BANKRUPTCY COUNSELING

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.