This will be the first in a series of blog posts that will focus on completing bankruptcy schedules. We’ll start in this blog with the first schedule – Schedule A/B.
Bankruptcy can be a complex and overwhelming process, but it’s important to accurately complete the required forms and schedules to ensure that your case proceeds smoothly. One of the key schedules that must be completed is Schedule A/B, which lists all of the debtor’s personal property and assets. In this blog post, we’ll go over the basics of completing Schedule A/B in a bankruptcy case.
Step 1: Gather Information
Before you can start filling out Schedule A/B, you’ll need to gather all the necessary information about your personal property and assets. This can include things like your home, car, furniture, electronics, jewelry, and other items of value. Make sure to be thorough in your inventory, and don’t leave anything out.
Step 2: Determine the Value of Your Property
Once you’ve compiled a list of all your personal property and assets, the next step is to determine the value of each item. The value should be based on the fair market value, which is the price that a willing buyer would pay to a willing seller in an arm’s length transaction.
There are several ways to determine the value of your property. You can use online resources like Zillow or Redfin to estimate the value of your home, or use sites like Kelley Blue Book or NADA to estimate the value of your car. For other items like jewelry or electronics, you may need to get an appraisal from a qualified appraiser.
Step 3: Classify Your Property
After you’ve determined the value of each item, the next step is to classify your property according to the categories listed on Schedule A/B. These categories include:
- Real property: This includes any land or buildings you own, such as your home or rental property.
- Personal property: This includes items like furniture, clothing, electronics, and appliances.
- Vehicles: This includes cars, trucks, boats, and motorcycles.
- Other assets: This includes things like bank accounts, stocks, bonds, and retirement accounts.
Be sure to list each item under the appropriate category, and include the value for each item.
Step 4: Complete the Form
At this point, it may be enough for you to simply forward the information compiled to your bankruptcy attorney, who will complete the form for you. If you don’t have a bankruptcy attorney, then once you’ve classified all your property, it’s time to complete the form itself. The form will ask for your name, case number, and other basic information, as well as a detailed listing of your personal property and assets.
Make sure to fill out the form completely and accurately, and don’t leave anything out. If you’re not sure about how to classify an item or determine its value, seek the advice of a bankruptcy attorney.
Step 5: Review and File
After you or your attorney have completed Schedule A/B, review it carefully to make sure everything is accurate and complete. Once you’re satisfied with the form, you or your attorney will need to file it with the bankruptcy court, along with the rest of your bankruptcy paperwork.
Completing Schedule A/B is one of the first important steps of the bankruptcy process. By following these steps and seeking the guidance of a bankruptcy attorney if needed, you can ensure that your personal property and assets are accurately listed and accounted for, and that your bankruptcy case proceeds smoothly.
Resources
Bankruptcy Schedules
- Schedule A/B
- Schedule C
- Schedule D
- Schedule E
- Schedule F
- Schedule G
- Schedule H
- Schedule I
- Schedule J
Need assistance in managing the bankruptcy process? Freeman Law attorneys offer unique cross-disciplinary expertise in taxation, litigation, and forensic accounting and asset tracing, positioning the Firm to handle complex bankruptcy litigation on behalf of debtors, creditors, and trustees, as well as bankruptcy taxation matters. Our Firm offers value-driven services and provides practical solutions to navigate complex bankruptcy laws. Contact Freeman Law to schedule a consultation or call (214) 984-3000 to discuss your tax or bankruptcy concerns.
