Get Expert Bankruptcy Help: Your Questions Answered

By Talk About Debt Team
Reviewed by Ben Jackson
Last Updated: February 17, 2026
3 min read
The Bottom Line

Bankruptcy offers a legitimate path to eliminate overwhelming debt and get a fresh start. Chapter 7 can discharge most unsecured debts in 3-4 months, protecting your essential assets through exemptions. Professional bankruptcy attorneys can evaluate your situation for free and guide you through the process.

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You need help with bankruptcy. You want answers fast. You’re in the right place.

Many families struggle with overwhelming debt. Finding affordable help can feel impossible. You have options to get relief.

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Find out if Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 is right for your situation. Get expert guidance on eliminating your debt and protecting your assets. Free consultation with no obligation.

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How Bankruptcy Can Help You Get a Fresh Start

Bankruptcy gives you a chance to eliminate crushing debt. Chapter 7 bankruptcy can discharge most unsecured debts in months.

You can wipe out credit card balances, medical bills, and personal loans. Your wages stop getting garnished. Collection calls end immediately.

Qualifying for Chapter 7 depends on your income and expenses. Most people with limited income can file successfully.

Understanding Your Bankruptcy Options

Two main types of bankruptcy exist for individuals:

  • Chapter 7: Eliminates most unsecured debt in 3-4 months
  • Chapter 13: Creates a 3-5 year repayment plan

Chapter 7 works best when you have limited income. Chapter 13 helps if you need to catch up on house or car payments.

A bankruptcy attorney can evaluate your situation. They’ll recommend the best path forward for your circumstances.

Getting Professional Bankruptcy Guidance

You don’t have to navigate bankruptcy alone. Professional help makes the process smoother and less stressful.

Bankruptcy attorneys understand the complex forms and requirements. They protect your rights throughout the entire process.

You can speak with a bankruptcy attorney for free to discuss your options. Many offer consultations at no cost or obligation.

Is Bankruptcy Right for Your Situation?

Bankruptcy isn’t the only debt relief option. You should consider all alternatives first.

Debt settlement might work if you have some money saved. Credit counseling helps if you can afford reduced payments.

Bankruptcy makes sense when:

  • Your debt exceeds your annual income
  • Creditors are suing you or garnishing wages
  • You can’t make minimum payments anymore
  • Collection calls are affecting your mental health

What Happens After Filing Bankruptcy

The bankruptcy process follows clear steps. Understanding them reduces anxiety and uncertainty.

You’ll complete credit counseling before filing. Then you submit your bankruptcy petition to the court.

A trustee reviews your case and holds a meeting. Most Chapter 7 cases finish within 90-120 days.

Your credit score will drop initially. But you can start rebuilding immediately after discharge.

Protecting Your Assets During Bankruptcy

Many people fear losing everything in bankruptcy. Most filers keep all their property.

Bankruptcy exemptions protect essential assets. You can usually keep your:

  • Primary residence (up to equity limits)
  • One vehicle per household member
  • Household goods and clothing
  • Retirement accounts and pensions

Exemption amounts vary by state. An attorney knows your state’s specific protections.

Common Bankruptcy Myths Debunked

Misconceptions about bankruptcy prevent people from getting help. You deserve accurate information.

Myth: Bankruptcy ruins your credit forever.
Truth: Most people rebuild credit within 2-3 years.

Myth: Everyone will know you filed.
Truth: Bankruptcy is public record, but rarely noticed by acquaintances.

Myth: You’ll lose your job.
Truth: Employers cannot fire you for filing bankruptcy.

Myth: All debts get discharged.
Truth: Student loans, recent taxes, and child support usually survive.

Taking Your First Step Toward Relief

Starting the bankruptcy process feels overwhelming. Breaking it into small steps makes it manageable.

Gather your financial documents first. Collect pay stubs, tax returns, and debt statements.

Talk to a bankruptcy attorney about your situation. They’ll explain whether Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 fits better.

Most attorneys offer free initial consultations. You can learn your options without spending money upfront.

Relief from crushing debt is closer than you think. Professional guidance makes the path clearer and faster.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy?

Chapter 7 eliminates most unsecured debts in 3-4 months without a repayment plan. Chapter 13 creates a 3-5 year repayment plan and works best when you need to catch up on mortgage or car payments while keeping those assets.

How much does it cost to file bankruptcy?

The court filing fee for Chapter 7 is $338. Attorney fees typically range from $1,000-$3,000, though many attorneys offer payment plans. You may qualify for a fee waiver if your income is below 150% of the poverty line.

Can I keep my house and car if I file bankruptcy?

Most people keep their home and vehicle through bankruptcy exemptions. You can protect equity in your home up to your state's exemption limit. You can usually keep one vehicle per household member if the equity is within exemption limits.

How long does bankruptcy stay on my credit report?

Chapter 7 bankruptcy remains on your credit report for 10 years from the filing date. Chapter 13 stays for 7 years. However, most people see credit score improvement within 12-24 months as they rebuild their credit history.

What debts cannot be eliminated in bankruptcy?

Student loans, recent tax debts, child support, alimony, and court-ordered fines typically cannot be discharged. Debts from fraud, willful injury to others, or drunk driving injuries also survive bankruptcy.