Bankruptcy Basics

Bankruptcy Basics provides basic information to debtors, creditors, court personnel, the media, and the general public on different aspects of federal bankruptcy law. It also provides individuals who may be considering filing a bankruptcy petition with a basic explanation of the different chapters under which a bankruptcy case may be filed and answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the bankruptcy process.

The United States Bankruptcy Code (title 11, United States Code) and the Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure, are available online and at your local law library. The local rules of practice and procedure adopted by each bankruptcy court are available on each court website or in person at their clerk’s office.

• Process
• The Discharge in Bankruptcy
• Chapter 7. Liquidation Under the Bankruptcy Code
• Chapter 9. Municipality Bankruptcy
• Chapter 11. Reorganization Under the Bankruptcy Code
• Chapter 12. Family Farmer Bankruptcy or Family Fisherman Bankruptcy
• Chapter 13. Individual Debt Adjustment
• Chapter 15. Ancillary and Other Cross-Border Cases
• SCRA. Servicemembers' Civil Relief Act
• SIPA. Securities Investor Protection Act
• Glossary - Terms You Need to Know
• Bankruptcy Forms

While the information presented is accurate as of the date of publication, it should not be cited or relied upon as legal authority. Bankruptcy Basics is not a substitute for the advice of a competent attorney, accountant, or financial advisor, nor is it a step-by-step guide for filing for bankruptcy.

The Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts and individual bankruptcy courts cannot provide legal or financial advice.