Most people picture a courtroom when they hear the words meeting of creditors. In practice it is a short, routine session with the bankruptcy trustee, and it is the only time most people filing Chapter 7 have to appear anywhere.
When it happens
The meeting is usually scheduled about a month after your case is filed. The notice the court sends to you and your creditors lists the date and time and explains how to attend. In many cases the meeting is now held by video rather than in person.
What the trustee asks
You answer questions under oath. Most of them confirm what is already in your paperwork:
- Did you read and sign your petition, and is everything in it true?
- Have you listed everything you own and everyone you owe?
- Have you transferred property or repaid anyone in the period before filing?
- Are you expecting a tax refund, an inheritance, or a legal settlement?
Creditors are allowed to attend and ask questions, but they rarely do.
What to bring
Bring a government-issued photo ID and proof of your Social Security number, such as your card. The trustee may also ask for recent pay stubs, bank statements, or a tax return before the meeting. We tell you exactly what to send and when.
How we prepare you
We go over the questions with you beforehand and attend the meeting with you. If something in your case needs explaining, we raise it with the trustee so you are not caught off guard.
Have a question about your own case? Book a free consultation.
