What is Involved in Credit Counseling For Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

As you may know, part of the eligibility requirements involve credit counseling. When filing a Missouri or Illinois Chapter 13, a debtor must take a credit counseling course before they file their case. Whether it is done on the internet or over the phone, it involves an informative discussion on bankruptcy and other alternatives. The counseling is done with a neutral third party agency that has been approved by the bankruptcy court.

So, why do you have to take the course? Isn't it pretty clear whether Chapter 13 is right for you by the time you are ready to file your case? Well, yes, but it certainly is helpful to get information from an agency that has no vested interest in whatever path you choose. You can then be confident that you made a positive and informed decision before your St. Louis, Missouri bankruptcy attorney files your case.

There is a second session that you must also take after you file your case called a "debtor education" course. The course is designed to teach you some tips and tricks to help you avoid another bankruptcy in the future. What a relief to have so many people looking out for your best interests!

Plus, by picking a really great St Louis Missouri or Fairview Heights Illinois bankruptcy attorney, you can rest assured that he or she will also want to help you understand the process and what your behavior should be afterward. How? By providing free articles, blogs, and books about having the getting back on your feet after bankruptcy!

Make sure you also have a bankruptcy attorney in St. Louis who is aware that a credit counseling course is required for you to get bankruptcy protection. Not only does it give you great information but your attorney also can't file your case without you having completed the first session. And if you don't complete the debtor education course after your case has been filed, your case can be dismissed without a discharge.

That means after all that work, time, and money that you put into your bankruptcy, you could still be without protection from foreclosure, credit card debt help, or relief from your creditors.

As you can see, there are a lot of little hurdles that you must jump in order to get Chapter 13 bankruptcy protection. While none of them are too complicated, if you miss just one, it could cost you your case. Now, I'm sure you can see how vital it is to have an experienced St Louis or Wentzville, Missouri bankruptcy attorney as opposed to one with limited experience filing cases!