Search the site

Your Chapter 13 Debtor Education Requirement

What You Must Do after Filing Chapter 13 Bankruptcy to Take Control of Your Debts

With the 2005 changes in bankruptcy law, there is so much information to sort out and new requirements that you are responsible for completing. Sometimes, this can be a bit overwhelming.

At Chapter13.Me, we know that choosing a debtor information course is a fundamental component to your bankruptcy filing. We have compiled information to help you take control of your financial situation and gain a fresh start.

Did you know that we can also connect you with a nearby bankruptcy lawyer who can help you meet the new Chapter 13 bankruptcy requirements? Simply fill out our free bankruptcy case evaluation form or call 1 (888) 632-0504, and we’ll connect you with a local bankruptcy attorney as soon as possible.

What Is the Purpose of the Chapter 13 Debtor Education Course?

The objective with the debtor education course is mainly to give you the best possible education to begin your fresh start after your Chapter 13 bankruptcy discharge. Make sure that your course covers the following topics:

• financial goal setting;
• developing a spending plan;
• record-keeping;
• insurance;
• credit & credit reports;
• consumer resources; and
• consumer protection laws. 

You must receive certification in this course after your bankruptcy lawyer has filed your Chapter 13 bankruptcy petition, but before you receive the discharge from the court. You can complete the course in three ways:

• by phone;
• in person; or
• online.

Where Can You Find An Approved Debtor Education Course?

Start Fresh Today offers an online and telephonic debtor education course you can take, while the U.S. Trustee’s Web site can also give you a listing of other approved courses.

How Much May the Debtor Education Course Cost You?

The cost of the course will vary, depending on where you live. You should expect to pay between $50.00 and $100.00 to complete this course.  Some courses may even offer scholarships to assist those who are unable to pay for the course. To determine whether a particular course offers scholarships, just ask when you contact the appropriate office.

Of course, you can always purchase an approved debtor education course at Start Fresh Today, where the online course is $49 and the telephonic course is $59.

Is This Course Different from the Credit Counseling Briefing?

Yes. The Credit Counseling and Debtor Courses are two separate and distinct requirements under the new bankruptcy rules. Upon the completion of each course, you will be issued separate certificates. Keep in mind that the Credit Counseling Briefing is a pre-filing bankruptcy requirement and the Debtor Education Course must be finished after you file for bankruptcy, but before the actual discharge.

Chart Your Course with the Guidance of a Local Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Attorney

If you are in need of further assistance with your Chapter 13 bankruptcy filing, we can help you find a local bankruptcy attorney for you to discuss your situation.

Just take a few seconds to complete our free bankruptcy case evaluation form or call 1 (888) 632-0504, and we’ll connect you with a local bankruptcy lawyer as soon as possible.

The above summary is not legal advice. Laws may have changed since our last update. For the latest information on bankruptcy laws, speak to a local bankruptcy lawyer in your state.

PAID ATTORNEY ADVERTISEMENT: This Web site is a group advertisement. It is not a lawyer referral service or prepaid legal services plan. Chapter13.me is not a law firm. The sole basis for the inclusion of the participating lawyers or law firms is the payment of a fee for exclusive geographical advertising rights. Chapter13.me does not endorse or recommend any lawyer or law firm who participates in the network. It does not make any representation and has not made any judgment as to the qualifications, expertise or credentials of any participating lawyer. The information contained herein is not legal advice. Any information you submit to Chapter13.me may not be protected by attorney-client privilege. All photos are of models and do not depict clients. All case evaluations are performed by participating attorneys. An attorney responsible for the content of this Site is Kevin W. Chern, Esq., licensed in Illinois with offices at 25 East Washington, Suite 510, Chicago, Illinois 60602. To see the attorney in your area who is responsible for this advertisement, please click here.

If you live in Alabama, Florida, Missouri, New York or Wyoming, please click here for additional information.

By an Act of Congress and the President of the United States, we are a federal Debt Relief Agency. Attorneys and/or law firms promoted through this Web site are also federally designated Debt Relief Agencies. They help people file for relief under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. Disclosures Required Under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code.