In 2005, the United States Congress passed the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005. This landmark legislation requires any individual who plans to file for bankruptcy to complete a pre-filing briefing given by a credit counseling agency approved by the U.S. Department of Justice. Additionally, under the new law, a bankrupt individual must take part in an approved, follow-up personal financial management course before his or her debts can be discharged. For the first time, the value of financial education has been enshrined in law. We think that’s an important and beneficial milestone.

Bankruptcy is intended to wipe the slate clean. But filing for bankruptcy is not a free ride and it has serious consequences. We think consumers should know both the plusses and minuses of declaring bankruptcy. And, for those about to emerge from bankruptcy, we want to help you make the most of this fresh start by teaching you how to keep your finances in order and to learn to use credit wisely.

Family Foundations is an approved agency to help you complete the required pre-filing counsleing and provide you with the certificate you will need should you choose to file for bankruptcy protection. *

Please be advised that in most cases you will be charged $50.00 for this counseling service and the bankruptcy certificate. We do provide free services to certain consumers who are receiving free legal services or are receiving disability income. We will explain later how to pay for your session or what to do if you qualify for free services.

If you are considering bankruptcy or have filed bankruptcy and need bankruptcy education, please contact us.

* Approved to issue certificates in compliance with the Bankruptcy Code. Approval does not endorse or assure the quality of an agency's services.