Consumer advocates of Wisconsin

​

Checklist for Filing a Chapter 7 Case


The following information is a general list of what documentation is needed and what information will be requested by your attorney.  Each case is different, and we may request documents and information not listed below in order to properly advise you and prepare your case.


What do I need to do to file a Chapter 7 case?

  • Have an in-person or phone consultation with an attorney to discuss your financial situation and eligibility for Chapter 7 relief;
  • Pay the agreed upon attorney fees pursuant to the agreed upon terms of payment;
  • Submit all documents requested by your attorney (general list and instructions below);
  • Pay your filing fee of $306.00.  This is the fee required by law to file your Chapter 7 case;
  • Sign your petition and schedules with your attorney.


After you complete these steps, you are required to appear at a "Meeting of Creditors" where you will be asked basic questions about your the documents filed in  your case.  We work hard preparing your documents with you to make sure the "Meeting of Creditors" is smooth and stress free.


What documents do I need to provide to my attorney to file a Chapter 7 case?


  • Proof of Income:  Usually, this includes pay stubs, benefit letters, and any other documentation showing your gross income for the six months before your case was filed.
  • Tax Returns:  Provide the last two years state and federal tax returns.
  • Car Titles:  Clients who own vehicles must provide a copy of the title for each vehicle they own that has a lien on it.  Some clients will have an original copy of their title.  Other clients may have purchased their vehicle after Wisconsin changed its law and the title may be held by the creditor who has a lien on their vehicle.  Most Trustees accept a print out from the DMV.  To use this database, you must have the VIN number for your vehicle.  If your Trustee does not accept this print out, you will be required to request a confirmation of the security interest from the creditor. 
  • Recorded Deed: If you own real estate, including a home, rental property, or vacant lot, you must provide a copy of your recorded deed.  Most clients will not have a copy of the recorded deed, and to obtain a copy you will need to go to the Register of Deeds office in the County where the property you own is located.
  • Recorded Mortgage(s):  If you own real estate and have a mortgage or multiple mortgages on the property, you must provide a copy of each recorded mortgage for each mortgage on the property.  Most clients will not have a copy of the recorded  mortgage, and to obtain a copy you will need to go to the Register of Deeds office in the County where the property you own is located.