A little preparation can make a bankruptcy consultation more useful. The goal is not to arrive with a perfect file or every document ever sent to you. Bring what you have, make a list of what is missing, and be ready to explain recent changes in your finances. The checklist below covers income, debts, assets, and court records so your attorney can understand your situation and discuss possible next steps.
Income and household costs
Gather recent pay stubs for everyone in your household who contributes to expenses. If you are self-employed, bring recent profit-and-loss statements, invoices, and business bank records. Also collect records of other income, such as unemployment benefits, Social Security, retirement payments, child support, or rental income.
Bring your latest tax returns and a simple monthly budget. Include regular expenses such as rent or mortgage payments, utilities, food, transportation, insurance, childcare, and medical costs. If your income recently changed, note when and why; that context can help your attorney assess your options.
Debts and collection activity
Make a list of every debt you can recall, even if you are unsure of the balance. Include credit cards, personal loans, medical bills, student loans, taxes, payday loans, and money owed to family or friends. Add the creditor’s name, approximate amount, account number if available, and whether the debt is current, past due, or in collections.
Bring recent statements, collection letters, lawsuit papers, wage-garnishment notices, and messages from creditors or debt collectors. Include any documents about a vehicle loan, mortgage, or other debt tied to property. If you cannot find a statement, write down the creditor’s name and explain what you know rather than leaving the debt off your list.
Property and financial accounts
List what you own and estimate its current value. This may include your home, vehicles, household items, jewelry, tools, business equipment, and property you own with someone else. Bring mortgage statements, vehicle titles or loan statements, recent account balances, and paperwork showing ownership or liens.
Include bank and credit union statements, retirement and investment account statements, and records of life insurance with cash value. Tell your attorney about property you sold, transferred, gave away, or inherited recently, along with any expected tax refund or pending claim. Do not leave out an asset because you think it is exempt or has little value; your attorney can review the details.
Court and identity records
Bring photo identification and your Social Security number or the documents needed to verify it. If you have filed bankruptcy before, bring the case number and any discharge or court papers you still have. Also gather records from divorce, child support, eviction, foreclosure, repossession, or other court matters that affect your finances.
If a hearing or deadline is approaching, bring the notice and point it out at the start of the meeting. Keep originals in a safe place and bring copies or digital files when practical. A short written timeline of major events—such as job loss, illness, separation, or a creditor lawsuit—can help you explain how your finances reached this point.
Use this list as a starting point, not a test you must pass. Bring available records, flag anything missing, and ask what else the attorney needs after reviewing your situation. A prepared first meeting can help you leave with clearer questions and practical next steps. Fresh Start Law can help you organize what to bring and discuss your options.