How long after bankruptcy can you get a mortgage?

It depends on the chapter and the loan program. From a Chapter 7 discharge: FHA and VA about 2 years, USDA about 3, conventional about 4. Chapter 13: as little as ~1 year into the plan for FHA/VA with court approval. Rebuilt credit and clean reporting can make you approval-ready the moment the waiting period ends.

Short answer: Mortgage timing after bankruptcy depends on the chapter, discharge or dismissal date, loan type, credit rebuilt since filing, and lender overlays. Before applying, review Chapter 7 mortgage readiness, Chapter 13 mortgage readiness, and run a Credit Diagnosis if the report has unresolved bankruptcy-related errors.

The waiting-period matrix

ProgramAfter Chapter 7 dischargeChapter 13
FHA~2 years~12 months into plan, with approval
VA~2 years~12 months into plan, with approval
USDA~3 years~12 months into plan
Conventional~4 years (2 with extenuating circumstances)~2 years from discharge

"Extenuating circumstances" can shorten the wait

Some programs reduce the waiting period when the bankruptcy was caused by a documented one-time event outside your control (for example a job loss or medical crisis) rather than financial mismanagement. Documentation is required and approval isn't guaranteed.

Be ready when the clock ends

The waiting period is fixed, but your readiness isn't. Use the time to rebuild positive credit and correct any inaccurate post-bankruptcy reporting so that, the day you're eligible, your score and report support approval. Pinnacle's forensic audit handles the reporting side — fixed fee, charged after work, results vary.

FAQ

What's the FHA waiting period after Chapter 7?

FHA typically requires about two years after a Chapter 7 discharge, and may allow less with documented extenuating circumstances and re-established credit.

Can extenuating circumstances shorten the waiting period?

For some programs, yes - a documented one-time event outside your control can reduce the wait. You must provide documentation and approval is not guaranteed.

Does the waiting period start at filing or discharge?

For Chapter 7 it generally runs from the discharge date. For Chapter 13, government programs may count on-time plan payments while conventional runs from discharge.

What should I do during the waiting period?

Rebuild positive credit, keep utilization low and payments perfect, avoid new derogatories, and correct any inaccurate reporting so you're approval-ready when eligible.