Help! I am considering chapter 13 for my debts

Bankruptcy 13 is not the right option for you at this stage. Have you thought about consolidating or settling the accounts with your creditors? Consolidation program will offer you a lower interest rate in paying the debts. If you are interested in settling with the creditors, the counselor will help in reducing the total amount by 40% to 60%. You need to speak with a counselor and know your best options. If any of these options don't work, chapter 13 bankruptcy will be a better option over chapter 7.

What kind of debts do you have?

Not sure you should tell them that Chpt. 13 isn't right for them without knowing the depth of their situation. Chpt. 13 isn't the end of the world, and from my own personal experience, I did not experience all of the negative impacts everybody hear states. Each situation is different. You will still be reported to the credit bureaus whether you are in a chpt. 13 or a consolidaiton/settlement program. I have been told by lenders that as long as you have been in the chpt. 13 for at least one year, and have never been late with the payments you are good. And as a matter of fact my credit is in much better shape than pre-bankruptcy. The other key is to not ruin your credit while in the program. Again, it is a personal decision for each individual, you have to decide what is best for you and your family, and sometimes chpt. 13 or chpt. 7 for that matter is the best solution.

Isacmar55 listen to what Steelers1 is telling you and follow his directions. Also remember that ch13 is a repayment plan and as long as you keep paying to the trustee on time you should not have any problem, also remember ch 7 will wipe out all the debts and give you a new start both of them will remain in your credit report for 10 yrs. But must lenders after 2 yrs will consider you for example for a home purchase, refinancing etc. Whichever you decide to file you should be ok.