Debtor Education

A Personal Financial Management Course is required in order for you to be eligible for a discharge of your debts under your Chapter 13 plan. You must complete this course prior to the completion of Chapter 13 plan payments. The course will provide information on the following topics: developing a personal spending plan, financial decision making, savings strategies, financial goal planning, use of credit, and credit reports.

The Trustee Education Network ("TEN") has produced an on-line course which satisfies this requirement, and we have arranged for all debtors whose cases are being administered by Trustee Angela M. Scolforo to take this course for free. Please see the attached debtor education flyer for details on how to sign up for this course.

Here in the Western District of Virginia, there are also other options available to you to satisfy this requirement. Various providers offer several options to complete the course either in-person, online, or over the phone. The course length is typically 2 to 3 hours, and with most providers there will be a fee charged (typically $25 to $30 for an individual; $50 to $60 for joint filers).

For a list of approved providers, click this link to go to the Department of Justice Website.  Select Virginia from the drop down list of states, and click “Go.” Then scroll down to mid-page to find providers that are approved in the Western District of Virginia.

Remember, you will not be eligible for a Chapter 13 Discharge without completing a course offered by an approved institution. We recommend that you complete this course as soon as possible.

Please feel free to contact our office if you need any additional information.

Useful Links: