When you've committed yourself to do what's needed to declare a chapter 7 bankruptcy, you may be pleased at how quickly it happens. The bankruptcy process can be over within as little as a few months depending on your case. Once finished, you can take steps to assure that your financial fresh start changes the way you think about things like credit, budgeting, credit scores, and more. It might help filers to get a preview of what to look forward to, so read on to find your path to financial freedom, bit by bit.

Get Ready to File – Your bankruptcy attorney will need some information to work with while they prepare your case. Be ready to provide the following to your attorney:

• A complete list of everyone you owe money to along with the addresses, account numbers, and balances owed.
• Pay stubs or bank statements that show your income.
• A list of your assets such as your home and vehicles.
• Your most recent tax year return.
• If you have been ordered to pay child support or spousal support, you will need a copy of the order from the judge.

Take the Credit Counseling Class – Before you can file, you must show proof that you've completed a credit counseling class. You can take it up to 180 days (six months) before you file. This class is a budget that helps to show the trustee that your financial situation is bad enough to allow you to file for bankruptcy.

File for Bankruptcy – Once your attorney has assembled the bankruptcy package as required, you should review it for accuracy and completeness. Sign the form only if it is accurate because you are signing it under oath. Your attorney will file the paperwork at the closest federal courthouse.

Attend the Creditor's Meeting – This meeting is your official court appearance and is often over in about two minutes. You will be sworn in and testify that you have read your bankruptcy paperwork, that it is accurate, that you have filed your taxes, and answer a few other easy questions.

Take the Debtor Education Class – This class must be completed before your bankruptcy can be final. It focuses on the prevention of making the mistakes that led to a bankruptcy filing.

The Final Discharge – Once you receive the final paperwork in the mail, your bankruptcy is over and you are free of debt and ready to do a better job of taking care of your finances.

Reach out to local bankruptcy lawyer services for more help.