Do I need my credit reports before I file for Bankruptcy?

This is a question that we get on a daily basis. We strongly urge and advise clients to obtain a copy of all three credit reports from the three main credit bureaus, Experian, Equifax and Transunion. You can obtain one FREE credit report each year from each credit bureau by visiting www.annualcreditreport.com or by phone at 877-322-8228. In our opinion, this is the best way to get your credit reports. In some instances, you may need to provide proof of your home mailing address in the form of a utility bill, phone bill, etc., in order to get your free reports.

The three main credit bureaus are as follows: Experian, toll free 888-397-3742, Equifax, toll free 800-685-1111, ; and Transunion, toll free 888-503-0048.

It is very important to be sure and include ALL creditors from your credit reports in your bankruptcy filing. Any creditor who is NOT listed in your bankruptcy petition will still be free to pursue you for its debt after your case is done if you did not list them.

Of course, it is also very important that you keep copies of bills that you receive and try to maintain a good record of who you owe and what you owe including the original bills and any debt collection companies that contact you.

Another common question we are frequently asked is “Can the creditor still collect from me if they have not reported the debt to my credit report?” The answer is yes. That is why we urge all of our clients to be as thorough as possible in collecting information about creditors to include checking all three credit reports and keeping a personal record of all bills and making sure that all debts are listed in their bankruptcy petition.

Our office would be happy to help you with any and all bankruptcy matters. If you would like to set up a free consultation appointment to discuss your options in a private, confidential meeting with one of our licensed attorneys, please contact the Bond and Botes office nearest to you to schedule an appointment to meet personally and privately with one of our attorneys.