Important Chapter 7 Reminders, Part 1

Chapter 7 bankruptcy can be a complicated process, and here are some important considerations for some of the lesser-known aspects of this type of bankruptcy:     – First Meeting of Creditors – Both you and your spouse (if applicable) will need to attend this meeting, and you’ll need both picture identification and proof of your Social Security number. It is usually scheduled for one to two months from the date you file your petition.     – Creditors and collections – It generally takes one to two months for creditors to receive notices from the court to cease collection efforts against you. If you continue receiving bills from creditors after 30 days have passed since filing your petition, inform your attorney to ensure that collection efforts are put on hold.     – Change of job, residence, or phone number – Be sure to notify your attorney immediately regarding these changes.     – Utilities – You will still need to pay your monthly utility bills, though these companies will cease billing you for prior due amounts which are listed in your petition.     – Court notices – During bankruptcy, you may receive court notices which provide you a date and time for a particular hearing, such as the “Hearing for Motion for Relief from Automatic Stay,” but you may not need to attend these hearings. Your attorney will notify you regarding hearings for which your attendance is mandatory, such as the First Meeting of Creditors.