How to File Chapter 13 in Minnesota
If you are living in Minnesota and working but can't make ends meet no matter how hard you try, it may be time to consider filing for bankruptcy protection under Chapter 13 the U.S. bankruptcy laws. A Chapter 13 bankruptcy won't eliminate your debt, but it will restructure your debt and create a repayment plan that allows you to pay off your debt and keep your assets.
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Instructions
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Get credit counseling. Before taking the big step to file for bankruptcy protection, you will need to go to an approved credit counselor within six months of filing for bankruptcy. There are 55 approved counselors listed for the District of Minnesota, though not all of them are located in the state. Once you complete your counseling, the credit agency will give you a statement of compliance that you will need to include with your bankruptcy filings.
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Hire a bankruptcy attorney. Personal bankruptcies can be represented by the individual named in the filing. However, when your case can be dismissed because of missing paperwork or a misinterpretation of a rule you didn't understand, it would be wise to have someone familiar with bankruptcy law representing you. If attorney fees are the issue, pro bono lawyers are available. Your bankruptcy court should have a list of free legal services in the area the court serves.
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File your bankruptcy petition with the United States Bankruptcy Court in Minnesota. There are four offices for the U.S. bankruptcy court in Minnesota--- Minneapolis, Duluth, St. Paul and Fergus Falls. Where you file depends on which county you live in. All of the necessary forms to file for bankruptcy protection can be downloaded from the bankruptcy court web site and prepared before visiting the court.
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Meet with your creditors. With a bankruptcy lawyer representing you, you will need to attend only one required meeting for your case. This is a formal meeting with your creditors and your lawyer. Your creditors will be able to question you about your debts and finances,-+ and together, you will all put together a debt repayment plan that is acceptable to everyone.
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Make your payments. Once the bankruptcy judge approves the repayment plan, it is your responsibility to make your payments and abide by the terms of the plan. Most debt repayment plans are designed to be completed within five years. Once the plan is completed and the debts repaid, the case will be discharged.
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