what documents do i need to take with me to a bankruptcy lawyer in california

by Jess Murazik 4 min read

If you and your attorney decide to go forward with your case, you likely will be provided with a detailed checklist of all the other myriad documents needed, such as loan payoffs, copies of titles, copies of tax returns, six months of pay advices, deeds of trust, proof of insurance, and on and on.

Documents Needed To File Chapter 7
  • Your tax returns.
  • Pay stubs.
  • Appraisals of your home, jewelry, and other exempt assets.
  • Your car titles.
  • Evidence of child support/alimony obligations.
  • Bank statements.
  • Proof that you took credit counseling.
Jun 30, 2021

Full Answer

What documents do I need to file for bankruptcy?

Listed below is a more expansive list of documents that you should bring during the first meetings with a bankruptcy lawyer: All financial documents, including bank account statements, receipts for major purchases, wage statements, and tax returns;

What should I bring to my bankruptcy meeting?

Feb 28, 2018 · What Documents You’ll Need If You File Chapter 7 or Chapter 13. If you and your attorney decide to go forward with your case, you likely will be provided with a detailed checklist of all the other myriad documents needed, such as loan payoffs, copies of titles, copies of tax returns, six months of pay advices, deeds of trust, proof of insurance, and on and on.

What are the steps to file bankruptcy?

Sep 17, 2018 ¡ This includes a list of documents that are also included in the chapter 7 bankruptcy document checklist: Consumer Credit Counseling certificate Bankruptcy packet with revenue and expenditures. Photo Identification and Social Security Card. Income proof for the last 6 months. Bank account statements for the last 3 months.

What forms do I need to file a chapter 13 bankruptcy?

Your bankruptcy attorney will need those statements to list address, account numbers and total amounts due to creditors to ensure they receive proper notice of your filing. Lawsuit or foreclosure paperwork – If you have been sued by a creditor, it is important to submit a copy of this paperwork to your bankruptcy attorney. This will ensure the lawsuit is listed and that …

How do I prepare for a bankruptcy meeting?

0:195:35Bankruptcy Meeting of Creditors Preparation - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFirst it's really important to bring a photo ID. So a driver's license or passport.MoreFirst it's really important to bring a photo ID. So a driver's license or passport.

How much cash can you keep when filing Chapter 7 in California?

The answer is no: some cash can be exempted in a Chapter 7 case. For example, typically under Federal exemptions, you can have approximately $20,000.00 cash on hand or in the bank on the day you file bankruptcy.

How much does filing for bankruptcy cost in California?

How can I pay for filing for bankruptcy? It costs $299.00 to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy in the state of California, and it costs $274.00 to file Chapter 13 bankruptcy.

What is the means test for Chapter 7 in California?

If your total monthly income over the course of the next 60 months is less than $7,475 then you pass the means test and you may file a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. If it is over $12,475 then you fail the means test and don't have the option of filing Chapter 7.

Do they freeze your bank account when you file Chapter 7?

Non-Exempt Funds in Checking Accounts An individual filing for bankruptcy under Chapter 7 may face an account freeze by a bank. You can let the bankruptcy trustee know about the freeze and ask them to get the bank to release the freeze.Oct 18, 2021

What happens to your bank account when you file Chapter 7?

In most Chapter 7 bankruptcy cases, nothing happens to the filer's bank account. As long as the money in your account is protected by an exemption, your bankruptcy filing won't affect it.Mar 21, 2022

What is the downside of filing for bankruptcy?

Disadvantages of Bankruptcy: A bankruptcy may impede your chances of getting a mortgage or car loan for some time. Not all debt will be discharged. Examples of debt that cannot be discharged include child support, alimony, some student loans, divorce settlements and some income taxes.

What's the difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy?

The biggest difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 is that Chapter 7 focuses on discharging (getting rid of) unsecured debt such as credit cards, personal loans and medical bills while Chapter 13 allows you to catch up on secured debts like your home or your car while also discharging unsecured debt.

What is California debt relief?

What are the benefits? Debt relief plans are designed to combine all qualifying debts into one lower monthly payment so you can resolve debts faster without filing bankruptcy.

How much does Chapter 7 cost in California?

$338When you file Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you have to pay a fee of$338. But if your income is less than 150% of the federal income poverty guidelines, then you qualify to apply for a fee waiver.Feb 9, 2022

How is Chapter 7 means test calculated?

The means test is calculated by comparing the debtor's average income for the past six months (current monthly income), annualized, to the median income for households of the same size in the debtor's state of residence.

How do you pass Chapter 7 means test?

How to pass the Chapter 7 Means Test?Step 1: Outline your expenses.Step 2: Subtract the average of taxes, social security, and living expenses.Step 3: Calculate disposable income limits.

What Documents Do You Need to File For Bankruptcy?

The documents you’ll need are the same whether you are filing a Chapter 7 bankruptcy or Chapter 13 matter, with slight variations. However, for exa...

Retirement and Bank Accounts

Recent bank and retirement account statements must be provided to the bankruptcy trustee for all accounts.IdentificationWhen you go to your hearing...

What Information Do You Need to Complete The Bankruptcy Forms?

Most of the information you’ll need to fill out your bankruptcy paperwork will be in those documents, including asset value and income information....

Credit Counseling Requirement

In addition to the documents above, the law requires that you complete a credit counseling class and obtain a certificate before you can file for b...

What was the burden of bankruptcy in 2005?

One of the biggest burdens under the “new” bankruptcy law that was forced upon debtors and their attorneys in 2005 was the requirement to produce volumes and volumes of documents. In addition to the formal schedules and statement of affairs, you’ll need to get together a lot of paperwork to file bankruptcy. One nationally known attorney ...

What number do you file a debtor form with?

Individual debtors will file forms that begin with the number 100, while non-individuals will file forms beginning with the number 200. Thankfully, though, most of these documents can wait to be produced during the retainer and filing process, and need not be brought to the initial consultation. While debtors certainly are able to file ...

What to do if you find bankruptcy?

If you find bankruptcy staring right in your face, it is time to become proactive. And one of your first actions should be to contact an experienced bankruptcy lawyer in your state. A lawyer is simply indispensable in leading you through the intricate steps of bankruptcy. The first question that will arise in filing bankruptcy is which chapter ...

How long does it take to file for bankruptcy?

If you are already in possession of these documents, it will take only a few days for your lawyer to prepare and file for bankruptcy. Bankruptcy filing offers you protection, making you immune to creditors calling, threatening or suing. It will also prevent repossession, foreclosure and garnishment.

How long does Chapter 13 bankruptcy last?

However, you need to repay your creditors under a plan that may extend up to three or five years. A Chapter 13 bankruptcy protects you from wage garnishments, lawsuits and other actions by creditors. Chapter 13 checklist gives the list of documents needed and you can obtain it online.

How long does it take to complete credit counseling before filing for bankruptcy?

Credit counselling: This is a mandatory condition for those who file for bankruptcy. You need to complete the first course within six months before the debtor files for bankruptcy. You can complete the credit counselling course online itself.

How many bankruptcy courts are there in the US?

In the US, there is one bankruptcy court in each judicial district, and each state has at least one district. A bankruptcy court is totally dedicated to bankruptcy cases, much like civil and criminal courts. The judges of such courts are fully empowered to decide on eligibility issues and for granting debt discharges.

What is the role of a lawyer?

One of the most important roles of a lawyer, besides deciding which chapter to file the case under, is to tackle all the documentation involved in such cases. This involves the following:

Can you file bankruptcy if you have no property?

You can file a chapter 7 bankruptcy where there is little or no non-exempt property . A ‘means test’, instituted in the Bankruptcy Code, determines your income level. This indicates whether you are eligible for personal bankruptcy under this chapter or not.

What information do you need to file for bankruptcy?

What Information Do You Need to Complete the Bankruptcy Forms? Most of the information you'll need to fill out your bankruptcy paperwork will be in those documents, including asset value and income information. For example, you'll use the income documentation to calculate your average monthly income.

How to get a credit report for bankruptcy?

Start by finding loan statements or bills so that you can list each of your creditors in the bankruptcy. Alternatively, you can obtain a credit report that shows all your debts; however, be aware that you're required to list the creditor's billing address, and that address rarely shows up on your credit report.

What does a bankruptcy trustee do when a debtor loses financial paperwork?

When a bankruptcy debtor (filer) loses financial paperwork in a natural disaster, the bankruptcy trustee must: avoid taking action against a debtor who can't produce documents. grant reasonable requests to ease filing requirements, and. take into account a decrease in income or increase in expenses.

How long do you have to file a chapter 7 tax return?

You'll usually need to provide copies of your tax returns or tax transcripts for the last two years in a Chapter 7 case, and four years in a Chapter 13 matter. If you have unfiled returns because you weren't required to file—for instance, your only income source was nontaxable disability benefits —you'll need to explain why.

Do you have to give consent to a lawyer to text you?

You are not required to provide consent as a condition of service. Attorneys have the option, but are not required, to send text messages to you. You will receive up to 2 messages per week from Martindale-Nolo. Frequency from attorney may vary.

Do trustees require proof of bankruptcy?

Not only do some trustees require more proof than others, but the particular evidence you'll have to produce will also be determined by the facts of your case. Below are the most commonly required documents in bankruptcy.

Can you file for bankruptcy after a natural disaster?

But not only are jobs and property lost, but the paperwork required to file for bankruptcy can end up missing, too. Fortunately, provisions are made for such emergencies. When a bankruptcy debtor (filer) loses financial paperwork in a natural disaster, the bankruptcy trustee must:

What is a car loan statement?

Car loan statement showing how much you owe and your monthly payment. The value of the car. (You can get an estimate online.) Finally, you’ll need to include information regarding your retirement and other bank accounts. This is as simple as providing your most recent bank statements.

What documents are needed for a property valuation?

Documentation for property value: an online valuation, broker’s opinion, or a full appraisal if necessary. Your vehicle and any associated expenses are taken into consideration. Necessary documents include: Proof of registration. Proof of insurance. Car loan statement showing how much you owe and your monthly payment.

What do you need to know about real estate?

If you own real estate, you’ll need to provide documentation to show how much the property is worth and any related expenses. Your checklist should include: Documentation for property value: an online valuation, broker’s opinion, or a full appraisal if necessary.

What is Chapter 7 bankruptcy?

In chapter 7 bankruptcy, your assets may be sold to pay your creditors. Chapter 13 bankruptcy allows you to create a plan to pay back your debt over a number of years.

What is the next step in bankruptcy?

If you’ve determined bankruptcy is the right choice for you, your next step is to gather all the necessary documentation and find out if you’re eligible for chapter 7 or chapter 13 bankruptcy. Whether your bankruptcy involves liquidating your assets or creating a repayment plan, you’ll need to gather the same documentation.

Is filing for bankruptcy a stressful process?

Filing for bankruptcy is always a stressful situation with a lot of complicated emotions. An attorney can provide the counsel you need to determine which bankruptcy path is right for you and your financial future. If you’re considering bankruptcy, contact us today to discuss your options.

When is a 341 meeting?

Your 341 meeting, or meeting of creditors, will take place about a month after your bankruptcy case is filed. You’ll find the date, time, and location of your 341 meeting on the notice you’ll get from the court a few days after filing bankruptcy. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all 341 meetings are held either by video conference or via telephone until at least October.

What happens if you own a car that you still owe?

If you own a car that you still owe on, you’ll have to let the bank and the court know what you want to do with it one one of your bankruptcy forms.

How much does it cost to file for bankruptcy?

The federal court charges a filing fee of $338 for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. This amount is typically due when the bankruptcy petition is filed with the court. If you don’t have the funds to pay the filing fee now, you apply to pay your fee in installments, after your case has been filed.

How many pages are there in bankruptcy?

The bankruptcy forms include at least 23 separate forms, totaling roughly 70 pages . The bankruptcy forms ask you about everything you make, spend, own, and owe. You’ll also include some bankruptcy basics, like what type of bankruptcy you’re filing under and whether a bankruptcy lawyer is helping you.

How long do you have to take credit counseling before filing for bankruptcy?

Take Credit Counseling. Every person who files for bankruptcy has to take a credit counseling course in the 6 months before their bankruptcy petition is filed with the court. This is a requirement in both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases.

How many monthly payments can you make in bankruptcy?

You can ask to make up to 4 monthly payments. If paying in installments isn’t even possible, you can submit another form to apply for a fee waiver. To qualify, your total household income must be under 150% of the federal poverty line. The court will decide whether bankruptcy laws support granting you a waiver.

How long does it take to rebuild credit after bankruptcy?

Either way, once granted permanent debt relief in the form of the bankruptcy discharge, most people are able to rebuild their credit score in less than one year. Collect Your Documents.

Do you need to include a birth certificate in a will?

Further, if you designate a trustee or representative or if you designate a temporary or permanent guardian for your children in your will, you must include their name, address, and other contact information.

Do you need a list of debts to provide an attorney?

In addition to providing a detailed list of assets in a manner that allows them to be easily identified and located, an individual must provide their attorney with a list of debts. Debts that you should provide documentation of include, but are not limited to, the following:

Can you name a trustee before a guardian?

You cannot legally obligate anyone to serve as your representative to handle the estate if they don' t want to.