Confirm you qualify for Chapter 7 using the Texas median income test and means test
Gather financial documents, including pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, debts, assets, and monthly expenses
Complete the required credit counseling course from an approved provider within 180 days before filing
Decide whether to file individually or jointly with a spouse
Choose the correct Texas bankruptcy court district based on where you live
Prepare the bankruptcy petition, schedules, statement of financial affairs, and other required forms
List all creditors, assets, income, expenses, and recent financial transactions accurately and completely
File the bankruptcy paperwork with the appropriate Texas bankruptcy court
Pay the filing fee or request to pay in installments or apply for a fee waiver if eligible
Receive the automatic stay that stops most collection actions
Attend the meeting of creditors under Section 341
Provide the trustee with any requested documents before or after the meeting
Complete the required debtor education course after filing
File the certificate of completion for the debtor education course with the court
Respond to any trustee or court requests for additional information
Claim Texas or federal exemptions as allowed to protect eligible property
Wait for the trustee to review the case and determine whether any nonexempt assets will be liquidated
Object to any claims or motions if necessary within the required deadlines
Receive the discharge order if the case is completed successfully
Keep copies of all filed documents and the discharge order for your records