In this section we will discuss the steps in how to file for bankruptcy. If you would like any further information or advice on how to declare yourself bankrupt, then please call 0800 074 6918 for information on how to file for bankruptcy

There are three fees you may have to pay:

1. The Court fee of £120
   In some circumstances the Court may waive this fee; for example, if you are on Income Support. If you are not sure whether you qualify for a reduction in the fee, or if you are exempt from paying the fee, Court staff will be able to advise you.
   
   
2. The deposit of £250 towards the costs of administering your bankruptcy.
   This deposit is payable in all cases.
   
   
3. The fee to swear the statement of affairs.
   In a County Court, no charge is made to swear the affidavit, which is part of your statement of affairs. But in the High Court or before a solicitor there is a £7 charge.
   
   If you are a married couple and you are both applying for bankruptcy, you will each have to pay separate fees. If you were in business as a partnership, each partner will have to pay separate fees, unless all the parties apply for a joint bankruptcy petition under the Insolvent Partnerships Order 1994 (Form 16).
   
   The above fees should be paid in cash, postal orders, or by a building society, bank or solicitor's cheque. Cheques should be made payable to H M Paymaster General. Personal cheques will not be accepted.

How to file for bankruptcy

Bankruptcy petitions are usually presented either at the High Court in London or a County Court near to where you live or trade.

A petition can be presented against you even if you are not present in England or Wales at that time, providing you normally live in, or have a recent residential or business connection with, England or Wales.

If you want to make yourself bankrupt you should contact your local Court. They can give you the name, address and telephone number of the nearest County Court that deals with bankruptcy.

The address and telephone number of your local County Court is listed under 'Courts' in the phone book, where you should look for ‘civil Courts - County Courts' and not ‘magistrates' Courts’. The Courts Service website at: www.courtservice.gov.uk has an index of County Courts that will show you the area where the County Court has jurisdiction. However, you will need to contact the Court to find out if it has jurisdiction to hear a bankruptcy case.

Call us on free phone 0800 074 6918 or fill in the contact form on the left hand side of this page.