Once an individual or couple realize that bankruptcy is the only option to deal with their financial situation, they must then decide whether to choose Chapter 7 or Chapter 13. For most people, Chapter 7 is the preferred alternative. A Chapter 7 can generally be completed in roughly 4 months. By contrast a Chapter 13 normally will run a minimum of 36 months and could extend to 60 months. A Chapter 7 does not involve a payment plan and generally does not require the individual to surrender assets to trustee. By contrast, a Chapter 13 requires a regular payment to a trustee for the full term of the plan.
