Bankruptcy & Debt Relief Resources
Official guides, educational materials, and authoritative resources
Navigate Your Way to a Fresh Start
Official U.S. Courts Resources
U.S. Courts Bankruptcy Basics
Official bankruptcy information from the federal courts
Comprehensive guide covering bankruptcy chapters, filing process, and what to expect.
Visit Resource →Bankruptcy Forms
Official bankruptcy forms and instructions
Download official bankruptcy forms directly from the U.S. Courts website.
Visit Resource →Find Your Bankruptcy Court
Locate your local bankruptcy court
Find contact information and jurisdiction for your local bankruptcy court.
Visit Resource →Means Test Information
Understanding Chapter 7 eligibility
Learn about the means test and income requirements for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
Visit Resource →Educational Guides
Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13: Which is Right for You?
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
- • Liquidation bankruptcy
- • Discharges most unsecured debts
- • Completed in 3-6 months
- • Must pass means test
- • May lose non-exempt assets
- • Best for low-income filers
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
- • Reorganization bankruptcy
- • 3-5 year repayment plan
- • Keep your assets
- • Requires regular income
- • Stop foreclosure/repossession
- • Best for higher earners with assets
What Debts Can Be Discharged?
Typically Dischargeable
- • Credit card debt
- • Medical bills
- • Personal loans
- • Utility bills
- • Business debts (in most cases)
- • Old income taxes (certain conditions)
Generally Not Dischargeable
- • Student loans (unless undue hardship)
- • Recent income taxes
- • Child support and alimony
- • Court fines and penalties
- • Debts from fraud or theft
- • DUI-related debts
Understanding Exemptions
Exemptions protect certain property from being sold to pay creditors in bankruptcy. Each state has its own exemption laws, and some allow you to choose federal exemptions instead.
Common Exemptions:
- • Homestead exemption (protects equity in your home)
- • Motor vehicle exemption
- • Personal property and household goods
- • Retirement accounts and pensions
- • Tools of the trade (work equipment)
- • Public benefits (Social Security, disability)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to file bankruptcy?
Court filing fees are $338 for Chapter 7 and $313 for Chapter 13 (2024 rates). If you file on your own, these may be your only costs. Attorney fees vary widely by location and complexity, typically ranging from $1,000-$3,500 for Chapter 7 and $3,000-$6,000 for Chapter 13.
Will I lose my house or car?
It depends on your equity and state exemptions. Most people keep their home and car in bankruptcy. In Chapter 7, if you're current on payments and equity is protected by exemptions, you typically keep them. Chapter 13 specifically helps you catch up on missed payments through your repayment plan.
How long does bankruptcy stay on my credit report?
Chapter 7 remains on your credit report for 10 years from the filing date. Chapter 13 stays for 7 years. However, many people start rebuilding credit within 12-24 months after filing, and the impact lessens over time.
Can I file bankruptcy more than once?
Yes, but there are time limits. After a Chapter 7 discharge, you must wait 8 years before filing Chapter 7 again, or 4 years before filing Chapter 13. After a Chapter 13 discharge, you must wait 6 years before filing Chapter 7, or 2 years before filing Chapter 13 again.
Additional Resources
Credit Counseling Agencies
Find approved credit counseling providers
Bankruptcy requires completion of credit counseling. Find approved agencies in your district.
Visit Resource →U.S. Trustee Program
Information about bankruptcy trustees
Learn about the role of the U.S. Trustee and bankruptcy administration.
Visit Resource →