Filing for Bankruptcy
What forms do you need? Will you need a bankruptcy lawyer? Find out here.
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Once you decide to file for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, the next step is to learn about the filing process. The articles below will help make the process more manageable.
Filing decisions and prebankruptcy planning. To start, it's often wise to do some prebankruptcy planning. Some filing decisions can have a big impact on your case, for example, deciding if you should file individually or jointly with your spouse. And it's always a good idea to learn what things to avoid so you don't sabotage your bankruptcy from the outset.
Gathering documents and completing the forms. Next you'll have to complete and file a thick packet of forms comprised of the bankruptcy petition, schedules, other forms, and certain documents. We'll tell you what forms and documents you'll need, where to find them, and what other requirements you need to know about.
Getting help. Should you hire an attorney? The articles below will help you make that decision. If you do want legal representation, learn the best way to find and hire an attorney. If you decide to file for bankruptcy without an attorney, find out what resources are available to help you with the process.
Start here to learn about filing for Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
Here are the basic steps in a Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
Here are the basic steps in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
If you need to file for bankruptcy quickly, you can file several forms to start, and the rest within 14 days. This is called an emergency bankruptcy.
Learn when and why you might convert your case from Chapter 13 to Chapter 7.
Sometimes converting from Chapter 7 to Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a good idea.
If you file bankruptcy too soon after you have received a previous bankruptcy discharge, you cannot receive another discharge.
In a Chapter 20 bankruptcy, you file Chapter 7 first, and then Chapter 13. This offers some unique advantages.
Here are some important issues to consider before you file for bankruptcy
Articles and Q&As on when it's best to file right away, and when you might want to delay your bankruptcy filing.
Find out how to maximize your exemptions and financial transactions to avoid prior to your bankruptcy.
Here you'll find information you need before you complete the forms, and general information and instructions for each of the official bankruptcy forms.
Get information about filing costs, finding the forms, state and regional figures you'll need for the forms, and more.
Here you'll find articles on each of the official bankruptcy forms: information you'll need to provide, and how to fill them out.
Amending a bankruptcy form is usually an easy process. Here's how to do it.
In bankruptcy, you must get credit and debt counseling two separate times.
Click on the link to get details on how to complete the credit counseling and debtor education requirements for bankruptcy.
Information on filing for bankruptcy in each of the 50 states and D.C.
Get bankruptcy information specific to your state.
Get the resources you need to file on your own, find out how to hire a lawyer, and learn about bankruptcy petition preparers.
Here you'll find on articles on finding and hiring a lawyer, using a BPP, and how to file without a lawyer.
If you paid money to a creditor before you filed bankruptcy, the bankruptcy trustee may be able to get this money back.
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