What is a “Cramdown” in Bankruptcy?

Navigating the complexities of bankruptcy requires a thorough understanding of its terms and provisions. Among these, the “cramdown” is one of the more nuanced yet powerful tools available to borrowers. Let’s dive deep into cramdowns, demystifying what they mean and how they function within the realm of bankruptcy.

What is a Cramdown?

In the context of bankruptcy, a cramdown allows the borrower to modify certain secured loans by reducing the principal balance to match the current market value of the collateral. 

That sounds complicated, doesn’t it? Let’s put the process into simpler terms: it “crams down” the amount of the loan to the asset’s value, which could be lower than it was at the time of the loan being approved, potentially offering substantial financial relief.

How Cramdowns Work

How exactly does this work? 

Cramdowns can be applied in several ways:

• Reduction of Principal: If an asset (like a car) has depreciated over time and is worth less than the remaining loan balance, the cramdown can reduce the debt to reflect the asset’s current value. The portion of the debt exceeding the asset’s value becomes unsecured and is often discharged at the end of the bankruptcy process. If you’re unsure about the difference between secured and unsecured debt, or why unsecured debt is easier to discharge in bankruptcy, then click here to learn more.
• Interest Rate Alteration: Beyond reducing the principal balance, cramdowns can also modify the interest rate on a secured debt, like a business loan or a home equity loan. This can further ease the financial burden on the borrower.
• Extension of Loan Term: A cramdown might involve extending the loan’s repayment term. This can lead to smaller, more manageable monthly payments, although the financial obligation will persist for a longer period of time. 

Cramdowns in Different Chapters of Bankruptcy

• Chapter 13 Bankruptcy: Cramdowns are most commonly associated with Chapter 13 bankruptcy, because Chapter 13 deals with secured debt, which requires collateral. These types of debts include mortgages, car loans, and business loans. Here, the borrower proposes a repayment plan, and the crammed-down loan gets incorporated into this plan, usually spanning 3 to 5 years.
• Chapter 7 Bankruptcy: Chapter 7 is commonly referred to as “liquidation bankruptcy”; rather than creating a 3 to 5-year repayment plan to the lender, the borrower’s assets (excluding exempt assets) are sold in order to repay the debt. However, certain courts might allow for loan modifications through reaffirmation agreements.

Limitations and Special Considerations

• 910 Day Rule for Vehicles: For auto loans, the vehicle must have been purchased more than 910 days (roughly 2.5 years) before filing for bankruptcy to be eligible for a cramdown.
• Anti-Cramdown for Mortgages: Cramdowns are typically not applicable to mortgages on a borrower’s primary residence. However, they can be used for other properties, like investment or vacation homes.

What You’ve Learned

Cramdowns in bankruptcy offer a lifeline to those burdened by debts that exceed the value of their assets. By effectively reducing principal amounts, adjusting interest rates, and potentially extending loan terms, cramdowns can make debts more manageable and pave the way for financial rejuvenation. However, as with all aspects of bankruptcy, it’s crucial to consult with a knowledgeable attorney to understand the full scope of options and ensure that decisions align with individual financial scenarios.

For a free consultation with a qualified bankruptcy attorney, click here or call (833) 598-1595.