Normally, 8 years have passed since the last chapter 7 or 11 petition was filed.
A chapter 7 discharge is only available to people who have followed the bankruptcy laws. For the next 8 years following the filing of the first chapter 7 bankruptcy, the person is not eligible for another chapter 7 or chapter 11 bankruptcy discharge. 727(a)(8). The discharge can be withdrawn if the debtor commits fraud or fails to comply as required by law. Even if a chapter 7 bankruptcy is not an option, the debtor may be eligible to file a chapter 13 bankruptcy.