Petition Preparer Disclosure

Last updated: [insert date]

A bankruptcy petition preparer is a person who is paid to type the forms for someone who is filing bankruptcy without an attorney.
A petition preparer is not an attorney and cannot provide legal advice.

Working with a petition preparer does not create an attorney–client relationship.

A petition preparer may:

•type information you provide into the official forms

•organize your information for accuracy and completeness

•provide printed or electronic copies of documents prepared from your information

•charge a reasonable fee as allowed by federal law

•sign the prepared documents as required by 11 U.S.C. §110

•provide the required “Notice to Debtor” explaining the role of a preparer

A petition preparer may not:

•give legal advice

•explain how laws apply to your situation

•choose exemptions for you

•tell you what to claim or list

•represent you in court

•communicate with the trustee on your behalf

•predict case outcomes

•tell you whether you should file bankruptcy

Only a licensed attorney can provide legal opinions or legal strategy.

Under 11 U.S.C. §110, a petition preparer must:

•include their name, address, and identification on all prepared documents

•provide a signed declaration stating they are not an attorney

•provide a written disclosure of the services they will perform

•not collect or hold court filing fees

•provide itemized receipts for payments

•not use the word “legal” or imply legal expertise

These protections exist to ensure that individuals representing themselves understand the limits of a preparer’s role.

Petition preparer fees are regulated under federal law and may be reviewed by the bankruptcy court.
Fees cover typing services only, not legal advice.

Any additional services must be clearly disclosed in advance.

As someone representing yourself, you are responsible for:

•reviewing your documents for accuracy

•providing complete information

•signing the documents

•filing your paperwork with the appropriate court

•attending any required meetings or hearings

A petition preparer cannot perform these tasks for you.

Petition preparers cannot answer questions such as:

•“Should I file?”

•“What will happen to my debts?”

•“What exemptions should I claim?”

•“Will I lose my property?”

For these questions, you must speak with a licensed attorney.

For general organizational or service questions (not legal questions):

[Insert your contact method here]