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How Many Times Can I File Bankruptcy?
How Many Times Can I File Bankruptcy According to Federal Law? How many times can I file bankruptcy? This is
September 23, 2025
How Many Times Can I File Bankruptcy?
How Many Times Can I File Bankruptcy According to Federal Law?
How many times can I file bankruptcy? This is a common question for individuals facing repeated financial hardship. The short answer is: there’s no limit to the number of times you can file bankruptcy. However, there are strict rules about how often you can receive a discharge, which may eliminate certain debts under federal law.
If you’ve filed before and are considering bankruptcy again, understanding the timing rules and chapter-specific requirements is crucial. This article breaks down everything you need to know to plan a repeat filing effectively and lawfully.
Bankruptcy Discharge Timelines: What You Need to Know
You can technically file bankruptcy as many times as needed, but you must follow discharge waiting periods. These determine whether your debts may be discharged in your new case.
Here are the most common scenarios:
Filing Chapter 7 After Chapter 7
- Wait time: 8 years from the date of your last Chapter 7 filing
- Example: If you filed Chapter 7 in 2017 and received a discharge, you must wait until 2025 to file again to be eligible for another discharge.
Filing Chapter 13 After Chapter 13
- Wait time: 2 years between filings
- Note: Since most Chapter 13 plans last 3–5 years, you usually qualify right after completing one.
Chapter 7 After Chapter 13
- Wait time: 6 years after filing the Chapter 13
- Exception: If you repaid 70% or more of your debts in Chapter 13, this waiting period may not apply.
Chapter 13 After Chapter 7
- Wait time: 4 years from your Chapter 7 filing date
While you can file sooner, doing so without waiting the full period may result in no discharge, leaving you still responsible for the debt.
Can You File Bankruptcy Too Often?
Technically, there’s no legal maximum number of times you can file for bankruptcy. However, if the court believes you’re abusing the system by repeatedly filing in a way that delays creditor actions without intent to complete your case, the judge may dismiss your filing or block your right to an automatic stay.
When Multiple Filings Are Red Flags:
- You file again immediately after your previous case is dismissed
- You ignore court requirements (e.g., failing to attend hearings or file documents)
- You file for the sole purpose of stopping foreclosure or eviction
Courts look for patterns of bad faith. If your case appears legitimate and you follow court requirements, penalties are less likely, even if you’ve filed before.
Reasons People File Bankruptcy More Than Once
Life is unpredictable. Even after a successful bankruptcy case, people often face unexpected events like:
- Job loss or reduction in income
- Major medical expenses
- Divorce or separation
- Economic downturns or inflation
- Emergency family needs
If you’ve filed before and wonder how many times can I file bankruptcy, know that it’s not uncommon to need relief more than once. The law recognizes this and provides repeat protection when needed.
Repeat Filings Can Still Offer Relief
As long as you follow the waiting period rules and file under the correct chapter, you can still seek protections such as:
- Foreclosure or repossession relief
- Wage garnishments relief
- Restructuring debts into a manageable payment plan
- Discharging eligible debts (if timing allows)
The key is to file strategically, often with the guidance of a bankruptcy attorney who can review your financial picture and filing history.
Filing Again? Here’s What to Consider First
Before filing a second or third time, take the following steps:
- Review your past bankruptcy cases and discharge dates
- Check your eligibility for discharge based on chapter and timeline
- Speak to a bankruptcy professional to avoid missteps
- Understand what debts are dischargeable in repeat filings
- Determine if Chapter 13 is a better fit for your current financial situation
Still Wondering How Many Times Can I File Bankruptcy?
How many times can I file bankruptcy depends on your financial circumstances and the timing between discharges. While the law allows multiple filings, each situation is unique. Understanding the rules and available filing strategies is an important part of the process.
Get Help Filing Bankruptcy the Right Way
Need help figuring out how many times can I file bankruptcy and what it means for you? Get connected with a local bankruptcy attorney who can review your filing history and help you chart a better path forward.
Start with a free evaluation or contact us to discuss your options and understand how a repeat filing may affect your financial situation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I file bankruptcy more than once in my lifetime?
Yes. There’s no lifetime limit on filings, but there are time restrictions between discharges.
2. What happens if I file too soon after a previous bankruptcy?
You may be allowed to file, but you might not receive a discharge of debts.
3. Does repeat filing affect my credit score more?
Each filing impacts your credit. Multiple filings within short periods may extend recovery time.
4. Can I switch chapters if I’ve filed before?
Yes. You may be able to switch from Chapter 7 to Chapter 13 or vice versa, depending on your needs and eligibility.
5. Will the court deny my case if I’ve filed multiple times?
Not automatically, but if the court sees abuse of the system or bad faith, it can dismiss your case.
Key Takeaways
- You can file for bankruptcy more than once, but time limits apply between discharges
- Chapter type and discharge history affect eligibility for repeat filings
- Courts may deny protection if you file repeatedly without cause
- Strategic filing can still offer full debt relief
- Always consult a qualified attorney to avoid delays or dismissal
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