Can You Open a Bank Account While in Bankruptcy

I get asked this question quite a lot.  I think clients worry about doing something that will affect their bankruptcy; and most Trustees stress that a client should ask their attorney questions before they do anything financial.

Yes, you can open a bank account while you are in a bankruptcy.  There is nothing in the Bankruptcy Code or Court Rules that would prohibit a person filing a bankruptcy from opening an account.  A bank account is essentially just another place for you to store your money.  Banks are sometimes more secure and convenient, so there are advantages to opening a bank account.

However, you should be aware that when you seek to open a bank account many banks and credit unions will run a credit report, and this may affect your ability to open a checking account.  If you cannot get a checking account, you should be able to open a savings account.

You should read some previous blogs below regarding potential issues with a bank account and how a credit could get access to your bank account funds if you are not in a bankruptcy:

• How will Bankruptcy affect my bank account 
• What is a Bank Levy? 
• Is Certain Property Exempt from Garnishment of Your Bank Account?