Define the question before choosing an answer
Use this guide to organize Pay Stubs, Tax Returns, Debts, Notices, Lawsuits and Assets. Start with the controlling record and date, then connect the issue to the bankruptcy chapter, property, debts, and local procedure that may change the answer.
Evidence file for Documents To Bring To A Bankruptcy Attorney
Pay Stubs
The controlling document, exact date, amount or value, people involved, current status, and the source that can verify it.
Tax Returns
Tax type and year, return filing date, assessment, transcript, balance, lien, levy, audit, and payment history.
Debts
Creditor, owner of the account, debt type, balance, contract, collateral, judgment status, dispute, and payment history.
Notices
Court, case number, parties, service date, order, amount, next deadline, and current enforcement status.
Lawsuits
Court, case number, parties, service date, order, amount, next deadline, and current enforcement status.
Assets
Ownership, current value, liens, acquisition date, supporting records, expected payments, and recent changes.
Facts that shape the review
- Use the current official form, approved provider, local instruction, and docket. Completion and proof of completion are separate questions.
Issue log
| Issue | Evidence to preserve | Open question |
|---|---|---|
| Pay Stubs | The controlling document, exact date, amount or value, people involved, current status, and the source that can verify it. | |
| Tax Returns | Tax type and year, return filing date, assessment, transcript, balance, lien, levy, audit, and payment history. | |
| Debts | Creditor, owner of the account, debt type, balance, contract, collateral, judgment status, dispute, and payment history. | |
| Notices | Court, case number, parties, service date, order, amount, next deadline, and current enforcement status. | |
| Lawsuits | Court, case number, parties, service date, order, amount, next deadline, and current enforcement status. | |
| Assets | Ownership, current value, liens, acquisition date, supporting records, expected payments, and recent changes. |
Questions that can change the next step
| Question | Your facts |
|---|---|
| What exact outcome is needed? | |
| What date changes the next step? | |
| Which fact remains unverified? |
Timing caution
If a sale, hearing, deduction, seizure, shutoff, or response deadline is near, use qualified local help rather than waiting for general online information.
Verify with current sources
U.S. Courts Bankruptcy Basics · Official Bankruptcy Forms · Current Means Testing Data · Official source directory