|
Q.What documents must I prepare to file bankruptcy?
A.The new bankruptcy laws have significantly increased the amount of paperwork that must be completed, organized and filed along with a Chapter 7 or 13 bankruptcy petition. Within 45 days of filing a bankruptcy petition, the bankruptcy filer or his or her attorney must submit: (1) detailed information about the bankruptcy petitioner's background and financial history, (2) a complete listing of the petitioner’s assets and liabilities, (3) detailed income and expense statements, (4) declarations concerning the petitioner's financial condition, (5) details of any debt repayment plans the debtor has entered, (6) completed and filed tax returns, (7) pay stubs and (8) a statement of any anticipated increase in income. These are just a few of the required forms and some of the information a person filing for bankruptcy must provide.
If the above listed documentation is not filed within 45 days after filing the bankruptcy petition, the bankruptcy case will be automatically dismissed and the bankruptcy filer will have to re-file.
To file your bankruptcy petition, pleadings and other papers you must first complete, assemble, and two hole punch the top center of the original and all required copies of the bankruptcy papers. You may then deliver them with the filing fee payment, or a completed application to pay the fees in installments, to by mail or in person to the appropriate Clerk`s Office (check the phone book or local bar association for the nearest federal bankruptcy court). The Clerk`s Office will file stamp and return one copy to you. If your petition is mailed, you must include a self-addressed, stamped envelope sufficient in size to hold your file stamped copy.
For more information on what forms you'll need to file for bankruptcy, contact a local qualified bankruptcy attorney.
|
|
