What Is an Emergency Filing?
If your next paycheck is about to be garnished, you can file a "bare petition" -- just the petition form (Official Form 101) without the full schedules. This triggers the automatic stay immediately, stopping all garnishments.
The 14-Day Deadline
After filing a bare petition, you have 14 days to complete and file the remaining documents: schedules, statement of financial affairs, means test, and credit counseling certificate. If you miss this deadline, the court will dismiss your case.
Steps to Emergency File
Complete Official Form 101 (the petition). Gather your government ID and Social Security proof. Go to the bankruptcy court clerk's office or file electronically. Pay the filing fee or file a fee waiver request. Immediately notify your employer and the garnishing creditor of the filing. Complete all remaining documents within 14 days.
Learn about filing requirements
Filing Guide