How to File for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy | 
| Authors: Stephen Elias, Albin Renauer, Robin Leonard
Publisher: NOLO
List Price: $29.99
Buy New: $18.80
You Save: $11.19 (37%)
New (26) Used (4) from $18.80
Rating:  53 reviews
Sales Rank: 10005
Media: Paperback
Edition: 15
Pages: 528
Number Of Items: 1
Shipping Weight (lbs): 2.7
Dimensions (in): 11 x 8.4 x 1.3
ISBN: 141330897X
Dewey Decimal Number: 346.73078
EAN: 9781413308976
ASIN: 141330897X
Publication Date: October 15, 2008
Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Shipping: International shipping available
Condition: Brand New, Perfect Condition, Please allow 4-14 business days for delivery. 100% Money Back Guarantee, Over 1,000,000 customers served.
| |
| Also Available In:
|
| Similar Items:
|
| Editorial Reviews:
Amazon.com Review
In these times of massive credit card debt and stagnating incomes, filing for bankruptcy has become the only relief for thousands of people. The information in How to File for Bankruptcy is so complete that a person can file virtually on his own, without needing to hire a lawyer. By no means does the book encourage filing for bankruptcy, but it will help anyone in serious financial trouble determine if bankruptcy might be a sensible course to take, and examines what kind is appropriate for different individuals. All of the necessary forms are included, complete with explicit directions. Like all Nolo Press titles, this is a straightforward, no-nonsense book of useful advice and specific guidance, written in clear, easy-to-understand language.
Product Description
Find debt relief by filing bankruptcy with this all-in-one-book!
If you have more debt than you can possibly pay off, the bankruptcy system is there to help -- and with How to File for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, you'll find the clear and user-friendly information, advice and forms you need to get through the entire process.
First, the book will help you determine whether you qualify for Chapter 7 --and whether it is the best way to deal with your debts. Then you'll find out how to:
stop wage garnishments and attachments
fill out and file all the forms
cancel as much debt as possible
deal with secured debts
keep the maximum amount of property
keep your home, if possible
rebuild credit after bankruptcy
The 15th edition is completely updated and revised to reflect the latest laws and legal forms, plus the line-by-line instructions you need to fill them out. Get new information on foreclosure and exemption requirements, and read the latest court decisions. And, easy-to-use charts make looking up your state's laws a snap.
Please note: This book does not cover business bankruptcies, farm reorganizations or individual repayment plans (Chapter 13). For Chapter 13 bankruptcy, see Nolo's Chapter 13 Bankruptcy: Repay Your Debts.
List of Forms
Form 1-Voluntary Petition
Exhibit C to Voluntary Petition
Schedule A-Real Property
Schedule B-Personal Property
Schedule C-Property Claimed as Exempt
Schedule D-Creditors Holding Secured Claims
Schedule E-Creditors Holding Unsecured Priority Claims
Schedule F-Creditors Holding Unsecured Nonpriority Claims
Schedule G-Executory Contracts and Unexpired Leases
Schedule H-Codebtors
Schedule I-Current Income of Individual Debtors(s)
Schedule J-Current Expenditures of Individual Debtor(s)
Declaration Concerning Debtor's Schedules
Summary of Schedules and Statistical Summary of Certain Liabilities
Form 3A-Application to Pay Filing Fee in Installments
Form 3B-Application for Waiver of the Chapter 7 Filing Fee
Form 7-Statement of Financial Affairs
Form 8-Chapter 7 Individual Debtor's Statement of Intention
Form 16A-Caption
Form B20A-Notice of Motion or Objection
Form B21-Statement of Social Security Number
Form B22A-Statement of Current Monthly Income and Means
Test Calculation
Form B23-Debtor's Certification of Completion of Instructional Course Concerning Personal Financial Management
Form B201-Notice to Individual Consumer Debtor Under 342(b) of the Bankruptcy Code
Form B240-Reaffirmation Agreement
Mailing Matrix
Amendment Cover Sheet
Notice of Change of Address
Supplemental Schedule for Property Acquired After Bankruptcy Discharge
Proof of Service by Mail
Pleading Paper
Exhibit D to Voluntary Petition
Form 240B: Order on Reaffirmation Agreement
|
| Customer Reviews: Read 48 more reviews...
 Excellent and accurate resource September 21, 1999
168 out of 177 found this review helpful
This book has been my light at the end of the tunnel. It took me approximately 4 wks. to research the book and understand it so I didn't make any mistakes in filing inaccurate information but once I did the paperwork (all through the mail) it only took 1 wk. before the creditors meeting was set for 3 wks. later and the entire chapter 7 should be done within about 3 months. I was the only one present at my meeting without an attorney but my meeting as well as the 15 people before me only took 5 minutes each in front of the trustee. None of the creditors in any of the cases showed up except Sears in other cases but they just noted the information for their records. This is possible to do by yourself and for approximately $175.00 administrative and filing fees. No other costs have been incurred and I am on my way to a new start. Thank you so much!
Another score for NOLO Press! October 11, 2002
Beth Hodges (Texas)
26 out of 33 found this review helpful
Hi, me again. I filed chapter 13 and converted on over to 7. THis was a very good book as well. Had the conversion form in it. VEry handy. THis one had all the legal forms I could think of to use, great instructions. Actual examples on how to fill them out. questionnaires, and check list. I had all my bases covered here. It is very informative on the automatic stay. Where creditors, can not mess with you anymore. One called so much, they woke up the baby.:( Made me mad. )With these nolo books, I also learned how to file a complaint against these creditors. It really help with eliminating some of the old debts. We really needed to seek this relief. I was able to restart, my economic life again with this relief. It happens to the best of us. Don't be embrassed. THe excemptions were very informational and iron clad true. THey were listed in the back of the book. I used these for my state. I totally trusted what was in the NOLO books. They did me proud. THerefore I was able to keep what I had listed under what exemptions nolo had listed on the list under federal and state exemptions. I guess I was able to totally depend on this book start to finish. I didnot have to go anywhere else, or seek any other forms. It was like one stop shopping. I must say, a judge commented on my organizational skills and asked where I learned to do this, and my work was as good as what has come out of some attorneys office. I said, I thank nolo for this. I happened to have the book with me as a referece. I can depend on NOLO books for what ever comes up, civil. The book gave me the self esteem I needed to actually pull this representing my self off. It was not that bad. Actually it was a challenge. I am now on the high road to financial recovery. Thanks to NOLO press. By the way, doing this on your own is alot cheaper than hiring a attorney. It save me bunches of money. Difference between this one and others, don't even bother with other books. I think the difference with this one, is nolos reputation. I can count on when I buy their books it gets me thru what ever jam, I have encounterd. I have represented myself on several occasions by using nolo books, for self help. Even if the book is a later edition, still iron clad, as far as forms go. I used a 4th editions forms. I had purchased this one a while back before I purchased this one. I tell you I was the envy of my buddy pals. ONe buddy paid tons of money to a local high power attorny, and I still think I came out better. Just really think it thru, on represnting your self. You can do it with this book. THis one also fits anywhere, even one time I threw it in the glove box, cause I had like errands to run, once, it was shoved into the center consol of my truck, even had green beans, from the baby spilled on this one a time or two. Still was in great shape. What is it about NOLO books that take a licking and come out looking great. MUst be the way they are made. Tuff durable. GOtta run, I am being paged by the baby.:) Later, Betty Hogges PS. YOu don't have to be a high power attorney to do this, or someone with a high education. this was a very user friendly book, one for all and all for one book. Very equal opportunity read. Easy to understand. I didnot feel like a idiot using this book. I also didnot have to ask outside questions.
 Very helpful resource April 25, 2007
Joomi Lee (World citizen)
24 out of 24 found this review helpful
This review refers to the 13th edition of the book, which does cover the new bankruptcy law revision of 2006. Please read the editorial and customer reviews as to why this book was so helpful.
The author does a good job explaining how to file your own bankruptcy "pro se" (which means you are your own attorney and responsible for finding the answers to your own legal questions.)
At the time the 13th edition was printed, the author didn't know if any of the state bankruptcy courts would grant an indigent filer relief from the bankruptcy filing fee. This is because there was a difference between the federal agency that created the exemption document and the agency that says such requests can be granted. Apparently, this difference of opinion has since been resolved. In my state, Washington, the judge did grant me exemption from filing the court fee, a savings of over [...].
My bankruptcy was a pretty straightforward chapter 7, even though I had taken out a business license as a sole proprietor. As I had no clients and no business income, I could go ahead and file as an individual.
The author commends the reader for having taken charge of their financial crisis and having made the difficult decision to file for bankruptcy. It would also have been helpful if he'd included a few helpful tips on emotional and mental preparation. For example, people under stress tend to forget common sense advice like: get enough sleep, exercise, and healthy food. Organize all your financial records in a quiet and neat environment, etc. Write down what you've done and what you need to accomplish. And so forth.
In my case, because I could have been better organized, I ended up paying two times an amendment fee because I forgot to include all creditors on my mailing matrix and other related forms.
(As a side note, many credit card companies own their own credit collections agencies with completely different names. To be on the safe side, list both the original creditor and the "collection agency" that they supposedly "sold" the debt to in your bankruptcy forms. However, when totaling the debt, do not count the same amount twice. On your mailing matrix, include both the original creditor and any collection agencies they have sold their debt to. This will cover your rear end. If you list only the collection agency and not the original creditor, you might be responsible for paying off the debt because the original creditor wasn't listed in your bankruptcy forms.)
Student loans are usually not discharged but you should go ahead and list them anyway so the judge knows your total debt load.
Most filers choose to hire an attorney. I was one of three people who chose to go "pro se" out of over 30 filers. That really surprised me. My meeting with the trustee lasted less than five minutes.
Just because someone goes with an attorney doesn't mean that attorney will be complete and thorough. I witnessed two attorneys who did not properly prepare their clients for potential questions the trustee asked, all of which are described in this book in a special listing. In my case, the trustee did not ask all the questions listed in the book but I was sure glad the author listed them so I could be prepared in case he did choose to ask them. Did those people get their money's worth? I don't know.
The creditor's meeting is when you can tell the trustee if there have been any changes since you first filed for bankruptcy. Since this meeting is recorded now is the time to tell them. In my case, I reported assets I had failed to list (hobby supplies, etc.), assets that had been stolen from my home this month, and a car I no longer owned as it had been auctioned off by a towing company.
The two biggest reasons people file for bankruptcy are medically related and poor credit card usage. Both those reasons fit my profile. (Actually, I was very good at using a credit card as I remember charging them to the limit.) I cut up all my credit cards and now use only my debit card, cash, or checks. I now have a financial budget and feel like a load has been lifted off my shoulders.
The only reason I have for repairing my credit rating is if I choose to buy a house. At this time I don't have any plans for doing so. However, for those who do want to improve their credit score, your best bet is to see if your local credit union or bank will give you a secured credit card, which will only allow you to "charge" amounts that you have placed in a special account tied to the card. It is a combinations debit and credit card. You can only "charge" what is in your secured account but you get the protection and benefits of a credit card.
The new law states that filers must take a pre and post budget class. These cost money in Washington state.
If you choose to go "pro se" but hire a typist to prepare your documents, you are still responsible for all the information contained in the forms.
Beware that your filing is public knowledge. I was surprised at the number of predatory lenders that sent me mail immediately after I filed. There was also one attorney who sent me a solicitation letter. You must shred all these letters for your own good.
This book saved me attorney's fees! Worth its weight in gold September 17, 2004
Anne (Colorado)
17 out of 17 found this review helpful
I can't say enough wonderful things about this book!
6 months ago I was contemplating bankruptcy. I searched for a book to help me and decided to buy this one. Honestly, I figured I'd read it, be more confused than ever and have to hire an attorney.
That's NOT what happened. I took a weekend and studied every page of this book and took notes. I filled out and filed my bankruptcy petition on my own. Today, I attended my creditor's meeting. Now, in just 2 months, I'll receive my discharge. All WITHOUT a lawyer!
Filing bankruptcy without a lawyer is more time consuming, but the money saved is worth it. Just take your time and study this book and you'll be fine.
Thank you, Nolo. Buying this book was the best thing I've done this year.
True, true true, iron clad it works! October 11, 2002
Beth Hodges (Texas)
15 out of 21 found this review helpful
I must say, I read this book and ripped the forms right out of the back of the book, and filed a emergency Bankruptcy (BR. I it worked.! The emeregency br worked.! To my total amazement. Anyway, I also used chapter 13 book as well. I was able to handle the 13 and convert on over to a chapter 7. I was able to save my truck, and draft a payroll garnishment right on out of my hubbys paycheck. This was the only way these folks were getting paid. Then some issues arose, and I was able to draft my own interderagatorys. YOu have to check these out. Some of u out there say the book is out dated. It made no difference as far as info. and forms are concerned. U should be greatful for these kinds of books. I found that standing in line to file my paper work behind some of my cities most high power attorneys was just thrilling. There is really nothing to be nervous about at all doing your own civil work. I received more help than I could have imagined. ONly advise I have to give on this particular book. Don't be in a rush. Wait till the little ones are in bed, and read it start to finsih. The judges, were great. NO one chews you up and spits you out, like everyone thinks. I had a few buddy pals of mine say, how can u do this on your own? U have some nerve. What if u make a mistake. Well I did make a few, and I just corrected thru a amendment. No big deals. I did learn why attorneys charge so much. Now I do have alot more respect for their profession. I must admit, It was kind of fun, and a challenge to see if I could do it. U don't have to be a scholar either, or say, I can't cause I don't have a education. I don't have one, just high school, and a bit of tech. school. I did it just fine. I even had one judge tell me my paper work was as good as some work coming from local attorneys offices. I was even asked where I learned to do this paper work, properly! I of course said NOLO! Try this, represent yourself, it save time and money. U will get a great sense of how our legal system really works. ONly other thing I can say, be sooooooooo nice to the court clerks they can make or break u. When I was told I had to wait to file a motion, I said no problemo. I had packed a sandwich and a drink and sat down and read my latest book. I ended up waiting 45 minutes, , I was thanked for waiting. These gals/guys are so swamped. B compassionate. U want them 2 b with u. I had so much help,because I was representing my self. If you hang out long enough up there, u may get free advise. When a attorney offers a free b, sit down, shut up, and listen, and take notes. I did. Hee Hee. :)So tried and true, this is one a must have. Next to my bible this is my favorite one. Size of book is great, fits, in handbags, diaper bag, even on a bike with grocerys. I even spilled coffee on mine on the cover,it didnot stain. Well enough said, check out what I have to say on how to do your own divorce with child support and alimony. :) and a wage garnishment for child support. Did this one too with Nolo books. No other book comes close to NOLO. So don't waste hard earned cash on any one elses. They don't compare to NOLO.
|
|
|
