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Credit Counseling Requirement In Bankruptcy

In 2005, Congress added a step to the bankruptcy filing process. All individuals filing bankruptcy must participate in an approved credit counseling course within 180 days prior to filing for bankruptcy. 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 information on these requirements, including where to find approved courses near you.

The Difference Between Credit Counseling And Debtor Education?

What Is the difference between credit counseling and 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.

Prefiling Credit Counseling

You must participate in a credit counseling program within 180 days before filing for bankruptcy. The purpose of credit counseling is to determine if an individual needs to file bankruptcy or if they would benefit from creating a repayment plan with their creditors.

Click here to access a list of approved providers

Post-Filing Debtor Education

Before you get a bankruptcy discharge, you must take a course on debtor education and financial management. The purpose of debtor education is to provide individuals with financial knowledge and tools to better manage their income and debts post-filing.

Click here to access a list of approved providers 

Contact Us To Get Real Debt Relief

Need help with finding credit counseling? Our attorneys at Phillips, Artura & Cox, Attorneys at Law, are here to help answer all of your concerns with the bankruptcy process. Call our Lindenhurst office at 631-226-2100. We are available for evening appointments, charge competitive rates and are conveniently located south of Sunrise Highway by the Lindenhurst train station. 

We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code.