What Happens After You File for Bankruptcy?

Filing for bankruptcy is a big step—but it’s also the beginning of something better. Once you file, you don’t just submit paperwork and wait. A legal process kicks in that protects you from creditors, evaluates your finances, and ultimately clears the path for a fresh start.

Here’s what you can expect after you file for bankruptcy.

⚖️ 1. The Automatic Stay Goes Into Effect Immediately

The moment your case is filed, the court issues an automatic stay—a powerful legal order that:

• Stops all collection calls
• Halts wage garnishments
• Delays or cancels foreclosures and repossessions
• Pauses pending lawsuits or judgments
  
  

📌 This gives you breathing room and immediate peace of mind.

📬 2. You’ll Get a Case Number and Court Documents

Your attorney will receive a case number, court assignment, and the name of your bankruptcy trustee. This information will also be sent to your creditors, notifying them that they must stop collection activity.

🧾 3. A Bankruptcy Trustee Is Assigned

The court assigns a bankruptcy trustee to review your case and ensure everything is in order. They’ll oversee the process and make sure creditors are treated fairly.

• In Chapter 7: The trustee may look for non-exempt assets to sell (though most people keep everything).
• In Chapter 13: The trustee will help structure and approve your 3–5 year repayment plan.
  
  

📆 4. You’ll Attend the 341 Meeting (Meeting of Creditors)

Roughly 30–45 days after filing, you’ll attend a Meeting of Creditors—also called a 341 hearing.

• It’s usually a 5–10 minute meeting with the trustee.
• Creditors can attend, but they rarely do.
• You’ll confirm your identity and answer basic questions under oath.

💡 It’s not in a courtroom, and your attorney will be with you.

🧠 5. You Must Complete a Financial Management Course

Before your case is discharged, you’ll need to take a brief post-filing financial education course (usually online). This ensures you understand budgeting and credit basics going forward.

📄 6. Your Debts Are Discharged (Wiped Out)

• Chapter 7: After about 3–6 months, qualifying debts (like credit cards, medical bills, personal loans) are officially discharged.
• Chapter 13: Once you successfully complete your repayment plan (3–5 years), any remaining qualifying debts are discharged.

You are now legally free of those debts.

📈 7. You Can Start Rebuilding Your Life and Credit

• You can start rebuilding credit within months.
• Secured credit cards, small installment loans, and on-time payments all help.
• You’ll likely get offers from lenders soon after your discharge—choose wisely.
  
  

💬 We’re Still Here After Filing

At Amerihope Alliance Legal Services, our commitment doesn’t stop when your case is filed. We’re here to walk with you through every step—filing, hearings, discharge, and beyond. Need help rebuilding your credit? Got questions after court? You’re not alone.

Bankruptcy isn’t the end—it’s the beginning of your comeback. Let us help you make it a strong one.