Timing of bankruptcy discharges varies depending on the chapter under which a case was filed. In Chapter 7 cases, courts typically grant discharges promptly on expiration of times fixed for filing complaints objecting to discharges and the time fixed for filing a motion to dismiss the case for substantial abuse, usually about four months after the date a person files a petition with the clerk of the bankruptcy court. In Chapter 13 cases, the court will grant a discharge as soon as practicable after a person completes all payments under their repayment plan. Because a Chapter 13 plan provides for payments to be made over three to five years, a discharge often occurs around four years after the date of filing.