Chapter 13 is an interest-free debt repayment plan through which you consolidate your debts and make a payment on your debt over a 3 to 5 year period. While in a chapter 13 debt repayment plan, the creditors cannot collect from you, and the creditors are required by a Federal Court order to adhere to the terms of the plan.

One very important thing to remember about Chapter 13 is that you must be working or have a consistent source of income for your repayment plan to be approved by the court. Not only must you be able to pay for your monthly living expenses, but you must also be able to make a payment to the court to consolidate your debts.

Debts that are generally consolidated in a chapter 13 are mortgage arrears, balances on vehicle loans, student loans, credit card debts and other unsecured debts. All outstanding debts must be included in the Chapter 13 consolidation.

Some Bankruptcy chapters will get rid of unsecured debts and stop foreclosures, repossessions, garnishments, utility shut-offs, and debt collection activities. It also may provide exemptions that allow you to keep certain assets, although exemption amounts vary and the effect on your credit can last for years