If you are filing for bankruptcy, you will be required to attend a 341 Meeting of Creditors (also called the “meeting of creditors”). One of the most common questions we hear is:

“Do I have to go to court in person?”

In most cases today, the answer is no.

What Is a 341 Meeting?

The 341 meeting is a short hearing conducted by the bankruptcy trustee. It is not held in front of a judge, and it is usually very straightforward.

During the meeting, the trustee:

• Places you under oath
• Verifies your identity
• Asks basic questions about your bankruptcy petition
• Confirms that your paperwork is accurate and complete

Creditors are allowed to attend, but in consumer cases, they rarely appear.

Are 341 Meetings Held by Zoom?

Since the pandemic, most bankruptcy courts transitioned to remote 341 meetings — typically conducted by:

• Zoom
• Telephone
• Occasionally Microsoft Teams (depending on the trustee)

In many districts, remote meetings have become the standard practice because they are more efficient and convenient.

However, procedures can vary by district and trustee, so it’s important to confirm how your specific meeting will be conducted.

What to Expect at a Zoom 341 Meeting

If your meeting is held by Zoom:

• You will receive login instructions in advance
• You must show a valid photo ID
• You may need to provide proof of your Social Security number
• You must be in a quiet location
• You should dress appropriately

The meeting itself typically lasts 5–10 minutes for straightforward cases.

What Types of Questions Are Asked?

Common questions include:

• Did you review your bankruptcy petition before filing?
• Is everything listed true and accurate?
• Have you listed all of your assets and debts?
• Have you transferred any property recently?

The trustee’s role is simply to verify information — not to judge you.

Do You Need an Attorney Present?

Yes. Your attorney should attend the 341 meeting with you (virtually or otherwise) and guide you through the process. Preparation beforehand makes the meeting smooth and stress-free.

The Bottom Line

In most consumer Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases today, 341 meetings are conducted remotely via Zoom or telephone. They are brief, straightforward, and far less intimidating than many people expect.

If you are considering bankruptcy and have questions about what to expect, our office can walk you through every step of the process — including preparing you for your 341 meeting so there are no surprises.