Filling Out Bankruptcy Forms: What You Need To Know
If you're looking to file bankruptcy (whether Chapter 7 or Chapter 13), there are a number of forms you'll need to fill out and submit before you receive a decision. This includes an official bankruptcy petition, as well as a number of schedules and other forms to provide important information about your finances. The entire process of filling out and submitting this paperwork can be a bit overwhelming, but keeping a few tips and tricks in mind will help:
Consider Working With a Bankruptcy Attorney
The best thing you can do to make the entire process of declaring bankruptcy easier is to work with a bankruptcy attorney. These legal professionals know the process in and out and can make sure that you'll fill out the right forms and that they're filled out properly.
Gather Paperwork Ahead of Time
You will likely need to track down a lot of very specific information about your income, debt, and other aspects of your finances. Therefore, it will be helpful to collect any necessary documentation ahead of time so that you can fill out your bankruptcy forms in one sitting. Some of the various types of documentation you may need include recent years' tax forms, mortgage paperwork, and current bank statements.
Fill Out Forms Online, Where Possible
Depending on the state in which you're filing and the type of bankruptcy you are pursuing, it's possible that you may be able to fill out and submit some of your paperwork online. This can save you the hassle and the added cost of printing and can also make submitting your completed forms less expensive in states that allow online processing.
Apply for a Fee Waiver, If Needed
Application and form submission fees can vary, but if you find that you cannot afford any of the filing fees needed to submit and process any of your bankruptcy paperwork, understand that there are waivers available. For example, those filing Chapter 7 can fill out Form 103B and possibly have their filing fee waived, which can save several hundred dollars. Other fees may also be waived, but you will want to speak with a lawyer to assist you.
Filling out and submitting bankruptcy paperwork can be intimidating, but it doesn't have to be as complex as you may think. With the right guidance from an experienced bankruptcy attorney, you can have your paperwork filled out and processed in no time.
Contact a company like U.S. Records for more information and assistance.
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