이 글은 일반적인 법률 정보 제공을 목적으로 작성되었습니다. 개별 사건에 대한 법률 조언이 아니며, 구체적인 법적 사안은 자격을 갖춘 법률 전문가와 상담하시기 바랍니다.
Learn how bankruptcy filing works in the U.S., what types are available, and what steps to expect from start to finish.
Bankruptcy is a federal legal process that allows individuals and businesses to get relief from debts they cannot repay. A successful bankruptcy filing can discharge certain debts, pause collection actions, and give you a financial fresh start. Because bankruptcy law is governed primarily by federal statute, the core rules apply nationwide — though some details, like exemptions, vary by state.
Certain debts generally survive bankruptcy, including:
A Chapter 7 bankruptcy stays on your credit report for 10 years; Chapter 13 for 7 years. While this impacts your credit score, many people begin rebuilding credit within a year or two of filing.
A: You can file without an attorney (called "pro se" filing), but bankruptcy law is complex. Many people benefit from professional legal guidance, especially for Chapter 13 or business cases.
A: In most cases, yes. The automatic stay that takes effect immediately upon filing halts most garnishments, though exceptions apply (e.g., child support).
A: It depends on your state's homestead exemption, the equity in your home, and which chapter you file. Chapter 13 is often used specifically to save a home from foreclosure.
A: Chapter 7 typically concludes in 3–6 months. Chapter 13 takes 3–5 years to complete due to the repayment plan.
A: Yes. Married couples may file a joint petition, which can be cost-effective and simplify the process when debts are shared.
Disclaimer: This article provides general legal information only and does not constitute legal advice. Bankruptcy laws and exemptions vary by state, and individual circumstances differ. Consult a licensed bankruptcy attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Need to understand your options faster? ROY offers free AI-powered case analysis to help you assess your situation in minutes.
Before filing, confirm which chapter you qualify for. Chapter 7 requires passing a means test based on your income versus the state median. Chapter 13 requires a steady income and debt below certain limits set by federal law.
Federal law requires you to complete an approved credit counseling course within 180 days before filing. Keep your completion certificate — you will need to submit it with your petition.
Collect documentation including:
File your bankruptcy petition and supporting schedules with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in your district. You will pay a filing fee (amounts vary by chapter). Once filed, an automatic stay immediately goes into effect, halting most collection calls, lawsuits, and wage garnishments.
You must attend a short hearing — called the 341 meeting — where the trustee and any creditors may ask questions about your finances. This is not a court trial; it typically lasts only a few minutes.
After filing, you must finish an approved debtor education course before receiving a discharge.
If everything is in order, the court issues a discharge order, eliminating eligible debts. Chapter 7 discharges typically occur within 3–6 months. Chapter 13 discharge comes after completing the repayment plan.
* 위 수치는 ROY AI의 유사 사건 분석 기반 추정치입니다. 개별 사건의 결과와 다를 수 있으며, 법률적 조언이나 결과 보장이 아닙니다.
지금 상황을 입력하면 AI가 쟁점을 정리하고, 유사 사례 기반 결과 분포와 전문 로펌 연결까지 한 번에 제공합니다.
이 문서는 일반적인 법률 정보 제공 목적으로 작성되었으며, 개별 사건에 대한 법률 자문, 법적 조언, 또는 결과 보장이 아닙니다. 구체적인 법적 사안에 대해서는 반드시 자격을 갖춘 법률 전문가와 상담하시기 바랍니다. ROY Legal Insights는 정보 제공 서비스이며, 법무법인이 아닙니다. 최초 발행일: 2026.08.16.