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Research which chapter of bankruptcy you qualify for based on your financial situation and which debts can be discharged.

Compile a comprehensive list of assets, debts, income, and expenses to provide an accurate financial picture to the court.

Complete a credit counseling course from an approved agency within 180 days before filing.

Select between Chapter 7, 11, 12, or 13 bankruptcy based on eligibility, goals, and type of debts.

Complete the necessary forms which detail your financial status, including the bankruptcy petition, schedules, and statement of financial affairs.

Submit your completed forms to the bankruptcy court to initiate the bankruptcy process.

Immediately upon filing, an automatic stay is enforced, stopping most collection activities against you.

The court appoints a trustee to oversee your case, manage the sale of assets (if applicable), and distribute proceeds to creditors.

Participate in a meeting where creditors can question you about your financial status and the documents you've filed.

After filing, but before discharge, complete a financial management course from an approved agency.

Creditors or the trustee have the opportunity to object to your bankruptcy discharge.

Attend any necessary court hearings where the bankruptcy judge will resolve any issues raised by creditors or the trustee.

The trustee may sell any non-exempt property to pay back creditors as part of the bankruptcy process.

Develop a plan to repay debts over a 3 to 5-year period, to be approved by the court.

The bankruptcy court must approve the Chapter 13 repayment plan after reviewing its feasibility and fairness to creditors.

After completing the payment plan or liquidating assets, remaining dischargeable debts are eliminated.

The court enters a final decree, formally concluding the bankruptcy process and finalizing the discharge of eligible debts.

Once all procedures are completed and the judge issues a final decree, the bankruptcy case is officially closed.

Adopt sound financial practices to rebuild credit and avoid future financial distress.