Debt relief · Chapter 7 and Chapter 13
Overwhelmed by debt? See if bankruptcy can give you a fresh start.
Answer a few questions about your debt and income. We'll connect you with a local bankruptcy attorney who can tell you whether Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 fits your situation. Free to use, no obligation.
- Takes about 60 seconds
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- Local bankruptcy attorneys
Facing a lawsuit, garnishment or foreclosure? Mark it on the form so the attorney knows it's urgent.
Free debt relief review
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How it works
One short form. No cost to you, and nothing gets filed without your decision.
Tell us about your debt
A few questions about what you owe, your income and what's happening right now.
We look for a local match
Your request goes to a bankruptcy attorney in our network who practices in your state.
Get a clear answer
The attorney explains your options. You decide whether to hire them and whether to file.
Debt problems a bankruptcy attorney can help with
Choose what's weighing on you most to start your review.
The basics
Chapter 7 or Chapter 13?
Most people who file choose one of these two. An attorney can tell you which fits.
| Chapter 7 | Chapter 13 | |
|---|---|---|
| What it does | Discharges most unsecured debt, such as credit cards and medical bills. | Reorganizes your debts into a court-approved repayment plan. |
| Typical length | Often about 4 months from filing to discharge. | A plan that lasts 3 to 5 years. |
| Who qualifies | Based on a means test that compares your income with your state's median. | People with regular income whose debts are under the federal limits. |
| Your property | Exempt property is protected. Non-exempt property may be sold. | You generally keep your property while you make plan payments. |
| Often a fit when | Income is limited and most of your debt is unsecured. | You're behind on a mortgage or car loan and want to catch up. |
§ 362
The automatic stay
Once you file, most collection has to stop, including calls, lawsuits, garnishments and foreclosure sales. There are exceptions.
180 days
Credit counseling first
You must complete a credit counseling course from an approved agency within 180 days before you file.
§ 523
Some debts usually stay
Most student loans, child support, alimony and many recent taxes usually can't be discharged.
10 years
Credit reporting
A Chapter 7 can stay on your credit report for up to 10 years, a Chapter 13 for up to 7.
General information about federal bankruptcy law, not legal advice. Exemptions and income limits vary by state.
Questions people ask
Does it cost anything to use BankruptcysLawyer.com?
No. Our service is free for you. Participating attorneys pay to be part of our network.
How much does a bankruptcy attorney charge?
Many charge a flat fee for Chapter 7. Chapter 13 fees are often paid partly through the repayment plan. There's also a court filing fee. Ask for every fee in writing.
Will I lose my house or car?
Not necessarily. Exemptions protect a certain amount of property, and Chapter 13 can help you catch up on missed payments.
Can I file without a lawyer?
You can, but mistakes can lead to a dismissed case or lost property. Many bankruptcy attorneys offer a free first consultation.
Will my employer find out?
Bankruptcy filings are public records, but employers aren't usually notified unless they're a creditor or a wage garnishment is involved. Federal law bars public and private employers from firing you just for filing.
Is BankruptcysLawyer.com a law firm?
No. We're a free attorney matching service. We don't give legal advice, and submitting a request doesn't create an attorney-client relationship.
Find out what your options are.
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