As a self-represented individual considering filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, I need to understand the mandatory requirements before filing, and if there's an online tool to help me prepare the petition. What are the two mandatory requirements for individuals before filing a bankruptcy case, and what is the name of the online tool available to help prepare a Chapter 7 petition without an attorney? Additionally, where can I find resources for legal assistance, including free services?
Navigate to 'http://alsb.uscourts.gov/'. Click on the 'Information for Debtors' link. Click on the 'Before You File' link. Identify the two mandatory requirements for individuals before filing a bankruptcy case. Navigate back to the 'Information for Debtors' page. Identify the name of the online tool available to help individuals complete a Chapter 7 bankruptcy petition without an attorney. Click on the 'Legal Assistance' link. Identify the resources provided for finding legal assistance, including free services. Synthesize all gathered information to answer the task.
The agent successfully navigates to the 'Before You File' section. The agent states that 'Credit Counseling' is a mandatory requirement, specifying that it must be obtained from an approved provider within 180 days before filing. The agent states that 'Protecting Your Social Security Number' is a mandatory requirement, specifying that only the last four digits should be on public documents and the full number on a separate, non-public form (Official Form 21). The agent successfully identifies 'eSR' as the online tool to help individuals complete a Chapter 7 bankruptcy petition without an attorney. The agent successfully navigates to the 'Legal Assistance' section. The agent states that resources for legal assistance, including free services, can be found via links to the 'American Bar Association’s Legal Help' and the 'Legal Services Corporation'.