How long should I keep a copy of my bankruptcy discharge?

Attorney answers (4)

1. 

   Andrew Myers

   North Andover Bankruptcy Attorney

   Contributor Level 20

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   Answered July 11, 2012 04:09. The discharge comes as a one page document, with explanatory comments on the back. Why wouldn't you keep it forever? With scanners and cloud storage (secured/encrypted, of course) keeping records is easier than in the old days.
   
   But, rest assured, that if you misplace the document, this is a record that will be available permanently through the Federal Public Access Court Electronic Records (PACER) system. One has to have a subscription and the current per-page access fee is ten cents (.10). All bankruptcy attorneys subscribe and if there is ever a question about a discharge violation, the attorney from whom you seek advice would have access.

   Law Offices of Andrew D. Myers, North Andover, MA & Derry, NH provide answers for informational purposes only.... moreLaw Offices of Andrew D. Myers, North Andover, MA & Derry, NH provide answers for informational purposes only. Actual legal advice can only be given by an attorney licensed in your jurisdiction, thoroughly familiar with the area of the law in which your concern lies. This creates no attorney-client relationship. less

   • "THE BANKRUPTCY DISCHARGE - WHAT IT IS AND WHAT IT COVERS" [Click Here to Read More]

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2. 

   Stuart M NachbarPro

   Livingston Bankruptcy Attorney

   Contributor Level 16

   

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   Answered July 11, 2012 07:36. While the other attorney is correct in what he stated, I personally believe that having the paper is better. Attorneys close and destroy files after a certain number of years, courts close files and the computer records can be damamged. It is one sheet of paper, put it in your safetey deposit box. Better safe than sorry.

   The previous information is solely for informational purposes only. If you have further questions, please contact... moreThe previous information is solely for informational purposes only. If you have further questions, please contact an attorney in your area for more specific answers. Responding to your question in no way creates an attorney/client relationship, and none of the specific guarantees of privacy exist. If you have found this information helpful, kindly check the "helpful" box. less

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3. 

   Dorothy G BuncePro

   Las Vegas Bankruptcy Attorney

   Contributor Level 20

   

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   Answered July 11, 2012 09:31. How long do you think you will need this paperwork? For many people, I would say keep it for no more than 3 - 4 years. Far more important is the list of creditors that were included in the paperwork. You can always obtain copies directly from the bankruptcy court for a nominal fee.
   
   Hope this perspective helps!

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4. 

   Gregory WileyPro

   Plano Bankruptcy Attorney

   Contributor Level 16

   

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   Answered July 11, 2012 11:36. I say keep a physical copy, a scanned copy and understand you can get the document from the PACER system if necessary. I recommend keeping it as long as you can. I have countless people call my office wanting another copy after 5 years.

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