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Wisconsin Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Attorneys: Restructure Your Debt and Protect Your Future

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy in Wisconsin

Facing foreclosure, wage garnishment, or overdue bills? Our Wisconsin bankruptcy lawyers help you create manageable repayment plans and avoid asset loss through Chapter 13 protection.

For over 20 years, Debt Advisors Law Offices has provided trusted bankruptcy counsel throughout Milwaukee, Kenosha, Madison, Green Bay, Sheboygan, and Oshkosh. We’re committed to helping individuals and families rebuild their financial future.

Use our secure form to request your free consultation.

What Is Chapter 13 Bankruptcy in Wisconsin?

Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a form of debt reorganization. Unlike Chapter 7, it doesn’t involve selling your property. Instead, it allows you to create a court-approved repayment plan to pay off part or all of your debts over three to five years. This option is especially useful for individuals with regular income who want to prevent foreclosure, catch up on missed mortgage payments, or stop vehicle repossession.

In Wisconsin, Chapter 13 also puts an automatic stay on creditor actions—including collection calls, wage garnishments, and lawsuits. Once your repayment plan is in place, most unsecured debts like credit card balances and personal loans may be reduced or eliminated at the end of the term.

This type of bankruptcy is ideal for:

  • Homeowners who are behind on payments
  • People with valuable assets they want to keep
  • Those who don’t qualify for Chapter 7 due to income

Our attorneys help Wisconsin residents restructure their finances legally and effectively—without losing everything they’ve worked for.

Find out if Chapter 13 is right for you—request a free consultation today.

Am I Eligible for Chapter 13 Bankruptcy in Wisconsin?

To qualify for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you must meet a few core requirements. The process is built for individuals with a steady income who can repay debts over time.

Income Requirement

You must show that you can afford monthly payments based on your income and essential expenses. If your income is too low to maintain a repayment plan, Chapter 7 may be a better fit.

Debt Limits (2024 thresholds):

  • Unsecured debts: Less than $465,275
  • Secured debts: Less than $1,395,875

Filing History

You must not have had a Chapter 13 case dismissed in the past 180 days due to willful noncompliance or fraud.

Quick Eligibility Checklist:

  • Do you have consistent monthly income?
  • Are your debts within the legal limits?
  • Do you want to stop foreclosure or repossession?
  • Can you commit to a 3–5 year repayment plan?

If you answered “yes” to most of the above, you may be eligible.

Schedule a free review with Debt Advisors Law Offices. We’ll confirm your eligibility and guide you through the next steps.

How the Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Process Works in Wisconsin

Filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Wisconsin follows a structured, court-supervised process that typically lasts three to five years. Here’s how it works:

Step-by-Step Timeline

  1. Credit Counseling: Before filing, you must complete a certified credit counseling course (online or phone, usually under $50).
  2. Petition Filing: Your attorney prepares and files your bankruptcy petition with the Eastern or Western District of Wisconsin court.
  3. Automatic Stay Begins: This legal protection immediately halts creditor actions—foreclosure, repossession, wage garnishment, and more.
  4. Repayment Plan Submitted: Within 14 days of filing, you propose a repayment plan detailing how you’ll pay debts over 36–60 months.
  5. 341 Meeting of Creditors: You’ll attend a short meeting with your trustee and creditors ~30–45 days after filing.
  6. Plan Confirmation: The bankruptcy judge approves your plan, and you begin monthly payments through a trustee.
  7. Discharge: After successful completion, remaining dischargeable debts are eliminated, and you exit bankruptcy with a clean slate.

We handle everything—from paperwork to court appearances—ensuring compliance with all Wisconsin-specific rules.

What Assets Can You Keep in Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

One of the biggest advantages of Chapter 13 bankruptcy is that you typically don’t have to give up your assets. Unlike Chapter 7, where non-exempt property may be liquidated, Chapter 13 allows you to catch up on overdue debts while retaining your home, car, and other valuables.

Key Wisconsin Exemptions (2024)

  • Homestead: Up to $75,000 in equity in your primary residence
  • Vehicle: Up to $4,000 in equity
  • Personal Property: Up to $12,000 (includes household goods and furnishings)
  • Wildcard: $1,225 (can be applied to any asset)
  • Retirement Accounts: Fully protected under federal ERISA guidelines
  • Social Security & Public Benefits: Fully exempt

These exemptions apply whether you choose Wisconsin’s state system or the federal exemption system—your attorney will help you select the option that protects the most.

How We Help

At Debt Advisors Law Offices, we tailor your Chapter 13 plan to maximize exemptions while prioritizing your most essential assets. Our goal is to help you get out of debt without losing what matters most.

Why Wisconsin Clients Trust Debt Advisors with Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

When filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Wisconsin, experience matters. At Debt Advisors Law Offices, we’ve helped thousands of clients restructure their debt while protecting their homes, vehicles, and wages. For over 20 years, our firm has provided personalized, effective bankruptcy services backed by a proven track record.

Why Clients Choose Us

  • 20+ years of Chapter 13 experience across Wisconsin
  • A+ BBB Rating and consistently high client reviews
  • Recognized in “Best of Milwaukee” for legal services
  • Flexible installment-based legal fees

From Madison to Kenosha, Oshkosh to Sheboygan, our attorneys deliver hands-on legal support throughout every stage of the Chapter 13 process. We don’t just file your paperwork—we create a clear strategy to help you protect your assets, reduce your stress, and rebuild your financial life.

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Serving Clients Across Wisconsin

With multiple offices across the state, Debt Advisors Law Offices makes Chapter 13 bankruptcy support accessible no matter where you live in Wisconsin. Each location is staffed by experienced bankruptcy attorneys who understand the unique challenges faced by individuals and families in their local communities.

📍 Find Your Nearest Office

  • Milwaukee – Our flagship office serving the Milwaukee community for over 20 years with deep local legal insight.
  • Downtown Milwaukee – Located in the heart of the city for easy access to residents and small businesses near East Town and the Historic Third Ward.
  • Kenosha – Near the Dinosaur Discovery Museum, our Kenosha office is easily accessible from I-94 and offers solutions for clients with cross-border financial issues.
  • Madison – Close to the state capitol, our Madison team has deep knowledge of Wisconsin-specific bankruptcy protections.
  • Green Bay – Positioned near I-41 and Highway 44, we provide Chapter 13 support to small business owners and families in Northeast Wisconsin.
  • Sheboygan – Minutes from I-43 and Lake Michigan, this boutique location delivers personal service with experienced attorneys.
  • Oshkosh – At W. 6th Avenue and Oregon Street, our Fox Valley office helps individuals facing debt with tailored Chapter 13 plans.

Explore our locations and schedule your free consultation.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy – Common Questions Answered

We understand that filing for Chapter 13 can feel overwhelming. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions from our Wisconsin clients:

How long does Chapter 13 bankruptcy take to complete?

Chapter 13 typically takes three to five years, depending on your court-approved repayment plan. Once complete, any remaining eligible debt is discharged.

Can I keep my home and car during Chapter 13?

Yes. Chapter 13 allows you to keep your home and vehicle as long as you stay current on your repayment plan and mortgage or car loan.

What debts are included in the repayment plan?

The plan covers mortgage arrears, car loans, taxes, credit cards, medical bills, and personal loans. Priority debts (like taxes and child support) are paid first.

Will Chapter 13 stop a foreclosure or repossession?

Yes. Filing initiates an automatic stay that stops foreclosure, repossession, and most creditor actions immediately.

Can I file jointly with my spouse?

Absolutely. Filing jointly can protect marital property and may simplify your financial restructuring if both spouses are in debt.

How does Chapter 13 affect my credit?

It remains on your report for up to 7 years, but many clients start rebuilding credit within 12–18 months by paying bills on time and using secured credit tools.

What if my financial situation changes during repayment?

You can request plan modifications. If your income drops significantly, courts may approve a lower payment or convert the case to Chapter 7 if eligible.

Contact Debt Advisors Law Offices Today

Filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy can be the turning point in your financial journey. With a structured repayment plan, you can stop creditor harassment, avoid foreclosure, and keep your most important assets—all while working toward a debt-free future.

At Debt Advisors, our experienced attorneys provide clear, compassionate guidance tailored to your situation.

Schedule your free, no-obligation consultation online today.

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