How it works

From first call to fresh start

Most of our cases follow the same six steps. We tell you which one you're on, and what comes next, the whole way through.

01
Step 1: Call or fill in the form
We ask a few questions about your income and your debts to see if you qualify for our help. It takes about ten minutes.
02
Step 2: Meet with an attorney
Bring what papers you have. We go through everything you owe, explain your options, including ones that aren't bankruptcy, and give you a plan.
03
Step 3: Take the counseling course
The law requires a short credit counseling course before you file. It's online or by phone, and many providers waive the fee if you can't pay.
04
Step 4: We prepare and file your case
We fill in the forms with you and file them. From that moment, most collection, garnishment and foreclosure has to stop.
05
Step 5: Meet the trustee
About a month later, you answer a few questions from the trustee under oath, usually by phone or video. We prepare you and we're there.
06
Step 6: Finish and get your discharge
You take a second short course on budgeting. In a Chapter 7, the discharge usually follows a few months after filing; in a Chapter 13, when the plan is done.

Questions about the process

Usually not. Employers aren't notified of a bankruptcy filing unless your wages are already being garnished, and then only so it stops.

Once we file, collectors have to stop calling you. If one doesn't, tell us.

Don't stop paying anything before you talk to us. Some debts, like a car loan you want to keep, need to stay current.

You can, but mistakes can cost you property or the whole case. That's why we offer this help free to people who qualify.

It's a phone call, and it costs nothing.

Our help is free for households that qualify. The court's filing fee is separate; the court can waive it or let you pay it in installments.