Required for most filers before submitting a bankruptcy petition. Generally must be completed within 180 days before your filing date.
Typically a 1–2 hour session reviewing your budget, debts, and alternatives to bankruptcy. You discuss your financial situation with a counselor and receive personalized guidance.
Generally valid for 180 days from completion. Most courts require you to file before it expires — take the course close to your planned filing date.
Most U.S. Trustee-approved agencies offer fully online courses you can complete from home. Some offer phone-based completion for filers without reliable internet.
Fees vary by provider, typically $10–$50. Approved agencies must offer low-income fee waivers — request a waiver if you cannot afford the course.
Each filer generally needs their own certificate. If you and your spouse are filing jointly, both of you must complete the course separately and obtain individual certificates.
Filing after the certificate expires — the 180-day window starts on the day you completed the course.
Not keeping a copy of the certificate — always save a digital backup in addition to any paper copy.
Taking the course from an agency not approved for your specific district — verify on justice.gov/ust.
Assuming one certificate covers both spouses — each filer in a joint case needs their own certificate.
Example providers shown for reference. Always verify approval at justice.gov/ust.
JustiPal™ does not verify court acceptance. Confirm your provider is approved by the U.S. Trustee Program for your district at justice.gov/ust.
Record your completion and track your certificate expiration date.