Bankruptcy COUNSELING

Pre-Filing Bankruptcy Counseling

Prior to filing for personal bankruptcy, individuals are required to complete a pre-filing bankruptcy counseling session. This provision of federal bankruptcy law ensures that individuals understand all of their options and that they have the necessary knowledge and tools to develop a sound financial plan for the future.

Advantage Credit Counseling Service (ACCS) is approved* by the Executive Office of the United States Trustees (EOUST) to provide the required pre-filing counseling and issue certificates in all judicial districts in the following states:

Keep in mind that counselors may not offer you legal advice. Your counselor will provide you with a broad overview of the federal bankruptcy law; however, the key purpose of bankruptcy counseling is to develop a picture of your current financial situation and to give you the knowledge you need to determine if there are options other than bankruptcy that will enable you to eliminate your debts in a reasonable time period and to maintain a balanced budget. This counseling will also get you started on building a financial plan for your future.

Bankruptcy Certificates will be issued:

• At the conclusion of the counseling session
• The required certificate of completion will be mailed to you and, if applicable, faxed to your attorney.

What you will gain from this session:

• A determination of your net income and expenses for an average month.
• Ways to balance your expenses against your income.
• A personalized action plan to provide you with information on:
  • Ways to increase your income and/or cut back on expenses.
  • State and national resources that may be of assistance.
  • Helpful money management strategies.
  • Possible options for dealing with your debt.

What is the Cost for the Counseling Session?

• $50 if you wish to have a Telephone or In-Person counseling session.
• $30 if you use the Agency's Online Bankruptcy Counseling module.
• A debit card or money order is the only acceptable form of payment. Personal checks and credit cards are not accepted
• If you are a married couple filing a joint bankruptcy, each of you must complete the required bankruptcy counseling session in its entirety. There are no additional charges for a married couple if both parties participate in the same counseling session. If you choose to complete the counseling in separate sessions, each person is charged individually.
• In limited circumstances, you may be eligible to have this fee waived if you meet certain income guidelines. If you believe you may qualify to have the fee waived, contact us toll-free at 1-866-699-2227. Counseling is offered regardless of the participant's ability to pay.

*ACCS is approved by the Executive Office of the Unites States Trustee to issue certificates in compliance with the Bankruptcy Code. Approval does not endorse or assure the quality of the Agency's services.