General Information

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Before you can file for bankruptcy, federal law requires you to complete a credit counseling course from an approved provider. This course must be completed before your bankruptcy petition is filed.

There are many approved providers offering courses at different price points. We have found the following provider to be reliable, affordable, and easy for our clients to use:

Allen Credit & Debt Counseling
Attorney Code (if requested): BW19885

Completing this course is a required first step in both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases.

You are entitled to a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus. Reviewing your credit report helps ensure all debts are properly listed in your bankruptcy case.

👉 Click here to obtain your free credit report

The 341 Meeting of Creditors is a required part of every bankruptcy case. It is conducted by the bankruptcy trustee—not a judge—and typically lasts only a few minutes.

At this time, 341 meetings are conducted via Zoom, not in person at the courthouse.

United States Bankruptcy Court
701 E. Broad Street, 4th Floor (Room 4300)
Richmond, VA 23219

Location Notes:

• Located at the corner of 7th and Broad Streets in downtown Richmond
   
• Bring a valid driver’s license or Virginia-issued ID
   
• Bring your Social Security card
   
• Cell phones are permitted inside the courthouse but must be turned off and secured in pouches provided by security.  Leave larger electronic devices, such as iPads and laptops at home.
   

United States Bankruptcy Court
Federal Courthouse
701 E. Broad Street
Richmond, VA 23219

If you have filed Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you must make regular payments to your assigned trustee. Always include your case number on checks or money orders.

Carl M. Bates

-- Effective January 1, 2026, cases currently assigned to Carl M. Bates, Chapter 13 Trustee, will be reassigned to Michael R. Jones as the new Standing Chapter 13 Trustee
P.O. Box 1433
Memphis, TN 38101

Suzanne Wade
P.O. Box 983
Memphis, TN 38101

For convenience, many clients choose to make Chapter 13 payments electronically.

TFS Bill Pay
📞 Call 888-729-2413
🌐 Visit www.tfsbillpay.com

After your bankruptcy case is discharged, it is strongly recommended that you send a copy of your Discharge Order to each credit bureau, along with a letter requesting that all debts be marked as “included in bankruptcy.”

Equifax
P.O. Box 740256
Atlanta, GA 30374
(800) 525-6285

Experian
701 Experian Parkway
P.O. Box 2002
Allen, TX 75013
(888) 397-3742

TransUnion
Consumer Disclosure Center
P.O. Box 1000
Chester, PA 19022

If you have questions about credit counseling, the 341 meeting, trustee payments, or post-bankruptcy credit reporting, our office is here to help.

📞 Contact Bruce W. White, P.C. today at 804-288-4328 for guidance and support at every stage of your bankruptcy case.

Get the Facts From a Richmond Bankruptcy Attorney

Thousands of individuals and families file for bankruptcy every year due to job loss, medical expenses, divorce, rising living costs, and other financial hardships. Unfortunately, many people delay getting help because of misinformation and long-standing myths about bankruptcy.

At the law office of Bruce W. White, P.C., our Richmond bankruptcy attorney helps clients separate fact from fiction so they can make informed decisions about their financial future.

Not True.

Many people who file bankruptcy are fully employed. While income is considered, having a steady job does not automatically disqualify you from filing. In fact, regular income may make you eligible for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, which allows you to reorganize debt while keeping important assets.

Not True.

Married couples may file jointly, but it is not required. In some situations, it makes more sense for only one spouse to file bankruptcy. The right approach depends on income, assets, debts, and long-term goals. An experienced Richmond bankruptcy attorney can help determine the best option for your family.

Not True.

This is one of the most harmful myths about bankruptcy. The reality is that most bankruptcies are caused by events outside a person’s control, including:

• Serious illness or medical bill 
• Divorce or separation 
• Death of a spouse or wage earner
• Job loss or reduced income
   

Bankruptcy is a legal financial tool, not a personal failure.

Not True.

While bankruptcy can eliminate many unsecured debts—such as credit cards and medical bills—some debts are generally not dischargeable, including:

• Most student loans 
• Recent federal and state taxes
• Child support and alimony
   

Each case is unique. Speaking with a Richmond bankruptcy attorney is the best way to understand which debts may or may not be discharged in your situation.

Not True.

Bankruptcy does impact your credit score, but the effect is not permanent. Many clients begin rebuilding credit soon after filing. In fact, because bankruptcy eliminates overwhelming debt, many people are able to:

• Qualify for auto loans
• Rebuild credit within a few years
• Purchase a home after bankruptcy
   

For many, bankruptcy is the first step toward long-term financial recovery.

At Bruce W. White, P.C., we are proud to have helped thousands of local families regain control of their finances with dignity and respect. Our Richmond office provides clear answers, practical solutions, and personalized attention at every stage of the bankruptcy process.

📞 Call (804) 288-4328 today to schedule a free phone consultation and learn how bankruptcy may help you move forward with confidence.