bankruptcy forms

There is a lot of confusion within the general population regarding bankruptcy. How to file where to get the forms, is there a source for free bankruptcy form and free bankruptcy information etc.

This confusion leads to most lay people believing that they need the help of an attorney to file for bankruptcy.

As with all legal and court filings it is possible for a member of the public to file without the services of a legal professional. This type of filing without legal representation is called a Pro Se filling.

There are countless sources providing bankruptcy forms both online and in retail outlets. Prices range from $10 to $199 depending on the service offered.

Some providers are marketing a bankruptcy kit which offers support in the form of a booklet on how to file out the forms and how to file.

There is however a totally free source for bankruptcy forms online. Ironically it is the United States Bankruptcy Court site which can be found at Free Bankruptcy Forms.

It is interesting that a Google Search for Bankruptcy Forms has eleven paid advertisements trying to sell bankruptcy forms. The wording of the advertisements would lead one to believe that it is a mistake to file without the information provided in their kit.

However the United States Bankruptcy court again provides a how to file manual which is free.

One of the most important things that must be done before filing for bankruptcy, either chapter 7 or chapter 13 is to ensure that you have completed a pre filing consumer credit counselling course.

This is an over the telephone course that takes about 15 minutes and costs approximately $50. When you go to your local Bankruptcy Court to file for bankruptcy you will need the certificate of completion for your pre filing course.

To make an initial filing you will need:

• The required fee ($299 for chapter 7 and $274 for chapter 13)
• Certificate of credit counselling
• Bankruptcy form B1 completed.
• Statement of social security number form B21.

The forms can be picked up when you go to the Bankruptcy court to file if you cannot download from the Internet. Be sure to make a copy.

You will be required to submit a matrix of creditor's to the Bankruptcy Court within a short period of your initial filing. You will be given this deadline by the clerk when you file. It is important that the Matrix arrives at the court on or before the deadline for it being lodged.

A Matrix is a simple typed or neatly handwritten list of your creditors including names and addresses. See a handbook here: Matrix handbook.

Filing without an attorney

Free Bankruptcy Forms

Bankruptcy Filing Fees

List of Credit Counselling Agencies

If you are paying the filing fee in cash make sure to bring the exact amount as the Bankruptcy Court will not make change.

Bring some small change with you for the photo copier if you think you will need any copies.