, the best advice is to explore all your options. Bankruptcy can help you manage debt associated with unpaid tolls or fines, but it’s important to understand how traffic violations will impact your finances in the long run. It may be worth considering other methods of resolving outstanding payments such as working out a payment plan with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). Ultimately, by understanding what debts are dischargeable under Chapter 7 vs 13 and taking steps to avoid additional fees from violation notices, you’ll be able to make informed decisions about how best handle MTA tolls and bankruptcy.

If you are facing financial hardship due to MTA tolls and other debts, contact the Law Office of William Waldner for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys will provide tailored solutions that can help you get back on track.