—Michael Lyles, B1Daily

Filing for bankruptcy often feels out of reach for people already struggling financially, especially when attorney fees can cost thousands of dollars. Upsolve exists to remove that barrier. It is a nonprofit organization that allows eligible individuals to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy for free using guided software rather than a private attorney. For people with low income and straightforward financial situations, Upsolve offers a realistic path to debt relief.

Upsolve operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a mission to make the bankruptcy process accessible to working-class Americans. The platform uses step-by-step software to help users complete all required bankruptcy forms accurately. There is no charge to use Upsolve’s tools, and the organization does not collect hidden fees. While bankruptcy courts typically require a filing fee, many users qualify for a fee waiver, which Upsolve helps prepare.

Upsolve only supports Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Chapter 7 is designed to eliminate unsecured debts such as credit card balances, medical bills, payday loans, and personal loans. Once a case is filed, collection efforts stop, including wage garnishments and lawsuits. Most Chapter 7 cases are completed within three to four months, and filers are not required to enter a repayment plan. Upsolve is transparent about its limitations and will immediately notify users if their situation does not qualify for Chapter 7 or requires legal representation.

To begin, users first complete an eligibility screening through Upsolve’s website. This process asks basic questions about income, assets, debts, and recent financial activity. The screening ensures that only people with simple cases move forward, reducing the risk of mistakes or court dismissal. If eligible, users can proceed without delay.

After passing the screening, users create a free account using an email address. The account allows progress to be saved, giving filers the flexibility to complete the process over several sessions rather than all at once. This is especially helpful for people juggling work, family, or unstable schedules.

The next step involves gathering financial documents. Users will need proof of income such as recent pay stubs or benefit statements, tax returns from the previous two years, a complete list of debts and creditors, current bank balances, monthly living expenses, and information about assets like vehicles or property. Upsolve explains each requirement clearly and provides guidance on how to locate missing information.

Once documents are ready, users complete the bankruptcy forms through Upsolve’s guided questionnaire. The software translates legal language into plain English and automatically fills in official court forms. It also applies state-specific exemption laws, helping users protect essential property. Throughout the process, Upsolve flags common errors and omissions that frequently cause bankruptcy cases to fail.

Federal law requires all bankruptcy filers to complete a credit counseling course before filing. Upsolve directs users to approved providers and explains how to complete this requirement. Many of these providers offer free or very low-cost courses for people with limited income, ensuring that cost does not become another obstacle.

After the paperwork is complete, users download and print their bankruptcy forms. The documents must be signed and submitted to the appropriate bankruptcy court, either by mail or in person, depending on local rules. Upsolve provides detailed instructions tailored to each court, helping filers avoid procedural mistakes.

For those who cannot afford the court filing fee, Upsolve assists with preparing a fee waiver request. Courts frequently approve fee waivers for low-income filers, allowing the entire bankruptcy process to be completed without any out-of-pocket costs.

All filers must attend a meeting of creditors, commonly known as the 341 meeting. This is a brief administrative meeting with a bankruptcy trustee, not a courtroom trial. Most meetings are conducted by phone or video. Upsolve prepares users by explaining what to expect and what questions the trustee is likely to ask.

Upsolve does not provide legal representation or personalized legal advice. It does not support Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases and cannot assist individuals with complex financial situations involving large assets, business debts, recent property transfers, or ongoing litigation. In such cases, Upsolve encourages users to seek help from a bankruptcy attorney or legal aid organization.

For individuals with simple Chapter 7 cases, filing without a lawyer is both legal and common. Upsolve has helped hundreds of thousands of people successfully file for bankruptcy. Its software is built in consultation with bankruptcy attorneys and is designed to reduce the risk of errors that could lead to dismissal. However, people facing foreclosure, recent lawsuits, prior bankruptcies, or significant assets should consult a lawyer before filing.

Bankruptcy should not be a privilege limited to those who can afford expensive legal representation. Upsolve provides a free, legal, and accessible alternative for people seeking a fresh financial start. For many Americans buried under debt, Upsolve turns bankruptcy from an impossible option into a practical solution.

—Michael Lyles, B1Daily