The debtor’s attorney will present a repayment plan to the bankruptcy trustee. This plan will be based on the debtor’s monthly income and will provide for greatly reduced payment of debts for a 3-5 year period. If the debtor's current monthly income is less than the applicable state median, the plan will be for three years unless the court approves a longer period "for cause." If the debtor's current monthly income is greater than the applicable state median, the plan generally must be for five years. During the payment plan the creditors are prohibited from taking any collection actions against the debtor.