What happens before, during and after bankruptcy[click circles to view timeline stages] How it worksClick on each of the circles in the above illustration. Each circle will provide the details of what you can expect at that point in time, from the point of declaring bankruptcy to 6 months into bankruptcy and 10 years forward.This Bankrate bankruptcy timeline should be considered a guide, not a road map. In most cases, the timing is approximate and will vary based on the filer's individual circumstances. | > Create a news alert for "debt" RESOURCESBankruptcy: Before you fileBankruptcy: When you fileBankruptcy: After you file TOP STORIESWhat, exactly, is 'good' creditBrokered CDs: What happens if bank fails?New Fed rules tighten mortgage practices Compare RatesNATIONAL OVERNIGHT AVERAGES$30K HELOC4.70%Personal loan14.07%$30K Home equity loan7.55%Rates may include pointsADVERTISING PARTNERS advertisementRelated Links:Manage or settle debt?Modify Ch. 13 bankruptcyBad credit? Fix it yourselfRelated Articles:Financial plan dumps debtChapter 7's stark choiceFixing bad credit