What Paperwork Do I Need To File Bankruptcy?

If you are contemplating filing bankruptcy, you may be worried about the paperwork you will have to complete. In reality, however, your bankruptcy attorney handles most of the paperwork. You will supply supporting documentation for the claims your attorney makes on your behalf to the bankruptcy court. What paperwork will your attorney ask for? Here are some guidelines of things you may be asked to produce so that you can begin gathering these important documents.

• Paycheck stubs. One of the most important pieces of information you can supply is your paycheck stub. Your attorney may ask for more than one paycheck stub to show your pattern of earnings. There is a great deal of information in your paycheck stub than can provide support for your bankruptcy filing.
• Tax returns. You will probably be asked to produce at least one year of tax returns and perhaps as many as three, depending on the type of bankruptcy you file and the amount of your assets. If you have not filed your taxes, tell your attorney so that this issue can be addressed.
• If you own real property, your attorney may ask to see your deed. This is often the case when property is paid off; however, if you are still making mortgage payments, your attorney may ask for your mortgage statement.
• Gather all of your bills for at least one month; two is preferable. These will support your statements about utility costs, credit card payments and other amounts you are paying each month. It is also a convenient way to get all of your account numbers in one location.
• If you do not keep your receipts from the supermarket or other stores, begin to do so now. It will be helpful to show how much you spend each month on variable expenses such as groceries.
• Bank statements. If you have a checking or savings account, be sure to bring your bank statements to your attorney. These statements will have your account numbers and other important information on them, making it simpler to discuss your assets. Be sure to include statements from retirement accounts or IRAs as well.

If you are struggling to pay your bills, bankruptcy may be a solution for you. The attorneys at the Oswalt Law Group in Phoenix are ready to work with you to help you take advantage of the protections offered by bankruptcy law. Contact us today to discuss your financial issues and find answers.