Don't let errors on your Credit Report hurt your future opportunities. Learn More

Home / Negative Items / When Can I File Ch. 7 After Ch. 13 Dismissal?

When Can I File Ch. 7 After Ch. 13 Dismissal?

  • File Chapter 7 immediately if your Chapter 13 was dismissed without prejudice.
  • Wait 180 days if dismissed with prejudice and ensure past issues are resolved.
  • Call The Credit Pros to review your credit report and get expert advice on re-filing and other options.

Pull your 3-bureau report and see how you can identify and remove errors on your report.

Get Help From a Credit Expert

89 people started their credit fight today - join them!

BBB A+ rating credit repair company

Related content: How Many Times Can I File for Bankruptcy

File Chapter 7 right after a Chapter 13 dismissal without prejudice. Wait 180 days if dismissed with prejudice. Your eligibility hinges on past bankruptcies and dismissal reasons.

Refiling rules change based on how and when you were dismissed. Multiple dismissals in a year limit your choices and automatic stay protection. Understand why your Chapter 13 got dismissed and fix those issues before trying Chapter 7.

Need help? Call The Credit Pros now. We'll check your full 3-bureau credit report and chat about your situation. Our experts know the ins and outs of tricky bankruptcy rules. We'll explore other options and create a plan just for you to get your money matters sorted. Don't let a dismissal throw you off track – let's talk and get you back on your feet today.

On This Page:

    When Can I File Chapter 7 After A Chapter 13 Dismissal

    After a Chapter 13 dismissal, you can file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy immediately if your case was dismissed without prejudice. However, your eligibility and timing depend on several factors:

    • If your dismissal was without prejudice, you can refile right away. But be aware that you might face restrictions on the automatic stay.

    • With a prejudice dismissal, you'll likely need to wait, often for 180 days, before you can file again.

    • You're not eligible for Chapter 7 if you've received a Chapter 7 discharge within the last 8 years or a Chapter 13 discharge within 6 years.

    • The reason for your dismissal matters. If you failed to appear or comply with court orders, you might face additional restrictions.

    • Multiple filings can result in longer waiting periods or make you ineligible.

    We recommend that you take these steps:

    • Consult a bankruptcy attorney to assess your specific situation.
    • Address the issues that led to your Chapter 13 dismissal.
    • Gather all required documents before you refile.
    • Consider alternatives if you're not eligible for immediate Chapter 7 filing.

    Remember, if you refile too soon, it can impact your automatic stay protection. A qualified attorney can help you navigate these complexities and improve your chances of a successful Chapter 7 filing.

    Big picture, you should carefully consider your timing and eligibility before filing Chapter 7 after a Chapter 13 dismissal. We understand this can be stressful, but with the right guidance, you can make informed decisions about your financial future.

    What Are The Waiting Periods For Refiling Bankruptcy After Dismissal

    Here's the improved content:

    You face different waiting periods for refiling bankruptcy after dismissal:

    • No prejudice dismissal: You can refile immediately, often due to paperwork errors.

    • With prejudice dismissal: You'll likely wait 180 days. Courts impose this if they suspect fraud or bad faith filings.

    • Multiple dismissals within a year: Your refiling options become limited.

    - One dismissal in a year: You get a 30-day automatic stay if you refile.
    - Two dismissals in a year: You lose automatic stay protection when refiling.

    We advise you to understand why your case was dismissed. This helps you determine your next steps. For dismissals without prejudice, you might be able to reinstate your Chapter 13 case instead of filing anew. Remember, if you have frequent dismissals, you severely limit your bankruptcy protections, leaving you vulnerable to creditor actions.

    Consider these points before you refile:
    • Why was your previous case dismissed?
    • What's your current financial situation?
    • How will refiling impact your automatic stay?
    • What alternatives do you have to refiling?

    We recommend you consult a bankruptcy attorney. They can help you navigate your specific situation and explore the best options for your financial recovery.

    Overall, you should carefully consider your options and seek professional advice before refiling bankruptcy after a dismissal. This approach will help you make the best decision for your financial future.

    Can I Refile Chapter 7 Immediately After A Chapter 13 Dismissal

    You can refile Chapter 7 immediately after a Chapter 13 dismissal in most cases, but you need to consider several important factors:

    • If your Chapter 13 was dismissed without prejudice, you're likely able to refile right away.

    • However, if it was dismissed with prejudice, you'll face a 180-day waiting period if:
    - You voluntarily dismissed after a creditor filed a Motion for Relief
    - The court dismissed your case for failure to appear or properly prosecute

    • If you've had a bankruptcy case pending within the last year, be aware that the automatic stay may only last 30 days unless you get a court order to extend it.

    • Understanding why your Chapter 13 was dismissed is crucial. Common reasons include missed payments, failure to meet deadlines, or not submitting required documents.

    • Once your case is dismissed, creditors can resume collection efforts. You should act quickly to regain protection if needed.

    • We recommend you consider why your Chapter 13 failed and if Chapter 7 is more suitable for your situation. It's best to consult a bankruptcy attorney to assess your options and improve your chances of success.

    • Be prepared to explain what went wrong with your Chapter 13 and how your situation has changed to support a successful Chapter 7 filing.

    As a final note, remember that every case is unique. You should seek advice from a bankruptcy lawyer to navigate these complexities and determine the best path forward based on your specific circumstances.

    Are There Refiling Restrictions After A Bankruptcy Dismissal

    Yes, there are refiling restrictions after a bankruptcy dismissal. The specifics depend on why your case was dismissed:

    You can usually refile immediately if your case was dismissed without prejudice, but you'll need to fix issues that led to the original dismissal. If your case was dismissed with prejudice, you typically face a waiting period before you can refile, often due to suspected fraud or misconduct.

    Refiling timelines vary based on bankruptcy type:
    • You're generally eligible to refile Chapter 13 after 2 years
    • You must wait 8 years between Chapter 7 filings

    Even if you're not eligible for debt discharge, you can still file to get court protection and reduced payments during the plan period.

    Keep in mind:
    • You might need to file a Motion to Extend Stay to maintain creditor protection
    • Your eligibility for debt discharge in a new filing depends on timing since your previous case

    We recommend that you consult a bankruptcy attorney to navigate these complex rules. They can help you address prior case issues and determine your best path forward given your unique financial situation and goals.

    To put it simply, while you can refile after a bankruptcy dismissal, you'll face certain restrictions. Your best bet is to work with a professional who can guide you through the process and help you make the most informed decision for your financial future.

    Inaccuracies hurting your Credit Score?
    Securely review your full 3-bureau Credit Report (with a real expert).

    By clicking ‘Get Started’ I agree by electronic signature to: (1) be contacted by The Credit Pros by a live agent, artificial or prerecorded voice, and SMS text at my residential or cellular number, dialed manually or by autodialer even if my phone number is on a do-not-call registry (consent to be contacted is not a condition to purchase services); and (2) the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

    How Does The Reason For Chapter 13 Dismissal Affect Refiling

    When you're considering refiling after a Chapter 13 dismissal, the reason for the dismissal significantly impacts your options. Here's what you need to know:

    If your case was dismissed without prejudice, often due to paperwork errors, you can usually refile immediately. However, if you received a dismissal with prejudice, indicating potential fraud, you'll face stricter limitations.

    Specific reasons for dismissal, like missed payments or non-compliant plans, affect your waiting periods and automatic stay protections. For example, if you voluntarily dismissed your case after a creditor filed for relief, you'll need to wait 180 days before refiling.

    When you refile, you'll need to submit new petitions and plans that reflect your current financial situation. It's crucial that you explain why your previous filing failed and demonstrate how your circumstances have changed to improve your chances of success.

    Keep in mind that the court considers your dismissal history when determining the duration of the automatic stay in subsequent filings. If you've had multiple dismissals within a year, you might face limited or no automatic stay without court approval.

    Here are key points to remember:
    • The type of dismissal (with or without prejudice) is crucial for your refiling options
    • Specific reasons for dismissal impact your refiling timelines
    • You must address previous issues in your new filing
    • Multiple dismissals may limit your automatic stay protections

    In short, we strongly advise that you consult with a bankruptcy attorney to navigate the complexities of refiling, especially if you've had dismissals with prejudice or multiple failed attempts. They can help you understand your options and improve your chances of a successful refiling.

    What'S The Process For Converting A Dismissed Chapter 13 To Chapter 7

    You can convert your dismissed Chapter 13 to Chapter 7 by filing a Notice of Conversion with the bankruptcy court. This option is available to you anytime during your Chapter 13 case. To qualify, you need to:

    • Pass the means test
    • Pay a conversion fee
    • Not have received a Chapter 7 discharge in the last 8 years
    • Obtain credit counseling

    Here are the key steps you should follow in the process:

    1. File the Notice of Conversion with the court
    2. Submit a motion explaining your reasons for conversion
    3. Act in good faith - courts may deny your conversion if they suspect abuse

    You should be aware of potential drawbacks, including losing non-exempt assets and facing opposition from creditors. We strongly advise you to consult a bankruptcy attorney to help you navigate this complex process. They'll evaluate if conversion is your best option given your specific financial situation and goals.

    Remember, converting can provide you with immediate relief if you've experienced job loss, reduced income, or can't keep up with Chapter 13 payments. However, it's crucial that you carefully consider the implications before proceeding. To finish up, we recommend you take action by speaking with a bankruptcy attorney who can guide you through the conversion process and help you make the best decision for your financial future.

    Can I File Chapter 7 If Chapter 13 Was Dismissed For Non-Payment

    Yes, you can file Chapter 7 if your Chapter 13 was dismissed for non-payment. Here's what you need to know:

    You'll face immediate effects when your Chapter 13 is dismissed. The automatic stay is lifted, allowing creditors to resume collection efforts against you. However, you have refiling options available.

    If your case was dismissed "without prejudice," you can typically refile right away. But if it was dismissed "with prejudice," you may face a waiting period before you can file again.

    To file Chapter 7, you'll need to qualify based on your income and pass the means test. Keep in mind that the dismissal will show on your credit report, potentially affecting your score.

    Before filing Chapter 7, we recommend that you address the reasons for your Chapter 13 dismissal. This can help improve your chances of a successful filing.

    • Be aware of waiting periods between filings, which depend on your case details.
    • Understand that refiling within a year may result in a shorter automatic stay period.
    • Consider consulting a bankruptcy attorney to evaluate your specific situation.

    We advise you to work with a bankruptcy attorney who can help you navigate the complexities of filing Chapter 7 after a Chapter 13 dismissal. They can provide personalized guidance based on your unique circumstances.

    In essence, while you can file Chapter 7 after a Chapter 13 dismissal, you'll need to carefully consider the timing, eligibility requirements, and potential challenges. With the right approach and professional help, you can work towards a fresh financial start.

    How Do Past Bankruptcy Discharges Affect Refiling Timelines

    Past bankruptcy discharges significantly impact your refiling timelines. You must wait 8 years after a Chapter 7 discharge or 6 years after a Chapter 13 discharge to file for Chapter 7 again. For Chapter 13, you need to wait 2 years after a previous Chapter 13 discharge or 4 years following a Chapter 7 discharge. These waiting periods aim to prevent bankruptcy abuse.

    If your case was dismissed without discharge, you may be able to refile sooner. However, you should be aware that multiple dismissals can trigger restrictions and limit your automatic stay protections. When considering refiling, you need to take into account:

    • Your previous bankruptcy type
    • Whether you received a discharge
    • Your reasons for refiling
    • Potential impacts on your credit

    You'll need to assess your current financial situation, check your eligibility under means testing, and evaluate your ability to complete a new filing successfully. We strongly advise you to consult a bankruptcy attorney to help you navigate the complexities of refiling. They can provide you with personalized guidance on how your past discharges affect your options and help you determine the best course of action based on your specific circumstances and debt relief goals.

    Remember, each bankruptcy case is unique. Your attorney can offer you tailored advice and help you understand the applicable waiting periods for your situation.

    To wrap things up, you should be aware of the waiting periods between bankruptcy filings, consider your specific circumstances, and seek professional legal advice to make the best decision for your financial future.

    Inaccuracies hurting your Credit Score?
    Securely review your full 3-bureau Credit Report (with a real expert).

    By clicking ‘Get Started’ I agree by electronic signature to: (1) be contacted by The Credit Pros by a live agent, artificial or prerecorded voice, and SMS text at my residential or cellular number, dialed manually or by autodialer even if my phone number is on a do-not-call registry (consent to be contacted is not a condition to purchase services); and (2) the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

    What Are The Consequences Of Multiple Bankruptcy Dismissals

    Multiple bankruptcy dismissals can severely impact your financial future. You'll face stricter limits on the automatic stay that protects you from creditor actions. After your second dismissal within a year, the stay only lasts 30 days unless a court extends it. With three or more dismissals, no automatic stay applies without court approval. This leaves you vulnerable to creditors resuming collection efforts against you.

    Courts may also bar you from filing again for a set period, especially if your dismissals were due to non-compliance or bad faith. Repeated dismissals make it much harder for you to prove good faith in future filings. To avoid these consequences, we advise you to:

    • Follow all bankruptcy requirements carefully
    • Submit complete, accurate paperwork on time
    • Attend all required meetings and hearings
    • Complete mandatory credit counseling courses
    • Make timely payments in Chapter 13 cases

    You should work with an experienced bankruptcy attorney to ensure you meet all obligations. If dismissal occurs, address the underlying issues before refiling. You may need to explore alternatives like debt management plans if you're ineligible to file again immediately.

    We understand dealing with multiple dismissals is stressful for you. Take heart - by learning from your past mistakes and preparing thoroughly, you can improve your chances of a successful bankruptcy filing next time. We're here to guide you through the process and help you get back on solid financial footing.

    On the whole, if you're facing multiple bankruptcy dismissals, you should take immediate action to address the underlying issues, work closely with a bankruptcy attorney, and carefully follow all court requirements to improve your chances of a successful filing in the future.

    Is There A Mandatory Wait Between A Chapter 13 Dismissal And A Chapter 7

    You can generally file Chapter 7 immediately after your Chapter 13 case is dismissed. However, specific circumstances may affect your timing:

    • If you paid 100% of allowed unsecured claims or at least 70% with good faith effort in your Chapter 13 plan, you can file Chapter 7 right away.

    • You might face a 180-day refiling restriction if you voluntarily dismissed your Chapter 13 case.

    • If your Chapter 13 was involuntarily dismissed for non-payment, you can usually refile more quickly.

    • Multiple filings within a year could limit your automatic stay to 30 days in a new case.

    • The court will consider factors like your reason for dismissal, payments made, and time since filing.

    We strongly recommend that you consult a bankruptcy attorney to evaluate your unique situation. They can help you understand potential consequences and choose the best path forward. Remember, your creditors can resume collection actions after dismissal, so timing is crucial for you.

    By working with an expert, you'll make informed decisions about your financial future and select the most appropriate bankruptcy option for your needs. Bottom line: While there's usually no mandatory wait between Chapter 13 dismissal and Chapter 7 filing, you should seek professional advice to navigate your specific circumstances and protect your financial interests.

    How Can I Improve Chapter 7 Approval Chances After A Chapter 13 Dismissal

    To improve your Chapter 7 approval chances after a Chapter 13 dismissal, you need to take several strategic steps. We advise you to wait at least 180 days before filing for Chapter 7. During this time, you should focus on passing the means test by showing that your income and expenses qualify.

    It's crucial that you address the reasons for your Chapter 13 dismissal. You should resolve any outstanding tax issues and demonstrate that your financial circumstances have changed. We recommend that you gather comprehensive documentation, including income statements, asset lists, and debt records.

    While you're waiting to file, you should work on rebuilding your credit. Pay your bills on time, keep your debt-to-income ratio low, and avoid taking on new debt. It's important that you consult a bankruptcy attorney for expert guidance tailored to your specific situation.

    You need to show financial responsibility. Maintain stable employment, create and follow a budget, and save money if possible. When you file, be honest and transparent. Disclose all your assets and debts, and explain any unusual financial transactions.

    Don't forget to attend the required credit counseling and debtor education courses. These will help you prepare for your case. Before the creditors' meeting, review your case thoroughly and be ready to answer questions about your finances.

    Here are some key points to remember:

    • You should wait at least 180 days before filing for Chapter 7
    • It's crucial that you address the reasons for your Chapter 13 dismissal
    • You need to gather comprehensive documentation to support your case

    In a nutshell, if you follow these steps, you'll boost your chances of Chapter 7 approval and potential debt relief. Remember, we're here to help you navigate this process and achieve a fresh financial start.

    Below is a list of related content worth checking out:

    Privacy and Cookies
    We use cookies on our website. Your interactions and personal data may be collected on our websites by us and our partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions