Bankruptcy Credit Counseling and Certificates

Filing for bankruptcy is a difficult decision, and many experts consider it to be a last resort. Before moving forward, be sure to consider your other options, such as a debt management program.

If you have already explored other options, and have decided to file for bankruptcy, you are likely looking forward to a clean slate and a fresh start. At Clearpoint, we want to make this transition as smooth as possible for you via our bankruptcy counseling and education. US Bankruptcy Code requires that consumers who are filing for bankruptcy complete two forms of credit counseling, called pre-bankruptcy credit counseling (taken first) and pre-discharge debtor education (taken second). Clearpoint provides both types of counseling, and our program includes the following benefits:

  • self-paced online program
  • holistic, education-focused approach
  • quick certificate turnaround

Our goal is to make this a convenient and educational experience for you, so that you are fully prepared for the bankruptcy process and can rebuild your financial well-being after bankruptcy.

How it Works

If it sounds like our bankruptcy counseling might benefit you, watch the video below or read on to find out more about how it works.

Watch this brief introduction to our bankruptcy counseling service.

 

1. Consult with your attorney (not required)

If you don’t yet have a bankruptcy attorney, that’s OK! Pre-bankruptcy counseling is required before you can even begin your filing, so you may earn your pre-bankruptcy credit counseling certificate with us before working with an attorney.

If you already have a bankruptcy attorney, Clearpoint can work with them for a seamless experience. Simply tell your attorney that you would like to use our service, and send them to this page.

If you’ve already been referred here by your attorney, rest assured knowing that we are committed to providing a smooth experience, and that your counseling records will be available to them.

2. Complete the self-paced online program with counselor support

You will need to register for the counseling program, and move through the material at your own pace. The pre-bankruptcy credit counseling will require you to submit financial information, which you will then review with a counselor. The pre-discharge debtor education course will require you to study a variety of material and complete a pre- and post-test.

In both programs, an NFCC certified credit counselor will be available to help you through the process or to provide specific advice about your financial situation. We are available to support you: Monday-Thursday, 8am-8pm (CST), Friday, 9am-6pm (CST), excluding major holidays. Simply click “Chat” when you are ready. After all, this isn’t just about filing for bankruptcy—it’s about setting yourself up for future financial success. The combination of course material and counselor feedback will teach you all you need to know about budgeting, saving and being prepared for future financial emergencies.

3. Receive your certificate of completion

You’ll need certificates to show that you’ve completed the counseling and education. We provide these quickly, unlike some providers who keep you waiting for extended periods of time. Pre-bankruptcy credit counseling certificates are provided instantly upon completion, and pre-discharge debtor education certificates are processed within 24 business hours.

Ready to Start?

Earn your bankruptcy certificates in our self-paced online program. Choose a service below to get started.

Pre-Bankruptcy Credit Counseling Pre-Discharge Debtor Education

Why Choose Clearpoint?

If you’re thinking about filing for bankruptcy, here are some unique benefits to working with Clearpoint:

  • Nonprofit. You can trust us to provide objective advice that benefits you, the consumer.
  • Education focused. Since your financial well-being is our top priority, our counseling model rests on teaching you how to manage your money and providing you with solutions to your individual financial situation.
  • BBB accredited. We’re a system-wide accredited business of the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating.

Some Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions (and answers!) about our bankruptcy counseling services.

How much does bankruptcy counseling cost?

The cost for these services can vary based on a few factors, but you should expect to pay $50 per household for pre-bankruptcy counseling and $50 per household for pre-discharge debtor education. Consumers who are below certain income thresholds and/or working with legal aid organizations may receive free or reduced-price service. The process for receiving a fee waiver is the same for each service. Read more about fee waivers here.

Is this service offered in Spanish?

Yes, both services are available in English and Spanish.

How long does the counseling take?

Pre-bankruptcy credit counseling takes about one hour. Pre-discharge debtor education, which involves more reading and study, takes a minimum of two hours.

Get Started

Ready to take one of our courses? Select the appropriate course below, and you’ll be taken to a page to read more about the service, agree to the terms and conditions and get started.

Start Pre-Bankruptcy Credit Counseling Start Pre-Discharge Debtor Education

Additional Resources

Here are some other articles you may find helpful while researching about bankruptcy counseling or the bankruptcy process in general.

Ready to Start?

Earn your bankruptcy certificates in our self-paced online program. Choose a service below to get started.

Pre-Bankruptcy Credit Counseling Pre-Discharge Debtor Education

Get Started

Earn your bankruptcy certificates in our self-paced online program.

Pre-Bankruptcy

or

Pre-Discharge