Confirm you qualify for Chapter 7 using the means test
Gather financial records, debts, income, expenses, assets, and recent transactions
Complete required credit counseling from an approved provider
Download the official bankruptcy forms for your district
Fill out the petition, schedules, statement of financial affairs, and related forms
List all creditors, property, income, expenses, and recent transfers accurately
Review exemptions available in your state or federal system
Complete any required local forms for your bankruptcy court
File the completed forms with the bankruptcy court
Pay the filing fee or request to pay in installments or seek a fee waiver if eligible
Receive your case number and trustee assignment
File any additional documents the court requires after filing
Attend the meeting of creditors under oath
Provide the trustee with requested documents before the meeting
Complete the required debtor education course
File the certificate of completion with the court
Respond promptly to any trustee or court requests
Keep making required payments on secured debts you want to keep
Follow all court deadlines and notices
Wait for discharge if no objections or issues arise
Keep copies of all filed documents and court notices