Are you preparing to meet with a bankruptcy lawyer to file for Chapter 13? Chapter 13 is different from a Chapter 7 case, so you should learn as much as you can about it before filing. Once you file, you may wonder if there are any tips you can follow that will help you get through it. Fortunately, there are. Here are four tips that will help you complete your Chapter 13 case.

1. Understand the Repayment Plan

The first thing you must do is understand the repayment plan you must follow for your case. Find out how much the payments are, the frequency of the payments, and the number of payments. Understanding the repayment plan will help you follow it according to its setup. You cannot miss any of your payments during the entire case; if you do, you may face some consequences. One consequence of this is that the trustee could dismiss your case while you are going through it. If this happens, you will have to start over.

2. Remember That It's Temporary

Secondly, you should remember that the plan is temporary. Most Chapter 13 plans last for five years. While five years is a long time, it is not forever. If you can make it through the five years without missing any payments, you will find yourself in a much better financial position. At this point, you will be glad you completed it.

3. Update the Trustee When Necessary

Next, you should learn the rules that relate to updates the trustee needs. The trustee and your lawyer will explain these rules to you, and you must follow them. One rule is that you must update the trustee if you get a pay change through your job. You must also notify the trustee if you lose your job or switch jobs.

4. Amend Your Plan If Needed

Finally, you should know that you can adjust your plan during your case if needed. If, for example, you lose your job and have to take a lower-earning job to survive, the trustee may agree to lower your payments on your Chapter 13 case.

Your repayment plan for a Chapter 13 case will last up to five years. If you finish the plan, you will have an improved financial position at the end. To learn more about how this plan works, contact a Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer such as C. Taylor Crockett, P.C. today.