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Family and Consumer Sciences

Ohio State University Extension

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Bankruptcy

About Bankruptcy

When federal law changed in 2005, anyone filing for bankruptcy had new requirements to fulfill. Now, even before filing, you must complete a U.S. Trustee-approved pre-bankruptcy credit counseling session. If after taking the class you decide bankruptcy is the right option, you have 180 days after the session to file. A means test will determine whether you file under Chapter 7 or Chapter 13. Before the bankruptcy is discharged, you must take an approved debtor education class.

Many people facing financial turmoil wonder if they really need to hire a lawyer to get them through the process. The law does not require that you hire an attorney, but bankruptcy is complicated and will have a long-term impact on your life, so seeking legal assistance is usually advised.

Below are some links with helpful information.

Links

Government Sites

Associations

  • National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys
    nacba.org
  • American Bankruptcy Institute Consumer Education Center
    Includes FAQs about bankruptcy.
    bankruptcyresources.org

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