Pre-Filing Bankruptcy Counseling

We are happy you chose Family Life Services, Inc. dba Family Life Credit Services to begin your pre-filing bankruptcy counseling session using Counseling in Motion – BK Edition (developed by the American Center for Credit Education (ACCE)).  Our counselors are here to listen, answer your personal questions, and provide valuable information you need during this process.

What is Pre-Filing Bankruptcy Counseling?

Prior to filing for personal bankruptcy, individuals are required to complete a pre-filing bankruptcy counseling session. This provision of federal bankruptcy law ensures that individuals understand all of their options and that they have the necessary knowledge and tools to develop a sound financial plan for the future.

The Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005, which took effect on October 17, 2005, mandates that individuals filing for bankruptcy must undergo counseling prior to filing bankruptcy and a financial education course prior to the discharge of debts. Family Life Services, Inc. has applied for approval* by the Executive Office for US Trustees (EOUST) to provide pre-bankruptcy counseling in North Dakota, South Dakota and Minnesota.

*Approved to issue certificates in compliance with the Bankruptcy Code.   Approval does not indicate EOUST endorsement or assure the quality of agency’s services.

Online Pre-Filing Bankruptcy Counseling

An online pre-filing bankruptcy counseling session is approximately 90 minutes in length.  Online sessions utilize Counseling in Motion – BK Edition, developed by the American Center for Credit Education(ACCE), and will include an overview of the bankruptcy process; possible alternatives to bankruptcy, including their advantages and disadvantages; and a personalized budget analysis and action plan.  Consumers will have interaction with a Certified Credit Counselor. When you complete the session you will receive a certificate of completion that you will have to include in the filing with your bankruptcy petition if you so choose.

Already have a username and password?  Click here to log in to Counseling in Motion – BK Edition.

Want to learn more?  Review the Pre-Filing Bankruptcy Counseling Disclosures here, then call (800)747-9307 or follow the steps below.

What is the Process?

   Contact Us

Contact a counselor by calling (800)747-9307 or by emailing support@familylifecredit.org to have any questions or concerns addressed.

   Review the Pre-Filing Bankruptcy Counseling Disclosures

Review the Pre-Filing Bankruptcy Counseling Disclosures here.

   Register for Online Pre-Filing Bankruptcy Counseling

Click Here to Register Online or call (800)747-9307 to get set up for your online pre-filing bankruptcy counseling session.

   Get Organized

Your counselor will ask you to gather specific information for your counseling session, such as creditor statements, values/balances of assets and liabilities, and a general idea of your monthly income sources and spending habits. This will help in the counseling process as you discuss your current situation, including the issues you are facing and your goals and objectives for your finances.

   Interact With Your Counselor

During the online process you will have the opportunity to ask as many questions as you need.  Your counselor will have the ability to interact via phone or email.  Rest assured, your questions will get answered.

   Take Action

During your interaction with your counselor, he or she will provide you with an Action Plan to address the issues you are facing and the personal goals and objectives you’ve identified. They will assist you as you determine your options based on your situation. This plan may include changes and activities you can do on your own, or it may direct you to outside resources that would be of help to you.

   Print Your Certificate

Once you have interacted with your counselor and completed the online counseling session, you will be issued your Pre-Filing Bankruptcy Counseling Completion Certificate within one business day.

Fee Schedule:

• Pre-Filing Bankruptcy Credit Counseling Session (Individual/Joint):  $40.00
• Fee includes all aspects of the counseling session, including the certificate.
• Fee does not increase for Joint counseling sessions.
• Payable by cash, money order, or a debit card (VISA/MasterCard).

Fee Waivers/Reductions:

In some circumstances, you may be eligible to have this fee waived or reduced based on your ability to pay.  We will not deny service due to an inability to pay.  The fee is waived with proof that your income is below the poverty level according to current US Census figures.  Fees may also be reduced or waived at counselor’s discretion if client demonstrates a significant hardship or inability to pay.