The bankruptcy process timeline shows every step from credit counseling through discharge for Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 filings. Select your chapter to see the full process.
Select Your Bankruptcy Chapter
Chapter 7
Liquidation bankruptcy. Eliminates most unsecured debt in 4-6 months. Must pass means test. No repayment plan.
Chapter 13
Reorganization bankruptcy. 3-5 year repayment plan. Can save home from foreclosure. No means test required.
Legal disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only. Bankruptcy law is complex and state-specific. Consult a licensed bankruptcy attorney before filing.
How to Choose Between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13
The bankruptcy process differs significantly between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. The right choice depends on your income, assets, debt type, and goals.
Chapter 7: Fast, Clean Discharge
Chapter 7 eliminates most unsecured debt (credit cards, medical bills, personal loans) in 4-6 months. You must pass the means test — income below your state's median qualifies automatically. A trustee may liquidate non-exempt assets to pay creditors, but most Chapter 7 filers are "no-asset" cases where all assets are protected by exemptions. You cannot discharge student loans, child support, alimony, recent taxes, or criminal fines.
Chapter 13: Repay Over Time, Save Your Home
Chapter 13 requires a 3-5 year repayment plan paying back some or all of your debts based on your disposable income. The key advantage: you can catch up on mortgage arrears through the plan and save your home from foreclosure. You keep all assets. At plan completion, remaining eligible debt is discharged. Chapter 13 stays on your credit for 7 years vs. 10 years for Chapter 7.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this bankruptcy process timeline free?
Yes, completely free with no signup required.
How long does Chapter 7 bankruptcy take?
Chapter 7 typically takes 4-6 months from filing to discharge. The process includes a 341 meeting of creditors about 30 days after filing, a 60-day objection period, and then discharge. Most debtors are in and out in under 6 months.
How long does Chapter 13 bankruptcy take?
Chapter 13 requires a 3-5 year repayment plan. You make monthly payments to a trustee who distributes funds to creditors according to a court-approved plan. After completing all plan payments, you receive a discharge of remaining eligible debt.
How long does bankruptcy stay on my credit report?
Chapter 7 stays on your credit report for 10 years from the filing date. Chapter 13 stays for 7 years from the filing date. However, many people begin rebuilding credit within 1-2 years of discharge through secured cards and responsible credit use.
What is the means test for bankruptcy?
The means test determines if you qualify for Chapter 7. If your income is below your state's median income, you qualify automatically. If above, you must pass a calculation comparing disposable income to what you'd repay in Chapter 13. Those who fail the means test must use Chapter 13 instead.
Can bankruptcy stop foreclosure?
Filing bankruptcy triggers an automatic stay that immediately halts most collection actions including foreclosure, wage garnishments, and creditor calls. Chapter 13 can allow you to catch up on mortgage arrears over the repayment plan period, potentially saving your home. Chapter 7 only delays foreclosure temporarily.