Minimum Requirements

If circumstances arise where you cannot complete all required schedules and statements listed on the Chapter 7 Checklist or the Chapter 13 Checklist, complete steps 1 through 3 and file either in person or by mail.    See also:  Where to File

For a full list of requirements see:  Chapter 7 Checklist & Forms or Chapter 13 Checklist & Forms


1. Petition

Complete a Voluntary Petition, signed by the debtor(s).


2. Statement of Social Security Number

Statement of Social Security Number – The clerk’s office is required by law to obtain your full nine-digit social security number. Complete and sign Official Form B121, Statement of Social Security Number. This document will not be made available to the general public.


3. Filing Fee

Payment from debtors may be in the form of online payment, a cashier's check or money order made payable to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court. The clerk’s office does not accept cash.

Personal checks, bill pay checks, debit cards, or credit cards will not be accepted from debtors.
Individual debtors who cannot afford to pay the filing fee may file an Application to Pay the Filing Fee in Installments.  An Application to Pay the Filing Fee in Installments will be denied if a debtor has unpaid filing fees in a bankruptcy case filed in the Western District of Washington within the last 8 years.  If an application is denied the full filing fee will be due within 7 days or your case may be dismissed.

Qualified chapter 7 individual debtors may file an Application to Have the Chapter 7 Filing Fee Waived, no money due at the time of filing. 

See also:

Poverty Guidelines for Chapter 7 Fee Waiver

Bankruptcy Case Policy on Fee Waivers.