Credit Counseling & Debtor Education Requirements in Bankruptcy

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In 2005, Congress added a step to the bankruptcy filing process. Individuals filing for either Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy must participate in an approved credit counseling course prior to filing for bankruptcy. And before you get a discharge at the end of your case, you must take another class on personal financial management. There are limited exceptions for both requirements -- but very few people will qualify for them.

Here you'll find detailed on information on these requirements, including where to find approved courses near you.

Overview

What Is the Difference Between Credit Counseling & the Debtor Education Requirement in Bankruptcy?
The credit counseling and debtor education courses are two separate requirements for Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Learn what they are and when you must take the classes.

Prebankruptcy Credit Counseling

You must participate in a credit counseling program before filing for bankruptcy. Get the details here.

The Pre-Bankruptcy Credit Counseling Requirement
Get the details on bankruptcy's credit counseling requirement.
Exceptions to Bankruptcy’s Credit Counseling Requirement
In a few situations, you may not have to get credit counseling before you file for bankruptcy.
Getting Pre-Bankruptcy Credit Counseling for Free
With the newly created Internet service, ConsumerBankruptcyCounseling.info, you can get pre-bankruptcy credit counseling for free.

Predischarge Debtor Education

Before you get a bankruptcy discharge, you must take course on debtor education and financial management.

The Predischarge Counseling Requirement in Bankruptcy
You must take a personal financial management course before you get a bankruptcy discharge.
Exceptions to Bankruptcy's Predischarge Counseling Requirement
There are a few exceptions to the requirement that you take a personal financial management course in bankruptcy.

Finding an Approved Provider

Here's where to find a provider approved by the U.S. Trustee.

How to Find an Approved Credit or Debt Counseling Agency
Find an approved credit counseling or debtor education agency for bankruptcy, and learn which forms you must file after you get the counseling.