YOUR MONEY: Read up on personal bankruptcy before making a decision

Declaring bankruptcy is not an easy choice. But for those in dire straits, it can prove a viable option that allows financial recovery.

Bankruptcy comes in different forms. For instance, Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy are designed for individuals, while Chapter 11 bankruptcy deals with businesses.

If you'd like to learn what bankruptcy entails, several recent books on the topic are available to consult. Here are a few titles:

"CHAPTER 13 BANKRUPTCY, 9TH ED."

By Stephen Elias and Robin Leonard

Nolo Press, 2008 ($39.99)

Includes how to pay certain debts, developing a payment plan and state and federal bankruptcy forms.

"HOW TO FILE FOR CHAPTER 7 BANKRUPTCY, 15TH ED."

By Stephen Elias, Albin Renauer and Robin Leonard

Nolo Press, 2008 ($29.99)

Explains bankruptcy eligibility and filing, and canceling debt.

"THE PERSONAL BANKRUPTCY ANSWER BOOK"

By Wendell Schollander

Sourcebooks, 2009 ($16.99)

Addresses typical questions about bankruptcy, including differences between secure and unsecured debt, and rebuilding credit.

"THE PERSONAL BANKRUPTCY TOOLKIT"

By Daniel Sitarz

Nova, 2008 ($29.95)

Offers guide to filing Chapter 7, worksheets and federal bankruptcy forms.

Tags: money, bankruptcy, business