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Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

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How Many Times Can You File for Bankruptcy?

How Many Times Can You File for Bankruptcy and Still Get Relief?

How many times can you file for bankruptcy is a question that comes up when someone has already filed once but finds themselves in financial trouble again. While there’s no limit to how many times you can file, there are rules about how often you can receive a discharge, which is the court order that eliminates your debts.

In this article, we’ll explain the waiting periods between filings, the differences between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 rules, and what to consider before filing again.

Rules for Filing Bankruptcy More Than Once

There is no lifetime limit to how many times you can file for bankruptcy, but the type of bankruptcy you previously filed and the type you’re planning to file now determine when you’re eligible to file again and receive a discharge.

Chapter 7 After Chapter 7

  • You must wait 8 years from the date of your previous Chapter 7 filing to file another Chapter 7 and receive a discharge.

Chapter 13 After Chapter 13

  • You must wait 2 years from the date of your prior Chapter 13 filing to file another Chapter 13 and receive a discharge. This waiting period is relatively short because Chapter 13 includes a repayment plan.

Chapter 7 After Chapter 13

  • If you filed Chapter 13 before and want to file Chapter 7, you must wait 6 years to be eligible for a discharge.
  • Exception: If you paid at least 70% of your unsecured debts in full during your Chapter 13 plan, the 6-year rule may not apply.

Chapter 13 After Chapter 7

  • If you received a Chapter 7 discharge, you must wait 4 years before filing for Chapter 13 and being eligible for a discharge.

Filing Without a Discharge

You might be wondering if how many times can you file for bankruptcy includes cases without a discharge. The answer is yes—you can still file even if you’re not eligible for a discharge, but there are risks and limitations.

You may want to do this if:

  • You need to stop a foreclosure or wage garnishment
  • You’re trying to repay certain debts without expecting them to be discharged
  • You filed too recently to get a discharge but need the protection of the automatic stay

This strategy, often called a “Chapter 20” (filing Chapter 13 after a recent Chapter 7), can be effective in some cases, but always consult a professional first.

What Happens If You File Too Soon?

If you file again before the waiting period ends, the court may allow the case to proceed, but you won’t receive a discharge. That means:

  • You’ll still owe all your debts
  • Creditors may resume collections after the case closes
  • You may waste time and money going through the process

Knowing how many times can you file for bankruptcy is about understanding when it makes sense to file, not just whether you’re allowed to.

Get Help Knowing How Many Times You Can File for Bankruptcy

If you’re wondering how many times can you file for bankruptcy, you’re not alone. Every situation is different, and the rules can be complex.

At Bankruptcy Attorneys, we connect you with experienced legal professionals who can explain the timelines, assess your past filings, and help you make the best decision for your financial future.

Contact us today for a free case evaluation and learn when you can legally and strategically file again.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Yes. There’s no legal limit to how many times you can file, but there are waiting periods before you can receive another discharge.

You may still get temporary protection from creditors, but you won’t receive a discharge, so you’ll still owe your debts.

The clock starts from your filing date, not the discharge date, for all waiting periods between bankruptcy cases.

Only if you’re eligible for a discharge and the debts qualify under bankruptcy rules (e.g., unsecured debts like credit cards or medical bills).

Yes. Even if you’re not eligible for a discharge, filing Chapter 13 after Chapter 7 can give you court protection and time to catch up on missed payments.

Key Takeaways

  • There is no lifetime cap on how many times you can file for bankruptcy
  • Waiting periods between filings range from 2 to 8 years, depending on chapters filed
  • Filing too early may disqualify you from receiving a discharge
  • Some people file strategically without seeking a discharge to gain legal protection
  • A free legal evaluation can help you determine your eligibility to file again

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