what documents do you need to have to file bankruptcy chapter 7?

how to file chapter 7 bankruptcy
juliett858 asked:


Are W-2s and tax returns required to be presented at any point to file bankruptcy chapter 7 in California?

Please speak from your experience only. Thank you.

3 Responses to “what documents do you need to have to file bankruptcy chapter 7?”

  1. SugarBear says:

    Yes. Last 3 years tax returns with W-2s and 12 months pay stubs. Bankruptcy is filed in federal court.

  2. S P says:

    I filed last year, had to supply last 4 years of taxes, last 6 months of paystubs, list of all the debts and you also have to take a mandatory credit counseling course. Contact a local bk attorney and get in to see them free to see if you even qualify for the 7….The above paperwork is what they will need to see unless you have assets, they will need to see that paperwork as well. I had to pay to have a credit report pulled from all three credit bureaus as well. Good Luck!

  3. SoCal Attorney says:

    I am a bankruptcy attorney in San Diego. Some of the documentation requirements vary slightly depends on which district you file your bankruptcy case (there are 4 in California). However, you will definitely be required to provide a copy of your most recently filed tax return to the trustee assigned to your case. You will also need your stubs or other income documentation for the 60-day period leading up to the filing date of your bankruptcy. I’ve been involved in many bankruptcy cases and I’ve never had to provide one of my client’s W-2 forms.

    Filing bankruptcy is hard to do without an attorney. If you don’t follow all of the requirements, your case could be dismissed without a discharge or you may lose property that an experienced bankruptcy attorney might help you keep. I suggest contacting a member of the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys for a consultation.