Making Sense Of The Maze Of Bankruptcy Forms

Bankruptcy forms can be almost impossible to understand for the layperson. It is advisable for anyone considering filing bankruptcy to consult an attorney or someone qualified to answer his or her questions. All bankruptcy petitions must file the proper bankruptcy forms, not only federal but the individual state forms as well. This will give you a general guide to help you determine what forms you may need for your bankruptcy.

The first of the bankruptcy forms you will need to complete is the Voluntary Petition of bankruptcy. Depending what type of bankruptcy you are filing, (Chapter7, 11,12,13) you will need to fill out the corresponding document. The voluntary petition is where the bankruptcy first takes shape. Filing such a petition prevents creditors from harassing and pressuring you to pay your debt. The basic information regarding your debt is contained within the Voluntary Petition. The court uses this information to start the proceedings. It is also referred to as an order of relief.

Two more important bankruptcy forms are the debtor's Statement of Intention and the debtor' Statement of Financial Affairs. Within both these documents, the debtor basically lays out his reasons for filing bankruptcy and the plan of action the debt has to get back on his feet. It shows a snapshot of your financial state at the time of bankruptcy. Both of the forms are chapter specific as well.

Another of the bankruptcy forms that you may have to file is the Statement of Reaffirmation. If you wish to have a debt not included in the ones to be discharged, you can agree to terms in which to pay off the debt. By reaffirming your desire to pay the debt, some companies will continue to offer you credit in the future.

Here are some of the Schedules that are also bankruptcy forms

• Schedule A - Real Property
• Schedule B - Personal Property
• Schedule C - Exemptions
• Schedule D - Voluntary Secured Debt
• Schedule E - Involuntary Secured Debts

For complete listings of bankruptcy forms and schedules consult www.uscourts.gov.

You can obtain bankruptcy forms from FindLegalForms, Inc.