1. Review the financial picture

Your lawyer needs enough information to identify the right chapter, potential property issues, deadlines, and anything that needs special planning before a case is filed.

2. Gather documents and complete required counseling

Typical preparation includes income records, tax returns, bank statements, creditor information, property values, loan documents, and the pre-filing credit counseling requirement.

3. Prepare and review the bankruptcy papers

The petition, schedules, statements, means-test forms when applicable, and other documents are prepared from your financial information. You should review them carefully because they are signed under penalty of perjury.

4. File the case

Filing generally creates the automatic stay, which stops many collection actions. The effect can be different in repeat filings or unusual circumstances.

5. Work with the trustee and attend the 341 meeting

The trustee reviews the case and asks questions at the meeting of creditors. Additional documents may be required before or after the meeting.

6. Move toward discharge or complete the Chapter 13 plan

In a straightforward Chapter 7, the discharge often arrives a few months after filing. Chapter 13 continues through the court-approved repayment plan, typically three to five years.

General information only; not legal advice. Bankruptcy outcomes depend on the facts, timing, chapter, creditor documents, and applicable law. Last reviewed August 2026.