Credit Counseling for Kansas City Bankruptcy Filers

What Is Required

Before you can file any bankruptcy case in Kansas City - Chapter 7, Chapter 13, or Chapter 11 - you must complete a credit counseling session with an agency approved by the U.S. Trustee Program. This is federal law under 11 U.S.C. Section 109(h).

What the Session Covers

• Review of your current financial situation (income, expenses, debts)
• Discussion of alternatives to bankruptcy (debt management plans, negotiation)
• Help creating a personal budget
• Information about available community resources
• Overview of what bankruptcy involves

The counselor is not trying to talk you out of bankruptcy. The session is designed to make sure you understand all your options before proceeding. Most people who complete counseling proceed with filing.

Approved Providers for Kansas City

This Is NOT the Same as Debtor Education

What If You Can't Afford the Fee?

Many approved agencies offer reduced fees or fee waivers for filers whose income is below 150% of the federal poverty line. Ask the provider about their hardship policy before enrolling. You can also check with local legal aid:

• Legal Aid of Western Missouri: (816) 474-6750
• Kansas Legal Services: (800) 723-6953

What If You Already Filed Without Counseling?

The court will not process your petition without a credit counseling certificate. In genuine emergencies, you can file a motion for temporary waiver under 11 U.S.C. Section 109(h)(3), but you must complete counseling within 30 days. This requires showing "exigent circumstances" that prevented you from getting counseling before filing.