When you file for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you must complete a large packet of forms. These "official bankruptcy forms" consist of:
You file many of the same forms for both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy, with a few exceptions.
Below we provide information about each of the official forms: where to find it, what type of information it requires, and general instructions on how to complete it. Remember, these documents form the crux of your bankruptcy case, so be sure to consult with an attorney, a comprehensive self-help book, or both, before you complete them.
Completing Bankruptcy Schedule A/B: Property
When filing for bankruptcy, you'll disclose your income, debts, property, and transactions on a bankruptcy petition and schedules. You'll list all of your property on Schedule A/B of the bankruptcy forms.
Completing Bankruptcy's Schedule C: The Property You Claim as Exempt
On Schedule C of the bankruptcy petition, you list all of the property you claim is exempt. A filer can protect exempt property listed on Schedule C in bankruptcy.
Completing Bankruptcy's Schedule E/F: Creditors Who Have Unsecured Claims
On Schedule E/F of the bankruptcy petition, you list all unsecured claims. Learn more.
Common Types of Real Property Ownership
When you file for bankruptcy, you must list your legal interest in your real estate, including the type of property ownership. Here are some of the common types of property ownership.
The Marital Adjustment Deduction on the Means Test
If you are filing for bankruptcy without your spouse and living separately, the marital adjustment deduction could help you qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Learn how completing Chapter 7's declaration of separate households can help you pass the means test.
How to Fill Out Bankruptcy Forms
Learn about completing the official bankruptcy forms used in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
Completing the Statement of Intention for Individuals Filing Under Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
On the Statement of Intention for Individuals Filing Under Chapter 7 (Form 108), you tell the bankruptcy trustee and secured creditors what you intend to do with secured property and unexpired leases.
The Creditor Mailing List in Bankruptcy
When you file for bankruptcy, you must list all of your creditors and their addresses on the creditor mailing list or mailing matrix. This notifies them of the bankruptcy and automatic stay.
What Happens If I Leave a Creditor off My Mailing Matrix?
Learn about the consequences of failing to list a creditor on your bankruptcy creditor mailing list and what to do to fix it.
Application for Waiver of Chapter 7 Filing Fee
If you cannot afford to pay the $335 filing fee in full or in installments, you can file an Application to Have the Chapter 7 Filing Fee Waived (Form 103B).
How to Amend a Bankruptcy Form
Amending a bankruptcy form is usually an easy process. Here's how to do it.