To prep for bankruptcy, list all debts (even uncertain ones), review credit reports, check Wisconsin Circuit Court Access for judgments, and consult an attorney.
When filing for bankruptcy, it’s essential to get a comprehensive picture of your total debt. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make sure you list all possible debts:
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List All Bills and Known Debts: Start with what you know you owe, such as loans, credit card balances, medical bills, and personal debts. Include any regular bills, even if they seem minor.
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Include Any Uncertain Debts: If you think you might owe on an old utility bill or service like Spectrum or We Energies, list it. It's better to be thorough and include everything, even if you’re unsure.
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Review Credit Reports: Access your credit reports from the three major bureaus – TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian. These reports show credit accounts, collections, and other debts in your name. You can get one free report from each bureau annually at AnnualCreditReport.com.
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Check for Judgments or Pending Lawsuits in Wisconsin: If you live in Wisconsin, use the Wisconsin Circuit Court Access site to see if there are any judgments or pending lawsuits against you. You can access this information at WCCA.
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Review Financial Records and Emails: Look through past financial records and emails to catch any other possible debts, such as subscriptions or old accounts not on your credit report.
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Consult with an Attorney: An attorney, like the team at Miller & Miller, can guide you through the process to ensure all potential debts are included, even if you’re not certain about some of them.
By gathering all possible information, you can be confident that your bankruptcy filing is thorough and accurately reflects all your obligations.