Here is a brief overview of the credit and financial management courses that you are required to take as part of your bankruptcy filing:

BEFORE YOU FILE
Before you can file for bankruptcy under either Chapter 7 Bankruptcy or Chapter 13 Bankruptcy, you must show proof that you completed Credit Counsel with an agency approved by the United States Trustee's office. The purpose of this counseling is to give you an idea of whether you really need to file for bankruptcy or whether an informal repayment plan would get you back on your feet. The course should include an evaluation of your personal financial situation, a discussion of alternatives to bankruptcy, and a personal budget repayment plan.  You are not required to accept any repayment plan developed in the course.

AFTER YOU FILE
Toward the end of your bankruptcy case, you'll have to attend another counseling session, this time to learn Personal Financial Management. Subjects include: developing a budget, developing better spending, wise use of credit. Only after you submit proof to the court that you fulfilled this requirement can you get a bankruptcy discharge.