Will I have to take credit counseling classes before filing for bankruptcy?

Yes. Under the new bankruptcy laws, before you can even file for bankruptcy, you must complete a credit counseling class with an approved agency; the credit counseling class will help advise you as to whether you need to file for bankruptcy, or if a repayment plan is better for your situation. The counselor will submit a repayment plan; however, you are not required to follow it (but you must submit the plan when you file for bankruptcy). In addition, after your bankruptcy case has been completed, you will have to enroll in another credit counseling class, which will provide advice and information on how to handle your personal financial affairs better. You must attend this class before you can have your debts discharged.