Individuals or married couples can file for chapter 11. But since the chapter 11 bankruptcy code procedures can get very complicated, it makes more sense for non-businesses to pursue either a chapter 7 liquidation or a chapter 13 repayment plan. Individuals may not file for bankruptcy protection at all if either: In the last 180 days, the court dismissed a prior bankruptcy petition because of the person's willful failure to follow court orders or appear at court; or In the last 180 days, a prior bankruptcy petition was voluntarily dismissed after lien-holding creditors sought relief from the court; or In the last 180 days, the person did not complete a credit counseling course from an approved agency.