Frequently Asked Questions

No. Some people choose to work with an attorney, while others file on their own or use a petition preparer. Each option has different responsibilities, limitations, and levels of support.

If you want an overview of filing options, you can read more in the guides or blog.

Yes. Many individuals file without an attorney. However, filing on your own does not reduce the complexity of the forms or the accuracy required. You are responsible for the information submitted to the court.

More detailed information can be found in the educational materials on this site.

Eligibility depends on income, household size, and financial circumstances. This site provides general information only; qualification questions should be directed to an attorney.

Automatic stay rules are part of the bankruptcy process, but this site cannot provide advice about how the law applies to specific situations.

The bankruptcy process includes legal protections that may affect wage garnishment, but this site cannot explain how those rules apply to individual situations. An attorney can provide specific guidance.

It depends on how debts are structured and whether both spouses are filing. Individual circumstances vary.

Some individuals file while unemployed, but income requirements and qualification details vary. This page offers general information only.

Bankruptcy filings are public records, but the level of visibility varies. 

A typical case lasts about 90–120 days from filing to discharge. Timelines vary based on district procedures and administrative review.

Yes. Individuals are legally allowed to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy without hiring an attorney. This is called filing pro se. If you choose to file on your own, you are fully responsible for submitting all required forms, providing accurate financial details, completing the credit counseling and debtor education courses, paying the filing fee (or applying for a waiver), and attending the 341 Meeting of Creditors.

Many people find the process manageable, but others prefer assistance with preparing the forms. A bankruptcy petition preparer can help with the document preparation only and cannot give legal advice or represent you in court.

The trustee verifies your identity and confirms information on the forms. Meetings are usually brief. This is a general description and not legal guidance.

Most individuals only attend the 341 meeting. Court appearances are uncommon but depend on the specifics of the case.

Submission methods depend on district rules. Some courts accept electronic filings from attorneys, but self-represented filers may have different requirements. Always check your local court’s instructions.

Generally, the trustee may review additional documents if needed. After that, most individuals wait for their discharge. This is a broad description, not advice.

Yes, cases can be dismissed for various reasons, such as missing documents or deadlines. This FAQ cannot provide specific guidance on individual risks.

Many filers keep most or all property due to exemptions, but whether an item is protected is a legal question. This page offers general information only.

Common categories include identification, income records, bank statements, tax returns, and debt statements. Requirements vary by district.

No. The guides help you organize your information but do not include or replace the official forms. Petition preparers use the correct forms during preparation.

No. Petition preparers use the appropriate forms and type the information you provide.

No. Selecting exemptions is a legal decision. Only an attorney can provide guidance on exemption choices.

Photocopies or digital copies are often sufficient for organizational purposes, but specific requirements vary by court or trustee. Requirements are district-specific.

Bank statements help confirm financial activity during the preparation process. This site provides organizational guidance only.

Official forms require complete and accurate information. This FAQ cannot provide legal interpretation about what must be included.

Many individuals order replacement statements or request copies from institutions. This FAQ cannot advise on legal sufficiency or deadlines.

A petition preparer organizes your information and types it into the required forms based on the details you provide.

They do not provide legal advice, select exemptions, predict outcomes, communicate with the trustee, or represent you in court.

No. Petition preparers cannot offer legal advice or representation.

No. Outcomes depend on individual circumstances and court requirements.

A petition preparer follows federal requirements specific to bankruptcy documents, whereas a general typing service may not be familiar with standard form layouts.

No. Filing is always the responsibility of the individual. Petition preparers do not submit documents to the court.

No. Petition preparers cannot advise on legal procedures, trustee behavior, or case strategy.

No. They are optional tools designed to help you stay organized and avoid common preparation errors.

No. They are educational and organizational tools.

No. This site cannot respond to legal questions or provide individualized advice.

The official forms are available from the U.S. Courts website. Petition preparers use these forms during the preparation process.

No. This website does not store or transmit personal information.

Yes. Digital guides are available immediately after purchase.

No. They help individuals stay organized but do not replace professional legal guidance.

Digital products are typically non-refundable, but policies are displayed clearly on the purchase page.

Tools assist with organization only. Court outcomes and document acceptance vary by district.

This website provides educational resources about Chapter 7 bankruptcy, including guides, articles, checklists, and tools to help you understand the process. For individuals who want help preparing their paperwork, the site also offers non-attorney bankruptcy petition preparation services, which include organizing your information and completing the required forms based on the details you provide. This site does not provide legal advice, legal opinions, or court representation.