How to Inspect Personal Finances During Bankruptcy

When you have to file bankruptcy, inspecting your personal finances becomes a priority. You must determine your personal finances in order to file, and then learn how to avoid future bankruptcies. Follow theses steps to determine your personal finances.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Get credit counseling. This can help you understand why you have to file bankruptcy, and you may learn ways to avoid future bankruptcies. Credit counseling may be required before you can file bankruptcy. Counselors normally review the information you provide and offer suggestions based on the information.
2. Know your debts. In bankruptcy you may surrender assets, reaffirm debt and discharge debt. When you inspect your personal finances, consider the debt that won't be discharged during bankruptcy. Keep a list of the companies that are included in your bankruptcy and sort your bills based on the list.
3. Meet with a financial advisor or CPA. Professionals in both these fields can reconcile your bank statements, help you establish a budget and provide you with investment and tax advice. Disclose all financial information to them so that they can do their jobs.
4. Establish a budget and set realistic goals for every category. Stop paying for debts that are included in your bankruptcy. Be sure you make payments for assets, such as your house or car, that you will keep after filing for bankruptcy. Include future payments for student loans that may currently be in deferment or forbearance.
5. Pay for all purchases with a debit card or check. This way all your transactions show on your bank statement and you can track your spending. Allocate each transaction into your budget categories. Use your bank statement to reconcile your account and make adjustments to your future budgets as needed.

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