The best way to start your investigation of bankruptcy as a potential option is to begin gathering your personal financial information. In order to evaluate whether you will qualify to file for bankruptcy protection you must determine what your income has been during the past 6 months. This calculation must use your gross (before taxes and other deductions) income from your employment or any other source. This calculation of income must include not only your income, but also that of your spouse (even if your spouse does not plan on filing for bankruptcy with you).
Once we have that total income number, we will also need your monthly expenses. Your check book register is usually a good place to start. Your expenses will include all of those necessities, such as mortgage or rent, utilities, food, insurance, auto payments, gasoline, court ordered payments, etc.
Having a good grasp of your income and expenses will go a long way in making your initial consultation worthwhile.
