Ben Jackson - J.D.

Ben Jackson, J.D., is a legal tech fellow and co-founder of Upsolve who overcame $60,000 in personal debt through bankruptcy before earning his law degree from Chicago-Kent College of Law and building the tool he wished had existed. Ben also earned a certificate in Legal Tech and Innovation and had a fellowship from Equal Justice America and The Kent Justice Foundation.

All ArticlesBankruptcy BasicsBefore FilingCarsChapter 13Chapter 7Consumer RightsDebtsDeciding To FileDuring Bankruptcy CaseHow To FileMeans TestNondischargeable DebtsProperty ExemptionsStudent LoansTaxes

Articles written by Ben Jackson

How To Pick a DIY Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Software

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 14, 2026

Filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy on your own is possible, and many people choose this DIY route to save money and stay in control. This guide breaks down the most popular bankruptcy software options available, including free and low-cost tools. You'll learn how each one works, what features to look for, and how to decide which is right for your situation. If you're eligible, Upsolve offers a free online tool to help you file without hiring a lawyer.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated September 16, 2025

If you’ve been a Florida resident for at least two years and you file Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you’ll need to use the state’s exemptions to protect your property. Exemptions are laws that outline how much of different kinds of property are protected when you file a bankruptcy case. Most filers see that all their property is protected. In Florida, the homestead exemption protects all the equity you have in your home, given you meet a few criteria. The motor vehicle exemption is $5,000, and if you don’t use the homestead exemption, you can apply the $4,000 wildcard exemption to your vehicle (or any other property) as well.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 14, 2026

Before you can file for bankruptcy, you must complete a credit counseling course from an approved provider. The course usually costs $10–$50, but many people qualify to take it for free with a fee waiver based on income. You can request a fee waiver when you sign up by asking the agency if it’s available. If approved, you can complete the course at no cost and receive your required certificate.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated September 8, 2025

You can file Chapter 7 bankruptcy even if you're unemployed or have no income — and many people do. Unemployment benefits usually won’t disqualify you, and some costs, like court fees, may be waived if your income is low enough. Filing triggers an automatic stay that can protect you from wage garnishment and collection calls while you focus on getting back on your feet. Timing matters, though — filing too soon could leave you with new debt you can’t discharge later.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated August 12, 2025

What follows is a step by step guide on how to add a creditor after filing bankruptcy. The process for this is often very specific and differs from district to district, but there are some things that are the same across the board. If you're an Upsolve user, you can use the case editor and the self-service amendment feature to update your forms.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated August 27, 2025

If you want to get your federal student loan debt discharged as part of your bankruptcy case, you’ll need to file an adversary proceeding (AP). An AP is a legal process used in bankruptcy court to resolve specific issues or disputes that arise during a bankruptcy case. Due to changes in late 2022, APs for federal student loan discharge may look different than other APs. Under the 2022 guidance, discharge proceedings are meant to be simpler and more efficient for bankruptcy filers. If you’re filing an adversary proceeding to discharge federal student loans, you may be able to handle it yourself, without hiring an attorney. This article explains how APs work for bankruptcy filers seeking to discharge student loan debt through bankruptcy.

Written by Ben Jackson.
Written May 2, 2025

A note from our co-founder, Ben Jackson, on how Upsolve's free Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing tool works.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 27, 2025

Exemptions help you protect your property and assets in bankruptcy. There are both state and federal exemptions, but Arizona has opted out of the federal bankruptcy exemptions. That means, if you’ve lived in Arizona for at least two years when you file your bankruptcy case, you have to use Arizona's exemption laws. Arizona has a generous homestead exemption of $250,000. The motor vehicle exemption is $15,000 for single filers (or $25,000 if you or a dependent is disabled). Arizona does not have a wildcard exemption.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated March 5, 2025

A bankruptcy discharge is a court order that permanently eliminates your legal obligation to repay certain debts. It also prevents creditors from trying to collect them. In Chapter 7 bankruptcy, filers are typically discharged within a few months. In Chapter 13, the bankruptcy discharge occurs after you complete a 3–5-year repayment plan. Most unsecured debts like credit cards, medical bills, and personal loans can be discharged. Some debts — such as child support, alimony, and recent taxes — can’t. Once you receive your discharge, you can focus on rebuilding your financial future by checking your credit report, creating a budget, and using credit responsibly.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated August 27, 2025

PACER stands for Public Access to Court Electronic Records. It’s a system to access case information, the docket, and the documents filed in a particular case electronically.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated August 12, 2025

Bankruptcy can eliminate some IRS tax debt, but it depends on the type of tax debt and how long you’ve owed it. Chapter 7 bankruptcy can wipe out older income tax debt if it meets strict IRS rules. If your tax debt doesn’t qualify for discharge, Chapter 13 bankruptcy may still help by stopping IRS collection efforts and setting up a structured repayment plan that can help you get back on track. Even if bankruptcy can’t erase your tax debt, it can give you breathing room by pausing IRS actions like wage garnishment and bank levies. If you’re struggling with tax debt, understanding your options can help you find the best path forward.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated October 2, 2024

Chapter 13 can be a helpful way for some people to reorganize and repay their debts. It’s often used by homeowners or people who own expensive property or assets they want to hang on to. But Chapter 13 requires a 3–5-year repayment plan, and many people aren’t able to successfully complete that plan. Also, it’s really difficult to file Chapter 13 successfully without a lawyer.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated December 18, 2025

It's not easy to discharge most tickets and government fines in bankruptcy. Though it depends on what the tickets or fine was assessed for, many tickets and fines are non-dischargeable debts. That means you have to repay them even if your bankruptcy case is successful in discharging other debts like credit card or medical bills. That said, filing Chapter 13 bankruptcy can be a good way to manage non-dischargeable fines and fees. It can also help you get your driver’s license reinstated if it’s been suspended due to unpaid fines.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated December 18, 2025

An automatic stay is a powerful protection that kicks in as soon as you file for bankruptcy. It stops most creditors from trying to collect debts. This means they can't call you, send letters, garnish your wages, or start or continue lawsuits against you. The protection lasts until your Chapter 7 bankruptcy case ends or the court lifts the stay.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated June 26, 2025

Some states permit filers to choose between a set of federal bankruptcy exemptions and the state exemption system. However, California isn’t one of them. California is called an “opt-out” state, which means federal bankruptcy exemptions are not available to filers in the state. Californians filing bankruptcy have to use California exemption law.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated September 3, 2025

Bankruptcy can be a helpful tool for seniors facing unmanageable debt, especially those living on fixed incomes with little to no assets. Chapter 7 is often the best fit for older adults who need fast relief from credit cards, medical bills, or personal loans — without risking important property. But bankruptcy isn’t always necessary, especially if your income is protected and your assets are limited. This guide explains the pros and cons, how to choose between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13, and what alternatives to consider if bankruptcy doesn’t feel right for you.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 8, 2026

Chapter 13 bankruptcy is the second most common type of personal bankruptcy after Chapter 7. You’ll need to take several steps to file Chapter 13, and after you file your case, you’ll stick with a 3–5-year repayment plan to get a successful discharge. Because Chapter 13 is complicated, it’s advisable to hire a bankruptcy attorney to help you file your case. Most people who represent themselves in Chapter 13 cases aren’t successful.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated March 11, 2025

There are six different types of bankruptcies. Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 are the most common types of personal bankruptcy. Chapter 7 is also called a liquidation. It allows the filer to get rid of most of their debts without repaying anything. It works best for individuals without assets like a home. Chapter 13 bankruptcy puts the filer on a repayment plan and can help protect assets like a home. The goal of personal bankruptcies like Chapter 7 and 13 is to give the filer a financial fresh start and relieve them of debt they may never be able to repay. Businesses, farmers, and municipalities can also file bankruptcy under Chapters 9, 11, 12, and 15. These less common types of bankruptcy may be used to restructure or reorganize debt.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated October 22, 2025

The docket is a case record prepared and maintained by the clerk of the court during a Chapter 7 bankruptcy case. Learn what common docket entries mean for your case.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated July 28, 2025

While you’re not required to hire a lawyer to file a bankruptcy case, you may want legal assistance. If so, there are several resources you can use to find an affordable bankruptcy attorney, including your state bar association’s website, the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys, or a local legal aid organization. Many bankruptcy lawyers also offer a free consultation for prospective clients. You can get free legal advice during the consultation and learn more about the lawyer’s fees and options for paying them.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated March 14, 2026

You can file for bankruptcy even after being served with a lawsuit or having a judgment entered against you. Bankruptcy offers a way to manage overwhelming debt and protect yourself from further legal action. Once you file, most lawsuits are paused through an automatic stay. This process can provide the relief and fresh financial start you need.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated December 18, 2025

A co-debtor is someone who took out a loan with you. In doing so, they agreed to be equally responsible for repaying the loan or debt. If you have debts with co-debtors and don't reaffirm the debt in a Chapter 7 case, your co-debtor will be solely responsible for repaying the debt if you get a bankruptcy discharge. If you file Chapter 13 bankruptcy, the automatic stay will protect both you and the co-debtor so long as you make the payments outlined in your repayment plan.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated February 4, 2020

Much of the bankruptcy process is the same for people who are a full-time employee and people who are contractors. However, there are a few differences. When your income is not regular or easily predicted, you must demonstrate that you are eligible to file and ensure that it makes sense to file when you do.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated October 29, 2025

Retirement accounts are almost always protected in a bankruptcy case. If you're considering filing, it’s best to keep your retirement assets where they are. Unless you can fully pay off all of your debts, taking money out of your retirement accounts to keep up usually only prolongs the inevitable.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated December 19, 2025

Priority debts are certain types of unsecured debts that are treated as more important in bankruptcy. They’re paid before other unsecured debts if there’s money available and often can’t be wiped out in Chapter 7. Common examples include child support, recent taxes, and unpaid wages. Even in a no-asset case where nothing gets paid, these debts can survive the bankruptcy and still need to be repaid.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated September 10, 2025

If you're overwhelmed by debt collectors and collection agencies calling you to collect a debt, it can seem as though you'll never be able to remember who they all are. But, it's important to give the bankruptcy court a list of all of your creditors, so here are some steps you can take to make sure you didn't miss anyone.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated April 29, 2025

Virginia bankruptcy exemptions let you keep certain property—like your home, car, and household items—when you file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. These exemptions are grouped by category and have dollar limits that protect the value of specific types of property, including personal items, wages, and public benefits. Unlike some states, Virginia does not let you choose between state and federal bankruptcy exemptions—you must use the Virginia list. If your property falls within these exemption limits, you can likely keep it, even while clearing away your unsecured debts. Understanding how exemptions work can help you protect the things that matter most as you get a fresh financial start.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated September 17, 2025

Many people worry that filing bankruptcy will have a negative impact on their housing, job, and other important opportunities. The truth is that the vast majority of bankruptcy filers keep their day-to-day lives intact without issue. The law protects you from being fired for filing bankruptcy, and you can still receive public benefits.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated August 21, 2025

Bankruptcy and divorce often go hand in hand, and the order in which you file them can affect your debts, your property, and the legal process. Filing bankruptcy before, during, or after divorce changes what property you can protect and whether you’ll need to work with your spouse on bankruptcy paperwork. Chapter 7 offers a faster fresh start, while Chapter 13 can help repay certain debts over time, including some from a divorce. Knowing how these processes interact can help you avoid delays, protect assets, and make a smoother transition.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated August 26, 2025

When you’re trying to figure out the best debt relief option, first consider how much debt you have, whether you want to call in outside help or support, how quickly you’re hoping to repay the debt, and how important your credit score is to you right now. You have several debt-relief strategies available to you, and each has its pros and cons.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated August 25, 2025

Yes, you can file bankruptcy even if you’re in or were in a debt relief program such as a debt management plan. Once you file your bankruptcy case with the court, you can stop making the payments under the debt relief plan you’re in (if you haven’t already). Once the bankruptcy court grants your discharge, you won’t have to worry about repaying the debts included in your case. Many people can benefit from other debt-relief options before filing bankruptcy, but sometimes bankruptcy is the best choice to meet your financial goals and take control of your debt.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated March 11, 2026

If you receive a summons and complaint from a debt collector or creditor, it means you’re being sued for unpaid debt. It’s important to respond to (or answer) the lawsuit. You do this by filing official paperwork with the court. Be sure to address every point in the complaint, raise any defenses you have, and file the paperwork within the time frame provided. Debt collectors are counting on you not to answer the lawsuit so that they can win by default. Don’t be intimidated! Take control and learn how to file an answer by reading this guide. You do not need an attorney to answer a debt collection lawsuit successfully.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated April 23, 2025

Bankruptcy exemptions are rules that allow people who file for bankruptcy to keep certain important items instead of having to sell them to repay their debts. If you’re filing bankruptcy in Ohio, you must use the state’s exemptions to protect your property. Ohio has a homestead exemption of up to $182,625 for individual filers, a $5,025 motor vehicle exemption, and a $1,675 wildcard exemption. It also has exemptions for personal property and money benefits.

Written by Attorney Andrea Wimmer, Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated April 28, 2025

Filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy in North Carolina can give you a fresh financial start by wiping out debts like credit cards, medical bills, and payday loans. This guide walks you through the process step by step — from gathering documents and taking required courses to filling out forms and going to court. You’ll learn how to file without a lawyer, save on legal fees, and understand what to expect at every stage. While Upsolve’s free filing tool isn’t available in North Carolina right now, this article gives you the tools and resources you need to navigate the process on your own.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated September 16, 2025

Texas law generally protects your wages from garnishment for consumer debts like credit cards and medical bills. Only certain debts — including child support, unpaid taxes, and federal student loans — can lead to wage garnishment in the state. However, creditors may still try to collect by garnishing your bank account if they have a court judgment. If you're facing overwhelming debt or garnishment, options like bankruptcy or legal aid may offer relief and guidance.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated September 10, 2025

Wage garnishment in Ohio is a legal process where a portion of your paycheck can be taken to repay unpaid debts like credit cards, medical bills, or personal loans. Most creditors must first sue you in court and get a judgment before they can garnish your wages. Both federal and Ohio laws limit how much of your income can be taken and offer protections for certain types of income

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated March 14, 2026

Wage garnishment in Tennessee allows a creditor to take money directly from your paycheck to repay a debt, but most creditors must first sue you and get a court judgment. After that, the court can issue a garnishment order, which tells your employer to withhold part of your pay. Both federal and Tennessee laws limit how much can be taken and offer some extra protection if you have dependent children.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated May 9, 2026

If you're dealing with debt that feels impossible to get out from under, Chapter 7 bankruptcy may be the fresh start you need. It can erase eligible debts like credit cards, medical bills, and payday loans — and many Idahoans file without a lawyer or any filing costs. This guide covers everything you need to know to file in Idaho.

Written by Attorney Andrea Wimmer, Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated June 8, 2026

If you're dealing with debt that feels impossible to get out from under, Chapter 7 bankruptcy may be the fresh start you need. It can erase eligible debts like credit cards, medical bills, and payday loans — and many Alabamians file without a lawyer or any filing costs. This guide covers everything you need to know to file in Alabama.