FAQs

How much does pre-file credit counseling and debtor education cost?

  • Pre-Filing Online Counseling $25 | Telephonic $50
  • Pre-Discharge Online Debtor Education $15

Married couples filing jointly only pay one fee provided they are counseled together.


Can the sessions be completed on a smartphone or tablet?

You can take Pre-File Credit Counseling and Pre-Discharge Debtor Education on your smartphone or tablet.


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Is InCharge approved to issue certificates that satisfy the court requirements for a bankruptcy proceeding?

Yes, InCharge Debt Solutions is approved to issue certificates evidencing completion of personal financial management instructional counseling sessions in compliance with the Bankruptcy Code. Approval does not endorse or assure the quality of a provider’s services.


What forms of payment do you accept?

Payments are accepted online or over the phone. We accept major credit cards and debit cards.


How long does it take?

The pre-filing credit counseling session takes a minimum of 60 minutes to complete. The pre-discharge debtor education takes a minimum of 2 hours. The time requirements conform to the EOUST (Executive Office for U.S. Trustees) program guidelines.


Where does the client go for pre-file counseling and pre-discharge education?

The client can be counseled online at www.personalfinanceeducation.com or by calling 866-729-0049 to sign up for the telephonic sessions.


When is the certificate of completion available?

Clients receiving the online pre-filing credit counseling are required to contact us after completing the online session to get certified. The certificate is delivered via the client’s preferred method of delivery immediately after the call. (Please note: if it’s a joint filing, we will need to speak with each individual to issue both certificates). Clients taking online Pre-Discharge Debtor Education will automatically receive their certificate within 24 to 48 business hours of course completion via their preferred method of delivery.


Who will receive the certificate of completion?

The certificate(s) can be sent to the client and attorney via email, fax or US postal service. These preferences are specified by the client during the registration process.


Can joint bankruptcy filers have a counseling session together?

Yes


Can another person purchase pre-file counseling or pre-discharge debtor education for me?

No, however, you may obtain assistance from a friend, family member or attorney.


Can another person attend the pre-file counseling or pre-discharge bankruptcy education session for me?

No, however, you may obtain assistance from a friend, family member or attorney.


How long is my certificate good for?

Pre-Filing Credit Counseling – The certificate expires 180 days from the date the counseling was completed. Pre-Discharge Debtor Education- In most cases, the certificate needs to be presented in court within 45 days of the original filing date. For further explanation on this matter, it’s best to speak to your attorney.


Do I need to follow up with my attorney once my certificate has been sent?

Once the certification process has been completed, InCharge Debt Solutions will fax, mail or email a copy of the certificate to the individual(s) as requested by the client during the registration. The client is solely responsible for following up with his/her attorney to ensure that the certificate has been received. InCharge Debt Solutions will not be held liable for certificates that are lost in transition; however, we will resend the certificate at the client’s or attorney’s request.


How do I rebuild credit after bankruptcy?

Visit After Bankruptcy for information on how to rebuild your credit and pay off debts not discharged in bankruptcy.