A clearer path
through debt.
Understand the filing process, prepare for your meeting of creditors, and gather the information needed to review your options.
Discuss Your Bankruptcy OptionsThe process of filing bankruptcy.
- 1. Review your circumstances.Discuss debts, income, assets, household expenses, prior bankruptcy cases, and urgent collection matters. Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 serve different purposes; the appropriate route depends on your circumstances.
- 2. Gather records and complete intake.Prepare income records, tax returns, account statements, creditor information, and details about property and transfers. Complete the intake accurately and disclose the full financial picture.
- 3. Complete pre-filing credit counseling.Individual debtors generally must receive counseling from an approved provider within 180 days before filing. Limited exceptions need individual review.
- 4. Review and sign the filing documents.Review the petition, schedules, and required statements carefully. Resolve missing information and corrections before signing.
- 5. File the case.Filing starts the court case. An automatic stay generally limits many collection activities, but exceptions and repeat-filing rules can affect its protection.
- 6. Prepare for the 341 meeting.Provide requested documents through the designated channel and follow the trustee’s instructions. Attend the meeting and answer questions truthfully under oath.
- 7. Complete post-filing requirements.Debtor education is separate from credit counseling. Respond to requests and meet applicable deadlines. Chapter 13 also involves a repayment plan; discharge depends on satisfying the requirements of your case.
Sources: U.S. Courts Bankruptcy Basics; Credit counseling and debtor education.
Your meeting of creditors.
The 341 meeting is an opportunity for the trustee and creditors to ask questions under oath about your bankruptcy papers and financial circumstances. It is not ordinarily a hearing before the bankruptcy judge.
Before the meeting
Review your filed papers with counsel, identify corrections, and provide the requested financial and identity documents by the applicable deadlines. Follow the instructions for your assigned trustee.
On the meeting day
Confirm the meeting notice and joining instructions. For a remote meeting, test your connection and use a quiet, private location. Have your documents available and answer questions truthfully.
Read the U.S. Trustee’s current 341 meeting instructions →
Download the Chapter 7 341 Meeting Handout
For Chapter 7 clients preparing for their meeting. Confirm with the office which records have been supplied to your trustee.
Your bankruptcy intake.
An organized intake helps make the first review productive. Gather the records that describe your income, debts, property, and household expenses.
Download the fillable PDF and save a copy before completing it. Ask the office which form to use and how to return it securely. These forms request sensitive identity and financial information; do not return completed forms through a general website contact form.
Request an Intake Consultation