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The credit counseling requirement was one of the more talked-about Chapter 7 reforms in the last round of legislative updates. Now, almost a decade later, what does this prerequisite mean in practical terms? Does the average consumer filer even notice this requirement?

Credit counseling background

The main reason that legislators took up bankruptcy reform in 2005 was that consumer bankruptcy had finally lost its stigma as a financial failure and was instead seen as a logical alternative to repaying an excessive amount of debt. That attitude was good news for consumers, but very bad news for credit card companies and other moneylenders.

So, the moneylenders lobbied Congress to change the rules and make bankruptcy harder to file. The idea was to create obstacles that made bankruptcy less attractive.

Credit counseling requirement

Beginning in 2005, Chapter 7 filers were required to attend and complete a certified credit counseling class, which, at least in theory, delved into the reasons behind the contemplated bankruptcy filing. Ten or fifteen years ago, when the Internet was still in its infancy, speaking with a licensed credit counselor still probably meant an afternoon off from work for a trip to someone’s office.

Today, there are literally hundreds of providers approved by the Florida bankruptcy courts. Typically, the approved classes are offered online in both English and Spanish. There is still a nominal investment of time (about 30 minutes) and money (about $30) involved.

After your bankruptcy is filed, there is a second class to take. The debtor education class may be taken in the same manner as the pre-filing course.  Faro & Crowder PA sends clients to the Dave Ramsey debtor education class.  Clients rave about the class because they actually learn to change the way they live and free themselves from the cycle of debt and insolvency.

Don’t put it off. To get started on your Chapter 7 Bankruptcy today, contact our office located in Melbourne, Florida.

Speak with an experienced Attorney at Faro & Crowder, PA

The above are just a few examples of the types of legal proceedings that are not halted by the automatic stay. If you are interested in learning more about how a bankruptcy filing will impact your debt or the lawsuits pending against you, contact Faro Crowder, PA to schedule an appointment.  Our office is located in Melbourne, Florida.  We serve all of Brevard County and the Space Coast with Bankruptcy and Debt Relief services.

The information on this blog or any blog is not intended as, and should not be taken as, legal advice.

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