Need more information about this automatic stay

[Flowers]

I know what it is is: protection.
But how long is it in effect? Until the discharge?

I am already behind on some expenses: utilities and a few car payments....am I covered for a while with this stay? As I just filed last week?

[Nicollette]

I'm not sure if an automatic stay will cover you for past due utility bills. If your car is included in your BK, then the automatic stay should cover that unless the creditor for your car might motion to have the automatic stay lifted. Did you file a Ch 7 or 13?

[Flowers]

The car is actually a lease, so I am not sure how that works.
I filed a chapter 7, even though my income is over the means, but I did not have the excess funds for a monthly chapter 13 payment.

[justbroke]

The Automatic Stay protects you from past due utility bills, if you listed them. They are summarily part of your discharge.

Utility companies will generally start a new utility account for you. They may also demand a deposit which you have to pay within 20 days. Generally, they give you more time than 20 days... seeing how you just filed.

This is all covered under Bankruptcy code 11 USC 366.