How to File Bankruptcy in New York – Step 3
Free Bankruptcy Advice
Based on your income and situation, you may also be eligible for free or reduced legal assistance.
New York Personal Bankruptcy Attorneys
To find New York bankruptcy lawyers in your area, you may want to contact your local bar association or the New York State Bar Association:
New York State Bar Association
1 Elk Street
Albany, NY 12207
(518) 463-3200
Based on income, free bankruptcy advice and representation may also be obtained from the following organizations: See the New York Law Help’s website for a list of organizations that provide legal services to low income clients in New York.
If you are concerned about the representation provided to you by an New York bankruptcy attorney, see the NYSBA’s guide to attorney disciplinary procedures in New York State.
Resources for New York Bankruptcy Laws
U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of New York - administrative and procedural information for Northern District of New York bankruptcy filings
U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York - administrative and procedural information for Southern District of New York bankruptcy filings
U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of New York - administrative and procedural information for Eastern District of New York bankruptcy filings
U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Western District of New York - administrative and procedural information for Western District of New York bankruptcy filings
Office of the U.S. Trustee for Region 2 - oversees the administration of New York personal bankruptcy cases and case trustees
New York State Bar Association - information about the New York bar, membership, ethics, continuing legal education, and resources for the public.
Bankruptcy Information you will need to Collect:
Bankruptcy Information – Assets
- One month of pay stubs for you and your spouse (even if your spouse is not filing)
- Your tax returns for the past two years
- Most recent statements for any bank accounts
- Most recent statements for any investment accounts
- Information regarding the value of any other investments, such as stocks and savings bonds
- Information regarding the cash value and beneficiaries of any life insurance policies
- Information regarding your house, including recent appraisals and a copy of the deed showing how you hold title
- Information regarding vehicles, including make, model and mileage
While the information presented is accurate as of the date of publication, it should not be cited or relied upon as legal authority. It should not be used as a substitute for reference to the United States Bankruptcy Code (title 11, United States Code) and the Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure, both of which may be reviewed at local law libraries, or to local rules of practice adopted by each bankruptcy court. Finally, this publication should not substitute for the advice of competent legal counsel.