The 90 days before you file is one of the most important windows in a bankruptcy case. Trustees and creditors often review this period closely, so it’s smart to pause major financial moves and get legal advice before doing anything unusual.

Here’s a cleaner, SEO-friendly checklist you can use.

Within 90 days before filing, avoid these common mistakes:

• Don’t pay one creditor off in full (especially if other debts are going unpaid)
• Don’t settle a lawsuit or judgment without bankruptcy advice first
• Don’t take cash advances (credit cards, payday loans, apps, etc.)
• Don’t make luxury purchases or large discretionary spending
• Don’t transfer money to family or friends (even if you “owe” them)
• Don’t move or close bank accounts to hide funds
• Don’t sell or “gift” assets for less than fair value
• Don’t take on new debt you can’t realistically repay

Rule of thumb: If it’s a big financial move, a transfer, or a sudden change in spending, pause and ask first. Planning ahead prevents avoidable trustee questions and delays.

Pre-Filing Financial Checklist (What to Gather Before You File)

Having documents ready makes your case faster, smoother, and less stressful. Before filing, gather:

Income + taxes

• Last 6 months of pay stubs (or proof of income if self-employed)
• Last 2 years of tax returns

Bank + financial accounts

• 2–6 months of bank statements (checking/savings)
• Retirement account statements (401(k), IRA, pension)

Home, car, and major contracts

• Vehicle titles + auto loan statements
• Mortgage statements (and HOA statements if applicable)
• Lease agreements (apartment or vehicle)

Debts + legal issues

• Credit card statements
• Loan statements (personal loans, medical bills, etc.)
• Lawsuit paperwork (summons/complaints, judgments, garnishments)

Budget + transfers

• List of monthly expenses (housing, utilities, insurance, food, childcare, etc.)
• List of recent transfers (typically covering the last 2 years, including payments to family/friends)

Bottom line: Good preparation prevents delays—and helps your attorney spot issues early.

90-Day “Do NOT” Checklist Before Filing

Within 90 days before filing:

☐ Do not repay one creditor in full
☐ Do not settle large lawsuits without advice
☐ Do not take cash advances
☐ Do not make luxury purchases
☐ Do not transfer money to family
☐ Do not close bank accounts to hide funds
☐ Do not sell assets below value
☐ Do not incur new debt you cannot repay

Pause major financial moves and seek guidance first.

Pre-Filing Financial Checklist

Before filing, gather:

☐ 6 months of pay stubs
☐ 2 years of tax returns
☐ 2–6 months of bank statements
☐ Retirement account statements
☐ Vehicle titles & loan statements
☐ Mortgage statements
☐ Lease agreements
☐ Credit card statements
☐ Lawsuit paperwork
☐ List of monthly expenses
☐ List of recent transfers (last 2 years)

Preparation prevents delays.