Can I File for Bankruptcy from Home?
Yes! It’s now possible to file your bankruptcy case without ever leaving the comfort and safety of your home.
How Does This Work?
It’s much like the in-person filing process, but you and your bankruptcy attorney will handle things remotely.
The process begins with a phone or a video consultation with your attorney. This is a meeting that lasts approximately 30 to 60 minutes and it’s an opportunity to discuss your financial situation. During the meeting, your attorney will gather all necessary information about your case and then explain your options. Your attorney can then tell you if you are eligible and if you pass the means test to file a Chapter 7.
Learn more about the difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 here.
To compare Chapter 7 for your situation use the calculator below for a personalized estimate of qualification and cost.
Next, you’ll learn how your attorney can assist you with the process. Not only will you receive information about filing for bankruptcy from home, but you’ll also learn how you’ll begin rebuilding your credit once you’ve filed.
Once you understand your options, you’re given easy web links to complete your bankruptcy paperwork and credit counseling class. Everyone filing for bankruptcy must participate in two education programs: one before filing and one after they’ve filed. You can learn more about your bankruptcy education requirements here.
Who Helps Me File for Bankruptcy from Home?
Once you’ve committed to improving your financial situation by filing for bankruptcy, you’ll be matched to a legal assistant. This person walks you through the entire process from beginning to end. You’ll receive your filing from home instruction via telephone.
Your legal assistant helps you prepare the documents and information needed to file with the court. Once completed, the documents will be sent to you via email to sign electronically and return to your lawyer. All of this is complete virtually, so you never need to leave your home.
The court assigns you an appearance date about 30 days after you’ve filed your bankruptcy forms. This “appearance” is also done by phone when you are filing for bankruptcy remotely. You and your attorney will participate in a conference call with the court that covers:
Review of the details of your case
Any questions from the trustee
Any issues raised by creditors
Once the call is complete your case moves onto the next step.
If you are filing for Chapter 7, this means your discharge will come in about two months after your phone court appearance. For those filing Chapter 13, you’ll begin your repayment plan. The from-home bankruptcy process really is as simple as it sounds.
Best of all, you’ll be able to begin rebuilding your credit immediately, also from the comfort of your home. Our program helps you restore your credit and get it back to a score of 720 within 12 to 24 months.
Learn more about our 720 credit restoration process here.
It has never been easier to get a fresh financial start. Contact us today to learn more about filing for bankruptcy from home.
What Do I Need to File for Bankruptcy from Home?
Filing from home is one of the simplest things you’ll ever do. It’s fast and easy and the best way to take control of your finances.
All you need to file from home is a computer, an internet connection, and a telephone. You’ll want to make sure your connection is secure since you’ll be sharing personal and financial details. If you have any questions or need help with filing, we’re here for you.
FAQ: Help with Filing Bankruptcy from Home
Can I file from home if I’m not “technologically savvy?”
Yes! We’ll help you through each step. Even if you aren’t used to working with computers or doing things digitally, we can help you and ensure that all goes smoothly.
Does filing from home take longer?
No. If anything, it’s more efficient and some steps will take less time. The court tends to move along at the same pace regardless of whether you file in-person or remotely, but since we’ll be “meeting” via phone, it’s more convenient and easier to get things moving along as quickly as possible.
Can I only file from home during an emergency situation or the current COVID-19 pandemic?
No. Although now is one of the best times to file for bankruptcy remotely because of the risk we face and the need to social distance, you’ll be able to file this way once the pandemic has passed. It’s one of the easiest and most convenient options you have. It also makes bankruptcy accessible to a larger group of people. This means we’re able to assist more people with getting their financial situation back on track.
Is it safe to file from home?
Yes, but we’ll discuss what you need to know before you officially begin the process. We’ll make sure the transmission of your sensitive financial information is secure and that you don’t create a bigger problem for yourself by exposing yourself to cyber risks.
If I’m filing from home, while do I need a bankruptcy attorney?
The process of filing from home is convenient and removes some of the burdens of filing for bankruptcy. But it doesn’t change the process entirely. It just means you’re handling meetings and exchange of paperwork remotely. You’ll still need to submit correct and complete information. You have all of the same obligations and responsibilities you’d have if you were filing for bankruptcy in person. An attorney helps you through the process, ensures everything you submit to the court is correct and complete, and is there to answer your questions every step of the way.
If you’d like to know more about filing for bankruptcy from home or you are ready to get started, give us a call!