All individuals have 180 days before filing for bankruptcy to complete credit counseling. Credit counseling aims to help you explore alternatives and develop a budget for future repayment of debt. Credit counseling usually involves an hour of online instruction and a phone call to discuss your financial goals. The fee is typically $50, but you can request that it be waived or paid in installments if you can’t afford it. Only companies approved by the U.S. Trustee Program may provide credit counseling for bankruptcy.