How to File Chapter 7 in Mississippi

Filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Mississippi requires several steps.

Before filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Mississippi, you should be sure you want to do so. Declaring bankruptcy will hurt your credit scores and hinder your chances at obtaining future loans. Before filing bankruptcy, you must complete a credit counseling course at a state approved program. You also must complete a debtor education course at a state approved agency before your case can be discharged. Lists and contact information for these programs can be found in the Resources section.

Things You'll Need

• $170 filing fee
• Relevant financial documents
• Credit counseling course completion certificate
• Debtor Education certificate

Instructions

1. Gather all financial documents that you have, including bills, bank statements, debt notices, and pay stubs. You will need to prove that you are not financially able to pay off your debts The court will also run a means test to see if your annual income is less than the median income for the state of Mississippi. If it is not you will not be able to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

2. Bring the course certificates, financial documents and filing fee to a local bankruptcy courthouse and request the Mississippi Bankruptcy Petition Form. Once you complete the form, the clerk will give you a Statement of Financial Affairs form. Fill out that form as well, and keep track of the copy given to you by the clerk. The other copy will go to the judge, who will decide whether or not you can be granted a hearing.

3. Attend your bankruptcy hearing on the date scheduled. You will be notified by mail, and it is advised to hire a bankruptcy lawyer to help you, if possible. After the hearing is over, if the judge rules in your favor you will be able to declare Chapter 7 bankruptcy and have your debts wiped clean.

Tips & Warnings

• To locate a bankruptcy courthouse nearest to you, call 601-965-5301.

References

• USA Bankruptcy Guide: Mississippi Bankruptcy

Resources

• U.S. Department of Justice: Credit Counseling Programs in Mississippi
• U.S. Department of Justice: Debtor Education Programs in Mississippi