For the first time in history, a federal law,
the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention &
Consumer Protection Act of 2005, includes
provisions for financial counseling and
education. Our agency is “Approved to
issue certificates in compliance with the
Bankruptcy Code. Approval does not
endorse or assure the quality of an
agency’s services.”

Pre-filing Counseling
During the six months prior to filing,
a consumer must receive budget and
credit counseling. To ensure your
privacy, a certified counselor will
meet with you or talk with you over
the telephone. During the session, the
counselor will work with you to develop
a thorough budget analysis. The counselor will explain the bankruptcy process, the implications of bankruptcy and alternatives to bankruptcy. The counselor will not provide legal advice or counsel. The fee for this counseling is $50. The fee may be waived for those who meet the criteria for extreme financial distress.

Pre-Discharge Education
Before a bankruptcy is discharged, a consumer must now complete a financial management course. The course will include the following topics: budget development including short term and long term financial goals, money management, the wise use of credit, consumer information about resources for consumer assistance and consumer protection laws and regulations. The fee for this course is $50. The fee may be waived for those who meet the criteria for extreme financial distress.