How long does it take to get a Chapter 7 discharge?
Most Chapter 7 cases discharge within 3 to 6 months of filing. The discharge order usually issues about 60 to 90 days after the 341 meeting of creditors, once the objection window has closed and you have finished the debtor education course.
How long does Chapter 13 take?
Chapter 13 discharge comes only after you complete all plan payments. Below-median income filers use a 3-year plan; above-median filers must complete a 5-year plan. You cannot generally discharge early unless unsecured creditors are paid in full.
What delays a bankruptcy discharge?
Failing to complete the pre-discharge debtor education course, missing Chapter 13 plan payments, unresolved creditor objections or adversary proceedings, and failing to file required tax returns or documents can all delay or prevent discharge.
Do I have to take a course to get discharged?
Yes. You must complete a pre-filing credit counseling course to file, and a pre-discharge debtor education course before the court will grant your discharge in both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13.