Perspectives

Business Law

Chapter 11 Bankruptcy: Small Business Reorganization Act – A Welcome Relief to Small Business Owners.

Small businesses are a pillar of the American economy. In 2005, Congress enacted Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act to allow small business owners easier options for reorganization.

After almost 15 years, Congress realized small business debtors were the least likely to have a successful reorganization while still having a high number of small business failures.

On August 23, 2019, Congress passed the Small Business Reorganization Act (SBRA). The SBRA is a Chapter 11 reorganization bankruptcy under the new subchapter, Subchapter V.

The SBRA has new requirements as to which individuals or entities will qualify under Subchapter V, as well as new procedures. These features were added to allow small business to avoid some of the burdensome costs and time typically associated with a Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

The highlights of the SBRA are as follows:

  1. Debt limit has a baseline of total debt at $2,725,625;
  2. Elimination of the absolute-priority rule for creditors;
  3. Appointment of a trustee, similar to those appointed in Chapter 12 and Chapter 13 of the Bankruptcy Code; and
  4. Less strenuous disclosure statements and more debtor-friendly rules governing the plan requirements.

The complexity of filing bankruptcy for small businesses owners and small business debtors may be lessened by these new changes, the option to file under Subchapter V will keep many businesses operating.

The changes brought forth by the SBRA are exciting and a welcoming change to the law. There are many factors for small business owners to consider before filing of a reorganization bankruptcy. As always, it is best to consult with your LegalShield provider firm for a more detailed analysis.

Posted on April 14, 2020

WFJ Presents: Selling Your Small Business, Part One

WFJ’s Small Business Team has counseled clients in the execution of small business asset purchases for a diverse set of industries, including restaurants/food service, manufacturing, publishing, insurance, retail, and many others.