Credit Counseling

• Before filing Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, the debtor must complete an approved credit counseling session.
  
  

Session Formats

• The credit counseling session runs like an individual class or tutorial session. However, it can be completed online, in-person, and sometimes even over the phone.
  
  

Certification

• Once the session is completed, the debtor will receive proof that he finished the requirement. A copy of the certificate awarded is required by the bankruptcy court to consider bankruptcy petitions.
  
  

Cost

• Most credit counseling sessions cost about twenty-five to fifty dollars, though some could run up to one-hundred-dollars.
  
  

Chapter 13 Filers

• Chapter 13 filers must also complete an additional credit counseling session before finishing their repayment plan. This aims to help debtors learn new money management skills.