The Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005 mandated debtors who file for bankruptcy protection to complete an approved credit counseling program within 180 days before they file. Debtors must also complete a debtor education course after filing, but before discharge, to have their debts discharged.
Only pre-approved courses are eligible. The course, which may be attended in person, over the phone or on the internet will usually last about 60-90 minutes and consist of, at minimum, an evaluation of your personal financial situation, a discussion of alternatives to bankruptcy, and the development of a personal budget plan. Please talk to your attorney about how you may be eligible to receive the service free of charge.
Only pre approved courses are eligible. This course usually lasts a bit longer than the Credit Counseling course (about 2 hours) but again, may be attended in perso, over the phone or on the internet. This course will discuss developing a budget, managing finances and using credit and other resources wisely. Again, please talk to your attorney as to how to qualify for a free course.
Following is a list of approved agencies for the Middle District of Florida: Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Central Florida and The Florida Gulf Coast, Inc., Consumer Financial Education Foundation of America, Inc.,
Advisory Credit Management, Inc., Consumer Debt Counselors,Family Life Resources, Inc.,InCharge Education Foundation, Inc.
