341 Meeting of Creditors – Complete Guide

The 341 Meeting of Creditors is a required step in every bankruptcy case. This page is designed to help you understand what the meeting is, how to prepare, and where to find resources to practice and feel confident. It includes links to trustee resources, common questions, videos, and checklists.

What is the 341 Meeting?

• The 341 meeting is not a court hearing—there is no judge present.
• It is a recorded interview between you and the bankruptcy trustee.
• Creditors may attend but usually do not.
• The meeting generally lasts 5–15 minutes.
• The trustee will ask questions about your financial situation and verify that your bankruptcy paperwork is accurate and complete.

Who Attends

• You (the debtor)
• Your attorney
• The bankruptcy trustee
• Creditors (optional – they may attend but rarely do)

What to Expect

1. Identity Verification – You must present government-issued photo ID and proof of your Social Security number.  You will not show this on screen – we will provide this to the Trustee’s office in advance of your hearing.
2. Oath – You will be placed under oath to tell the truth.
3. Questions from the Trustee – Covering your assets, debts, income, expenses, and any recent financial transactions.
4. Creditor Questions – Creditors (if present) may also ask questions.

Key Resources

• Sample Trustee Questions (PDF): CLICK HERE
• U.S. Trustee Info on 341 Meetings: CLICK HERE
• Preparing for Your 341 Meeting (Video): CLICK HERE
• Trustee Zoom Info: CLICK HERE
• Zoom Test Meeting: CLICK HERE

How to Prepare

• Review your bankruptcy petition and schedules carefully—be ready to confirm that everything is true and complete.
• Gather identification documents:
  • Driver’s license, state ID, military ID, or passport.
  • Social Security card, W‑2, or SSA letter.
• Prepare financial documents requested by your trustee: tax returns, bank statements, pay stubs, mortgage/loan documents, and insurance declarations.
• Test Zoom connection if your meeting is virtual.
• Practice answering questions honestly and concisely.

Common Trustee Questions

Here are some examples of what you may be asked:

• Did you review and sign your bankruptcy petition and schedules?
• Is all of the information true and complete?
• Did you list all your assets and debts?
• Have you transferred or given away property in the past few years?
• Do you expect to receive an inheritance, settlement, or tax refund?
• Have you filed all required tax returns?
• Are you current on child support or alimony obligations?

Tip: These questions are not designed to trick you. Trustees just need to confirm accuracy.

Practicing for Zoom 341 Meetings

Most trustees now conduct 341 meetings via Zoom.

• Use the Zoom Test Meeting to check your camera, audio, and internet connection.
• Label your Zoom name as your full legal name.
• Choose a quiet, private, and well-lit location.
• Keep your phone handy as a backup in case of connection issues.
• If you are unsure how to use Zoom, contact our office—we’ll practice with you in advance.

Client Checklists

Before the Meeting

• Provide all documents requested by the Trustee to our office; and
• Set up and practice for your 341 Meeting with Attorney Ginsburg.

Day of the Meeting

• Dress appropriately – professional but comfortable; avoid casual or distracting clothing
• Be in a quiet area without distractions – choose a private space where you won’t be interrupted.
• No one else in the room – only you should be present during the meeting.
• Have your documents ready – keep your bankruptcy petition, schedules, and (if applicable) your Chapter 13 plan handy. If you need a copy emailed to you in advance, please email us at least 48 hours prior to the hearing at bankruptcy@ginsburglawgroup.com.
• Log in early – join the Zoom meeting a few minutes before your scheduled time to avoid delays.
• Mute until called – keep your microphone muted until the trustee calls your case.

After the Meeting

• If requested, provide additional documents promptly.
• Complete your Debtor Education Course (required for discharge).
• Stay in contact with your attorney about next steps.

Questions or Concerns?

During your 341 Prep Attorney Ginsburg will:

• Walk through common questions with you.
• Practice Zoom setup.
• Review your petition and documents together.

Remember: You are not alone—we’re here to help guide you through every step of the process.