Your Ultimate Bankruptcy Filing Checklist (2025 Edition)

Why This Checklist Matters

Bankruptcy isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your income, assets, and debt types all play a role in whether Chapter 7, Chapter 13, or an alternative makes sense. This checklist breaks it all down - so you can act with clarity, not confusion.

Better yet? The AI Bankruptcy Advisor gives you tailored insights in minutes based on your exact situation, so you never have to guess.

Before diving in, it’s important to understand the full process and avoid costly pitfalls. Be sure to review the top mistakes people make when filing bankruptcy without a lawyer so you don’t sabotage your chances before you even file.

Pre-Filing Items: Know Before You File

✅ Review Your Debts in Detail
List every credit card, loan, medical bill, and collector balance. Knowing which debts can be discharged in Chapter 7 is key.

✅ Check if You Qualify for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
Use the means test or a tool like AI Bankruptcy Advisor to see if you meet the income requirements.

✅ Understand Protected Assets
Can you keep your car? Your home? Learn what assets are exempt in your state before you file.

✅ Compare Bankruptcy Options
Chapter 7 vs Chapter 13 - or debt settlement? Each has trade-offs. The right fit depends on your income, debt type, and goals.

✅ Estimate Total Bankruptcy Costs
Know the filing fees, education courses, and any legal help costs, or if you can file for bankruptcy without a lawyer.

✅ Pull Your Credit Report
Get a complete picture of your liabilities. Free at AnnualCreditReport.com.

During the Filing Process

✅ Complete Required Credit Counseling
You must take a court-approved session before filing. Required for both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13.

✅ Fill Out the Bankruptcy Forms Accurately
Use a tool that simplifies the paperwork - one missed detail can delay or deny your case.

✅ Submit Your Petition to the Right Court
Where you live determines which bankruptcy court handles your case.

✅ Prepare for the 341 Meeting
You’ll answer questions under oath. Be ready to explain your income, spending, and asset status.

✅ Follow Court Timelines Closely
Miss a deadline and your case could be dismissed. Set reminders.

Post-Filing Follow-Ups

✅ Complete Your Debtor Education Course
This second class is required before discharge. Please don’t skip it.

✅ Monitor Your Credit Score Recovery Timeline
Expect a dip - but also a clean slate. Tools like the AI Bankruptcy Advisor help you track and rebuild more efficiently.

✅ Confirm Discharge of Debts
Make sure all dischargeable debts were wiped. If something is missing, act quickly.

✅ Set Up a New Budget + Emergency Fund
Start fresh - build habits to stay debt-free and protected.

✅ Consider a Secured Credit Card
A Smart Way to Rebuild Credit After Bankruptcy.

For a more complete look at the entire process—including eligibility, forms, and legal alternatives—check out The Complete Guide to Bankruptcy in 2025.

Try the tool now - clarity in 10 minutes or less.

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