Deciding to file bankruptcy isn't a decision that comes lightly. There is a lot of thought that goes into it. But, how do you file chapter 13 bankruptcy if you decide it's the best plan for your financial future. Here's a brief overview. Please note that you cannot file for bankruptcy unless you've completed approved credit counseling within 180 days prior of when you plan to file. Once you've completed the counseling the next thing is to file a petition with the court. Along with the petition you must submit a schedule of all information pertinent to your assets and liabilities, your current monthly income and expenditures, and a list of all your debts. There will be a mandatory fee imposed to file. That's really all there is to it. As long as you've filed all the necessary paperwork your case will be entered into the court record, and your bankruptcy claim is officially filed.