How Upsolve's Free Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Filing Tool Works

If you’re feeling stuck in debt and don’t know where to turn, I’ve been there.

Eight years ago, I was $60,000 in credit card debt after my small business failed. I couldn’t afford a bankruptcy attorney, but figuring it out on my own was overwhelming. Getting that fresh start changed everything. I went on to graduate from law school, co-found Upsolve, get married, buy a home, and build a life I’m proud of.

We built Upsolve so others like me can get the same relief for free, without all the confusion.

Let me show you how it works.

1. You Answer a Few Questions

It starts with a quick screener that takes just a few minutes. We ask about your income, your debts, and your goals to make sure Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the right fit for you.

👉 Start the screener — it only takes two minutes.

2. We Guide You Through Your Forms

If you're eligible, we’ll walk you through all the forms you need to file. Think TurboTax, but for bankruptcy. Every question is in plain English — no confusing legal language.

If you don’t qualify for free help through Upsolve, we’ll point you to other trustworthy resources.

3. You Complete a Short Course (Required Before Filing)

Before you file, the law requires you to take a brief credit counseling course. It’s online, takes about an hour, and costs $14.95 with the low-cost provider we recommend.

If you qualify for a fee waiver, we’ll help you get it.

4. You File and Complete a Second Short Course

Once your forms are ready, you’ll download and file them with your local bankruptcy court. 

📄 The court charges a filing fee, but if you qualify for a fee waiver, we’ll help you request it.

Then you’ll take a second short course online to get your debts discharged. It only takes about an hour, and we’ll help with a fee waiver if you qualify.

5. You Attend a Short Meeting

You’ll attend a quick meeting called the 341 meeting. It’s not in a courtroom and there’s no judge. It usually just takes 5–10 minutes on it’s held via Zoom or by phone.

A trustee — a neutral person who works on behalf of the system — asks a few basic questions about your forms. We’ll help you prepare.

6. You Get Your Fresh Start

Once your case is complete and both courses are done, your eligible debts are wiped away forever. No more credit card bills. No more collection calls. Just peace of mind.

Why It’s Free

We’re a nonprofit, not a business. We don’t charge you, and we don’t make a cent from your case. We’re funded by groups like the Gates Foundation, Robin Hood Foundation, and the Legal Services Corporation.

We built Upsolve so anyone who needs a fresh start can get one.

What People Say About Using Upsolve

“Upsolve changed my life. I was drowning in debt and couldn’t afford a lawyer. This gave me my freedom back.” –Maria, Florida

“I couldn’t believe it was actually free. I thought there had to be a catch. There wasn’t.” –DeShawn, Illinois

“The instructions were so clear. I felt supported every step of the way.” –Angie, California

Ready To Get Your Fresh Start?

You don’t need to make any big decisions right now. Just take the first step — answer a few questions and see if you’re eligible.

👉 See if you qualify — it’s free and only takes two minutes

If you're feeling stuck like I was, I hope this can be the beginning of your new chapter — just like it was for me

Ben Jackson Co-Founder, Upsolve