Straight answers about bankruptcy and debt

No. A Chapter 7 stays on your report for up to ten years and a Chapter 13 for up to seven, but many people’s scores start climbing within a year, because the debts are gone.

Ask us before you change anything. Some payments, like a car you want to keep, should continue. Others may not need to.

Yes. Your spouse’s income still counts for the means test, but only your debts are discharged unless you file together.

It can be, depending on the amount and timing. Tell us on the first call; there is usually a way to plan around it.

Yes. Once the case is filed, creditors must stop collecting. If one keeps calling, tell us and we’ll deal with it.

The trustee confirms who you are and asks a few questions under oath about your paperwork. It usually takes less than ten minutes, and one of us is with you.

Yes. We may suggest moving it if it’s at the same bank as a card you owe on, so the bank can’t take money from it.

Usually. Landlords look at your income and recent history. A letter showing the discharge often helps.

Eight years between Chapter 7 discharges, with shorter waits for other combinations. We’ll check your dates.