The 2005 amendments to the bankruptcy code placed a significant document hurdle on the debtor and the attorney prior to the filing of a bankruptcy. One of the significant changes was the means test, and the requirement of budget and credit counseling prior to the filing of a Chapter 7 or a Chapter 13 bankruptcy. In most cases our office will need the following documents prior to the filing of a bankruptcy:

1. A copy of your photo ID and Social Security card.

2. All pay advises (stubs) received by you and your spouse within the last 6 months.

3. All proof of household income including any of the following: Pay stubs, Social Security and/or disability benefits, unemployment benefits, child support, rental income, part-time jobs and any other source of income that you may have.

4. Proof that you have filed your taxes for the last 4 years (unless you were not required by law to file for any or all of these last 4 years). There is an additional document in this package that explains how to gain tax transcripts within 7- 10 business days.

5. If you own real estate or vehicles the current statements for these items.

6. Car insurance policy.

7. Any retail installment contracts.

8. The last two months of statements for all your bills.

9. The last two months of bank statements.

10. Name and last known address of Child Support/Alimony Receiver

This list is by no means a comprehensive list for all clients. In some cases we may need more or less documents and the above documents may or may not apply to everyone's case. On the above list the least important documents are your bills, because we pull a credit report for all of our clients whether they file a Chapter 7 or a Chapter 13.

I have represented consumers just like you for a number of years. I am an experienced Chicago Bankruptcy Lawyer who helps clients lose their debt and keep their dignity! Please feel free to call me for a free consultation at 312-489-8182.