You Have Taken an Important Step
Scheduling a bankruptcy consultation takes courage, and it shows that you are ready to take control of your financial future. Many of our clients tell us that the consultation itself brought them a sense of relief they had not felt in months, sometimes years.
The more prepared you are when you walk through our door, the more productive your free consultation will be. Your attorney can give you clearer guidance, answer your specific questions, and help you understand your options when they have a full picture of your financial situation.
This checklist is designed to make the preparation process simple and stress-free. Gather what you can, and do not worry about having everything perfectly organized. Estimates and partial records are a great starting point. Your attorney is here to help fill in the gaps.
You do not need every single document listed here to have a productive consultation. Bring what you have, and your attorney will let you know what else may be needed as your case develops.
Section 1: Income Documentation
Your attorney will need to understand your household income to evaluate your eligibility for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy under the federal means test. Gathering these records now will save time and help your attorney provide accurate guidance.
Employment Income
Other Sources of Income
Spouse or Household Income
If you are self-employed, bring your profit and loss statements and business bank statements from the last 6 months. If your tax returns are not yet filed, let your attorney know. Unfiled returns can be addressed as part of the process.
Section 2: Debt Information
A complete picture of what you owe is essential for your attorney to recommend the best path forward. Your bankruptcy petition will require a detailed list of all creditors, so this is a great time to begin gathering that information.
Credit Card and Unsecured Debt
Medical Debt
Student Loans
Secured Debts
Tax Debts and Government Obligations
Collection Activity
A free credit report can help ensure you have not missed any debts. However, not all debts appear on credit reports, so also gather any bills, statements, or collection letters you have received directly.
Section 3: Asset Information
Understanding what you own helps your attorney determine which bankruptcy exemptions apply under Pennsylvania law to protect your property. Many people are surprised to learn that most clients keep everything they own through the bankruptcy process.
Real Estate
Vehicles
Financial Accounts
Other Valuable Property
Pennsylvania allows you to choose between state and federal bankruptcy exemptions. In many cases, your attorney can protect your home, vehicles, retirement savings, and personal belongings. Bringing accurate values will allow your attorney to advise you on the best exemption strategy.
Section 4: Monthly Expense Overview
Your monthly living expenses are used to complete Schedule J of the bankruptcy petition and play a role in determining your eligibility and, if applicable, your Chapter 13 repayment plan amount.
Housing
Utilities and Services
Transportation
Living Expenses
Insurance
Other Regular Expenses
Estimates are perfectly acceptable for your initial consultation. A rough monthly budget gives your attorney enough information to begin evaluating your options.
Section 5: Legal Documents and Notices
If you are facing legal action related to your debts, these documents are especially important. Filing for bankruptcy triggers the automatic stay, which can immediately halt many of these proceedings.
Court Actions
Property Threats
Family Law
Prior Bankruptcy
If you have received a garnishment notice or a foreclosure warning, bring it to your consultation right away. Filing for bankruptcy can stop these actions immediately through the automatic stay protection.
Section 6: Tips for Getting Organized
Preparing for a bankruptcy consultation does not need to be stressful. Here are a few simple guidelines:
Do not stress about perfection. Your attorney is trained to work with incomplete information. Bring what you have, and your attorney will help you fill in any gaps.
Estimates are a great start. If you are unsure of an exact balance or a property value, your best estimate is far better than nothing.
Use a simple folder or envelope. You do not need a filing system. A single folder, envelope, or even a bag of documents is perfectly fine.
Write down your questions. Your consultation is your time to get answers. Jot down anything you are wondering about.
Be open and honest. Everything you share with your bankruptcy attorney is protected by attorney-client privilege. The more complete the picture, the better your attorney can protect you.
Section 7: What Happens at Your Consultation
Walking into a new attorney’s office can feel uncertain. Knowing what to expect can ease that anxiety and help you feel prepared.
During your free consultation with the Law Offices of John M. Hyams, your attorney will review your financial situation in a confidential, judgment-free setting. You will discuss your debts, assets, income, and the circumstances that brought you to this point.
Based on that information, your attorney will explain your options clearly, whether Chapter 7, Chapter 13, or another approach is the best fit for your goals. You will learn what property you can protect, what debts can be eliminated, and what the process looks like from start to finish.
You will also have the opportunity to ask any questions and get honest, straightforward answers. There is no pressure and no obligation.
At the Law Offices of John M. Hyams, we have spent over 20 years helping clients from all walks of life get a fresh start. Recognized as Simply the Best by Harrisburg Magazine in 2020, 2024, and 2025, our firm is dedicated to one promise: keep everything you own, get rid of your debt, and move on with your life.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Download the printable version of this checklist and schedule your free, confidential consultation today.
Schedule Your Free Consultation
Or call 717.520.0300 | 7 Central PA locations | In-person, phone, or online
Frequently Asked Questions
Legal Disclaimer: This checklist is provided for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Every financial situation is unique, and results may vary based on individual circumstances. For personalized guidance, schedule a free consultation with a qualified bankruptcy attorney. The Law Offices of John M. Hyams is a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code. This communication is attorney advertising in compliance with Pennsylvania Bar rules.