Bankruptcy Forms Guide

Where to Get the Forms

All official bankruptcy forms are available free at uscourts.gov/forms/bankruptcy-forms. They are fillable PDF forms that you can complete on your computer and print.

Form 101 -- Voluntary Petition

This is your main petition form. It includes your name, address, Social Security number, which chapter you are filing under, and whether you have filed bankruptcy before. Key things to know:

• Use your full legal name and all names you have used in the past 8 years
• If filing jointly with a spouse, both names go on the petition
• You must indicate whether you have completed credit counseling

Schedules A/B -- Your Property

This is where you list EVERYTHING you own or have an interest in. Real estate, vehicles, bank accounts, furniture, clothing, retirement accounts, tax refunds owed to you, lawsuits you are a party to -- everything. The number one rule: when in doubt, list it.

Schedule C -- Exempt Property

After listing everything in A/B, Schedule C is where you claim exemptions to protect your property. Which exemptions you can use depends on your state. Some states allow you to choose between state and federal exemptions; others require state exemptions only.

Schedules D, E/F -- Your Creditors

Schedule D lists secured creditors (mortgages, car loans, liens). Schedule E/F lists priority creditors (taxes, child support) and general unsecured creditors (credit cards, medical bills). Include the creditor name, address, account number, and amount owed.

Schedules I and J -- Income and Expenses

Schedule I lists your current monthly income from all sources. Schedule J lists your current monthly expenses. The difference between I and J is your disposable income -- an important number for the means test and for determining whether Chapter 7 is appropriate.

Form 107 -- Statement of Financial Affairs

This is the most detailed and time-consuming form. It asks about income for the past 2 years, payments to creditors, lawsuits, property transfers, gifts, losses, and much more. Answer every question completely and honestly.

Form 122A -- Means Test

The means test determines whether you qualify for Chapter 7. Form 122A-1 is the initial calculation. If your income is below the state median, you pass. If above, Form 122A-2 calculates allowed expenses to determine disposable income.