I often speak with debtors over the phone who are ready to file for bankruptcy and they are always wondering what the best steps they should do to prepare for the bankruptcy filing. My answer every time is to get your paperwork organized. Here are a couple of things you should consider:
Do I need to bring a list of all my creditors to the bankruptcy consultation?
No, typically the majority of your debts will be found by running your credit, however debts such as medical debts, personal loans, and payday loans will not show up on credit reports. If you have any medical debts, personal loans, or payday loans you should bring copies of them to your consultation.
Documents you need to bring to your initial consultation:
Always provide copies of your last three years of tax returns. If you don’t have a copy or can’t find them, then you need to go to your local IRS office and ask for tax transcripts (they are free).
Provide copies of your last six bank statements for ANY bank account that has your name on it.
Provide copies of your last six months of any investment account that has your name on it.
Provide copies of the last six months of paystubs (paystubs determine which bankruptcy you qualify for) and the last six months of a spouses paystubs (even if the spouse is not filing).
Provide a detailed description of any vehicle driven, any boat, or any mode of transportation owned by or titled to the debtor. The description should include the make, model, trim package, mileage and condition.
Provide copies of any litigation/lawsuit in which you are party to.
Providing documentation, to your bankruptcy attorney, is probably the best step that any debtor can take in order to ensure a successful bankruptcy filing. If you are thinking of filing for bankruptcy and would like to schedule a consultation with a local bankruptcy lawyer, then please contact Ofer Shmucher at Shmucher Law, PL by calling 305.741.5553 or 954.309.5559. We offer free consultations in any of our office locations including Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Plantation and Sunrise Florida.