Before You File Bankruptcy, Gather Up These Documents
Filing for bankruptcy is not an easy process, but the process can run quite a bit smoother if you hire an experienced bankruptcy attorney and also get prepared prior to filing and track down all of the necessary documents. Here are examples of some of the documents you will need.
Six Months of Income Proof – If you are currently employed or you have been employed, you will need to supply payroll stubs. For those who are unemployed, you need to find all of the documents pertaining to any compensation you have received during unemployment. In addition, you will need to supply proof of any alimony or child support, as well as trust account checks, social security checks or any other forms of income.
Tax Return Forms: It is good to track down and provide tax returns for the last four years prior to filing for bankruptcy protection. This not only will provide information about your assets, but also will help give a general picture of your overall financial situation.
Bills & Credit Documents: It is very important to collect documents from all the creditors to whom you owe money. This means you need to find monthly billing statements, as well as any court documents if you have been sued or owe outstanding payments from the judgment in a lawsuit. Even if you owe a friend or relative and don’t have a document, at least write down this amount. Credit card statements are also very important, as the last charges you made prior to filing can be relevant in your bankruptcy case.
Bank Statements: This will show how much money you have, and what you have done with it in the recent past. Also, be prepared to show proof of any kind of investment documentation.
Certificate Of Completion of Credit Counseling Requirement: Everyone who files for bankruptcy must have completed a course on credit counseling. Your attorney can help arrange this course for you, and at the end of it, you will receive documentation that it was completed successfully. This will be important to keep and show the court once you file your petition.
Identification: Your driver’s license will suffice. You will also need to provide your address and legal name.
Ownership Documents: This includes any titles for your home, a car or items such as a boat or RV.
Although this is the majority of information needed to file for bankruptcy, what is done with this information can vary greatly based on the way it is represented to the bankruptcy court. It is important to have an experienced bankruptcy attorney who can help you keep as much of your assets as possible and come out of bankruptcy in the best possible position.
Emely Peight enjoys writing about bankruptcy issues. For more information or to find a Phoenix bankruptcy lawyer, or if you require a Tucson bankruptcy lawyer, please visit these bankruptcy websites now.
