Can I Keep My Personal Information Private in Bankruptcy?
Filing for bankruptcy can feel like a sensitive matter. While hundreds of thousands of people file each year, those filing typically want to keep the information private. Unfortunately, Chapter 13 bankruptcy filings are public records, but that doesn't mean anyone in your life will know about the filing.
The Craig Black Law Firm is aware of the concerns consumers have when they're considering Chapter 13. I work directly with my clients to ease any worries while also walking them through what to expect. If you're considering a bankruptcy filing, call me at 678-888-1778 or fill out this confidential contact form.
Accessibility of Bankruptcy Records
All bankruptcy filings go through the federal court system, and the federal court system makes its records available to the public. That means anyone who wants information on your bankruptcy will be able to find it.
That doesn't mean your full financial details are out there for everyone to see, though. Only basic details of your filing are public, so even if someone does go to the trouble of diving into the details, the only information provided will be:
- Your gross income
- The sources of your gross income
- Your assets, including bank accounts, stocks, and real property
- Businesses you own or in which you've invested
- Your creditors, their addresses, and the amount you owe to each
Accessing Bankruptcy Filings
Although bankruptcy filings are public records, you don't have to worry about coworkers and neighbors stumbling upon your bankruptcy filing. The information can only be accessed one of the following ways:
- By signing up and requesting the information through the Public Access to Court Electronic Records (PACER) system
- By visiting the federal court where the bankruptcy was filed
- By requesting a copy of the documents by mail from the federal court where the bankruptcy was filed.
A requestor will need to pay a fee for each of the above methods. If someone doesn't know you've filed for bankruptcy, the odds of such a search are unlikely.
Protected Information in Bankruptcy
Obviously, the federal courts don't provide information that could be used for identity theft. Details like your Social Security number, account numbers, and date of birth will be redacted. The names of any minor children will also be protected. Those parties will be named only by initials.
If you have reason to believe your bankruptcy information needs additional protections, you can petition the court to seal the entire document or certain sections of it. But this usually isn't necessary. The government takes privacy protections seriously and will make every effort to safeguard sensitive data.
Legal Help with Your Bankruptcy Filing
If you're considering filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you don't have to navigate the process alone. The Craig Black Law Firm will work personally with you through each step of the process. When you call my office at 678-888-1778, I'll be the one who answers the phone and discusses your case details personally. You can also complete this form to get in touch.