Do I need credit counseling if I file bankruptcy?

If you’re filing bankruptcy to wipe away your debt you’ll need to take two educational courses. A credit counseling course before filing your case and a financial management course after filing. Written by Attorney Andrea Wimmer . Is credit counseling required for Chapter 7? How do I get a certificate of credit counseling? How long is it good for?

How much does bankruptcy counseling cost?

For instance, InCharge Bankruptcy Counseling charges $25 for pre-filing counseling online and $15 for its online pre-discharge course. Many credit counseling agencies will waive the fees if they determine you can't pay given your household budget. Be sure to get any fees in writing before starting a pre-filing or pre-discharge session.

Do I need a bankruptcy counseling service?

You’ll also need to take two educational courses. One before and one after filing bankruptcy. This is required by the Bankruptcy Code . There is usually a small cost for this counseling service, but bankruptcy law requires that anyone who can't afford to pay the cost can apply for a fee waiver.