What documentation is required to file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy?

When filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, various documents are required to provide the court with a comprehensive overview of the debtor's financial situation. The necessary documentation generally includes a petition for bankruptcy, which initiates the process. Additionally, debtors must submit schedules detailing their assets, liabilities, income, and expenses. This may encompass information on real estate, personal property, and any outstanding debts. Furthermore, a statement of financial affairs is needed, which provides insights into the debtor's financial history. Income documentation is critical as well; this may involve recent pay stubs, tax returns, and other records reflecting sources of income. A copy of the debtors' credit counseling certificate, obtained from an approved credit counseling agency, is typically required as part of the filing process. It is also essential to prepare a repayment plan that outlines how debts will be repaid over the course of three to five years. Debtors should consider reviewing the current guidelines on the official website of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of North Carolina, as details may change over time.