How to File Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Online in Ohio

Do you want to know how to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy online in the state of Ohio? If so, here is the step-by-step process you will need to follow and the pros and cons of filing online.

If you have decided to file for bankruptcy in the state of Ohio, you may want to know how to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy online. This is gradually becoming a more popular option as it is convenient and can help you save time.

Do you need help filing bankruptcy online? If so, check out this article, where we will be discussing how to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy online, why this is a good idea, and whether or not you still need the help of a bankruptcy attorney.

How to File Chapter 7 Online

If you want to file for bankruptcy online, this is an option that can help streamline this process so that it is more convenient. However, this does not mean that you should represent yourself, as you still need to hire a bankruptcy attorney to help you with your petition.

Here is the step-by-step process you need to follow when filing Chapter 7 in Ohio online.

Gather Financial Documents

Like any type of bankruptcy case, one of the most important steps of this process is gathering your financial documentation. Examples of documentation to look for include pay stubs, evidence of additional income, tax returns, bank statements, bills, vehicle titles, and personal identification. You should also include any information regarding life insurance, retirement accounts, loans, child support, divorce documents, or lawsuits.

You also need to include documentation regarding your secured debts, such as car loans or mortgages, and unsecured debt, like credit cards and student loans. Also include information regarding any priority unsecured debt, such as child support, tax debt, or alimony.

It is very important that you also include your bankruptcy discharge if you have ever filed previous bankruptcy cases.

Fill Out Filing Forms

For the next step of the Chapter 7 bankruptcy process, you need to fill out the bankruptcy filing forms. Keep in mind that these forms can be quite complex, and it is necessary that all of the information you provide is entirely accurate and up-to-date.

It is strongly recommended that you work with an Ohio bankruptcy attorney as you are completing your bankruptcy filing forms, as they can ensure accuracy and thoroughness. Having an experienced attorney assist you with this can help you avoid common errors that could delay your case.

Complete Required Courses

According to Ohio bankruptcy law, you have to successfully complete a mandatory credit counseling course before you file for any type of bankruptcy. You also have to complete a debtor education course after you have filed.

The good news is that both of these courses can be taken online for convenience sake. Keep in mind that you will need to pay a fee to take the credit counseling course, which is usually around $25.

Pros and Cons of Filing For Bankruptcy Online

Handling your Chapter 7 bankruptcy case online can make the process seem less daunting and more accessible for more people. There are more resources available online now than ever before, making this exceptionally easy and fast. This is especially useful since many of the documents you need for your petition are already available online in your financial accounts.

Another benefit of filing online is that this will make it easier to track the progress of your case and other details associated with your bankruptcy case. Filing online can also give you the ability to take your time as you are collecting documents and filling out forms, which can help to reduce the risk of common errors.

However, a downside to this is that only lawyers are able to file bankruptcies electronically. If you do not have an attorney filing your case for you, you will have to mail your bankruptcy paperwork to a county clerk instead.

You also still need to go to the 341 meeting of creditors in person, even if you file online. When you attend this meeting, you need to bring many of the same documents you included in your petition, such as tax returns, personal property leases, life insurance policies, etc.

There is also a filing fee for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, which is usually $338. However, there is a fee waiver that could help you avoid having to pay this fee if your income is less than 150% of the Ohio poverty guidelines. Additionally, if you do not meet the poverty guidelines, you can apply for the option to pay the filing fee in monthly installments.

How Long Does Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Take?

Although filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy online can make this process easier and faster, it doesn’t necessarily speed up the actual bankruptcy process. Chapter 7 bankruptcy is already considered to be the fastest bankruptcy option as it is completed in 4 to 6 months after you file. Filing online will not speed this up since it does not have a direct impact on how your bankruptcy case proceeds after you have submitted your petition.

Do You Still Need to Hire a Bankruptcy Attorney When Filing Online?

Even if you are filing for bankruptcy online in Ohio, you still need to hire a bankruptcy attorney. An attorney can help you complete this process, ensuring everything is done correctly, especially when it comes to your bankruptcy filing forms. Making any mistakes on these forms can cause significant delays and may even result in irreversible issues.

On the other hand, you also cannot electronically file your bankruptcy petition yourself, as this can only be done by an attorney. Because of this, if you want to get all of the benefits of filing for bankruptcy online, you need to seek the help of an experienced bankruptcy attorney.

Contact a Bankruptcy Attorney in Ohio

Are you wondering if filing Chapter 7 in Ohio is a good option for your situation? Richard P. Arthur, Attorney at Law, can help you navigate the process of filing for bankruptcy online. Richard P. Arthur has handled hundreds of bankruptcy cases in the state of Ohio and can help ensure you provide the right documentation and information when filing. Contact us today at 937-254-3738 for a consultation.