If you’re filing for bankruptcy, it’s completely normal to feel nervous about the 341 Meeting of Creditors. Many people worry they’ll be aggressively questioned or embarrassed.
The reality? In most consumer cases, the meeting is short, straightforward, and lasts about 5–10 minutes.
Here’s what you can expect.
First, What Is the 341 Meeting?
The 341 meeting (named after Section 341 of the Bankruptcy Code) is a required hearing in every bankruptcy case. It is:
- Conducted by the bankruptcy trustee
- Not held in front of a judge
- Usually held remotely (via Zoom or telephone in many districts)
- Under oath
The trustee’s job is to verify that your bankruptcy petition is accurate and complete.
Standard Questions Almost Everyone Is Asked
Most trustees follow a routine script. Common questions include:
Identity and Oath
- Please state your full name for the record.
- Did you provide your photo ID and proof of Social Security number?
- Did you review and sign your bankruptcy petition before it was filed?
- Is everything in your petition true and correct to the best of your knowledge?
Questions About Your Assets
The trustee needs to confirm that you’ve listed everything you own. You may be asked:
- Have you listed all of your bank accounts?
- Do you own any real estate?
- Do you have any interest in a business?
- Are you owed any money by anyone?
- Do you expect a tax refund?
- Have you filed any lawsuits, or do you have the right to file one?
Bankruptcy requires full disclosure — even if you believe an asset is protected.
Questions About Recent Transfers
Trustees often ask:
- Have you transferred or given away any property in the last two years?
- Have you repaid any family members or friends before filing?
- Have you sold any property recently?
These questions help ensure that assets weren’t improperly moved before filing.
Questions About Income
You may be asked:
- Is your current income the same as listed in your petition?
- Have you had any recent raises, bonuses, or changes in employment?
- Do you expect any changes in income?
This confirms eligibility and ensures the means test information is accurate.
Questions About Debts
Sometimes trustees will ask:
- Have you listed all of your creditors?
- Are you required to pay domestic support (child support or alimony)?
- Have you filed bankruptcy before?
Will Creditors Ask Me Questions?
Creditors have the right to appear and ask questions — but in most routine consumer cases, they do not attend.
If they do appear, it is usually because:
- There is a dispute about collateral (like a vehicle), or
- They believe there may be fraud (which is rare in typical consumer filings).
Your attorney will be present to guide you.
What the Trustee Is NOT There to Do
The trustee is not there to:
- Judge you
- Shame you
- Lecture you
- Force you into repayment plans
Their role is simply to administer the case according to bankruptcy law.
How to Prepare
The best way to ensure a smooth 341 meeting:
- Be honest and accurate in your paperwork
- Provide all requested documents to your attorney in advance
- Review your petition before the meeting
- Listen carefully and answer only the question asked
Clear, truthful answers make the meeting quick and painless.
The Bottom Line
For most people, the 341 meeting is much less intimidating than expected. It’s a brief verification process designed to confirm that your bankruptcy filing is accurate and complete.
With proper preparation and experienced counsel, it’s typically just another step toward your financial fresh start.
If you have questions about filing for bankruptcy or what to expect at your 341 meeting, our office is here to help guide you every step of the way.
Read More: Meeting of Creditors Questions
