How To Take the Pre-Bankruptcy Credit Counseling Course for Free

Can You Get a Free Credit Counseling Certificate for Chapter 7?

Yes, many filers do! 

To get a free credit counseling certificate, you’ll need to apply for a fee waiver when you sign up for the credit counseling course.

Fee waiver eligibility is based on your income. If your income is below 150% of the federal poverty guideline, you’ll likely qualify to have your course fee waived.

How Do I Get a Fee Waiver for the Credit Counseling Course?

When you sign up for your credit counseling course, the agency will usually ask if you want to apply for a fee waiver. If they don’t bring it up, it’s completely fine to ask. Many people do!

Once you say you’d like to apply, the agency will walk you through what they need. 

📄 It helps to gather financial documents like recent pay stubs, W-2s, and Social Security award letters. These documents help the agency decide whether you qualify for a free course based on your financial situation. 

⌛ Most agencies, like DebtorCC, respond within about 72 hours. They’ll send you an email to let you know if you’ve been approved.

If your application is approved, you can take the course without paying a fee. If it’s denied, you’ll still need to take the course, and you’ll have to pay the listed fee.

Not sure where to begin? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process, using DebtorCC as an example.

Step 1: Find an Approved Credit Counseling Agency

You can take the credit counseling course from any agency that's approved by the U.S. Trustee Program. These agencies are listed on the Department of Justice’s website.

✅ Upsolve recommends DebtorCC because it's user-friendly, easy to navigate, and widely used by people filing Chapter 7. But you can use any approved provider you want.

Once you pick an agency, you’ll need to create an account on its website. 

Don’t worry if you see a course fee listed during this step — you won’t have to pay anything just to create your account. And if you plan to apply for a fee waiver, you may not have to pay at all.

Step 2: Fill Out the Credit Counseling Fee Waiver Application

If you’re applying for a fee waiver, you’ll need to fill out a short application and share some financial documents. The exact steps can vary by agency, but the process is pretty similar across the board.

Here’s how it works with DebtorCC:

🌐 After you create an account and enter some basic info, you’ll land on a page called “First Course–Fee Waiver Eligibility.” Select the option to apply for a waiver and download the application form.

You’ll be asked about:

• Your income and household size

• Fixed income sources like Social Security or unemployment, if applicable

• What you own, including bank accounts, a car you own outright, jewelry, and other valuables 

Have your last two pay stubs or W-2s ready, and be prepared to list how much each item of your property is worth.

💡 Keep this information handy! You’ll need it again when you prepare your bankruptcy forms.

Step 3: Wait 72 Hours To See if You’re Approved (You’ll Get an Email)

Once you’ve completed the application and gathered your documents, send everything to the credit counseling agency. This includes your signed application and proof of income, like pay stubs, W-2s, or statements for any fixed income you receive.

✉️ If you’re using DebtorCC, you’ll email your documents to feewaiver@debtorcc.org.

After the agency receives your paperwork, they’ll review it and send you a response within about 72 hours. 

You’ll get the decision by email, so be sure to check your inbox regularly. If anything is unclear or you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the agency directly.

What if My Bankruptcy Credit Counseling Waiver Is Denied?

If your fee waiver request is denied, you’ll need to pay the regular fee.

All bankruptcy filers are required to take a credit counseling course before filing their bankruptcy case. This means you’ll need to figure out a way to pay the fee so you can take the course and submit your certificate of completion to the court.

It might feel frustrating to pay the fee, especially when money is already tight, but try to keep the big picture in mind. This course is one of the first steps toward wiping out your debt and getting a fresh start through Chapter 7.

For more help, check out our tips below on how to pay for the course if you’re denied a fee waiver.

Tips if You Need Help Paying for the Credit Counseling Course

If you don’t qualify for a full fee waiver — or you’re still worried about how to pay for the credit counseling course — you’re not alone. Here are some options that may help ease the burden:

Shop Around for a Lower Fee 

Approved credit counseling agencies are required to keep their fees at $50 or less. Still, some agencies charge much less. Sometimes as low as $10–$15. 

It’s worth comparing providers, especially if you’re on a tight budget or want to find one that offers a reduced fee based on your income.

Ask About a Partial Waiver or Discount

If your fee waiver is denied, the agency may still reduce the fee or work with you on payment options. It never hurts to ask. Many people are surprised by how flexible some providers are.

Look Into Mutual Aid and Community Support Groups 

Local mutual aid networks, religious organizations, or community groups sometimes help people with small emergency expenses — especially for essential needs like housing, utilities, and legal help. 

If you’re active in a community group, or know someone who is, don’t be afraid to ask for support. Even small donations from community members can make a difference.

Reach Out to Legal Aid or Local Nonprofits

Legal aid organizations and nonprofit groups often know which credit counseling providers offer low-cost courses. Some may even have programs to help you pay for the course.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about credit counseling courses and the bankruptcy filing process.

What Is a Credit Counseling Certificate, and Why Do I Need It?

This certificate proves you completed the required pre-bankruptcy credit counseling course. You must file it with the bankruptcy court when you submit your bankruptcy forms. If you don’t, your case could be dismissed, and you won’t be able to get your debts discharged.

What Is the Second Required Course After I File for Bankruptcy?

After you file, you’ll need to complete a second course called the debtor education course (sometimes called the financial management course). 

This course focuses on budgeting, saving, and building healthy money habits. Once you finish, you’ll get another certificate of completion that you’ll need to file with the court to receive your bankruptcy discharge.

How Do I Know If a Credit Counseling Agency Is Legit?

Only use a provider approved by the U.S. Trustee Program, which is part of the Department of Justice. You can find the full list on their official website. 

It’s also a good idea to check an agency’s reputation on trusted sources like the Better Business Bureau.

What’s the Difference Between a Credit Counselor and a Bankruptcy Lawyer?

🤝 A credit counselor helps you review your financial situation and complete the required credit counseling session before you file. 

They work for approved agencies and can explain general options, but they can’t give you legal advice. 

🏛️ A bankruptcy lawyer can advise you on legal strategy, file your bankruptcy case for you, and represent you in court. That said, you don’t need a lawyer to file Chapter 7. Many people do it successfully on their own or using Upsolve’s free filing tool.

Do I Still Need To Take the Course If I’m Filing Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

Yes. Whether you’re filing Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you must complete the pre-bankruptcy credit counseling course before you file your case. 

The steps to apply for the fee waiver and take the course are the same, and you’ll still need to file your certificate of completion with the court.

Will the Credit Counseling Course Show Up on My Credit Report?

No, just taking the course doesn’t show up on your credit report. 

In fact, many people meet with a certified credit counselor to explore their debt relief options. Credit counselors also administer debt management plans. If you sign up for one, that might be reported to the credit bureaus.

Let’s Summarize...

Before filing bankruptcy, you must complete a credit counseling course and file your certificate of completion with the court. Many people qualify for a credit counseling course fee waiver based on their income. Even if you don’t get a full waiver, you might still get a reduced rate. It’s worth shopping around, asking questions, and exploring community or nonprofit resources to keep costs low.

And if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the process, Upsolve may be able to help. We’re a nonprofit that helps people with simple Chapter 7 cases file for free — no lawyer needed. If you qualify, our easy-to-use tool guides you through the required courses and paperwork step by step. Take our free screener to see if Upsolve is right for you.