The 341 Meeting, named after Section 341 of the Bankruptcy Code, is a mandatory hearing where the bankruptcy trustee and creditors (if they choose) can ask you questions about:

• Your financial situation

• The documents you filed

• Your assets, income, and debts

This meeting is also known as the "Meeting of Creditors," but in most cases, creditors do not attend.

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Who Attends the Meeting?

• You (the debtor) – attendance is mandatory

• Your attorney – if you have one, they’ll be there to support you

• The bankruptcy trustee – oversees your case and asks the questions

• Creditors – may attend, but usually do not in Chapter 7 cases

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Where Does the 341 Meeting Happen?

• It’s not held in court and there’s no judge present

• It’s usually in a conference room or conducted by phone or video (especially after COVID-19)

• You’ll receive a notice from the court with the date, time, and location or dial-in instructions

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How Long Does It Take?

Typically, the 341 Meeting lasts 5 to 10 minutes.
You may need to wait if there are several cases scheduled at the same time.

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What Will They Ask Me?

The trustee will ask you basic questions to verify your identity and confirm the accuracy of your bankruptcy petition. Common questions include:

• Did you review your bankruptcy paperwork before signing it?

• Are all your assets and debts listed?

• Have you transferred or sold any property recently?

• Do you expect to receive an inheritance or lawsuit settlement?

• Have you filed all required tax returns?

• Did you complete your credit counseling?

Your attorney will help prepare you for these questions so you’re not caught off guard.

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What Should I Bring?

You’ll need to bring:

• A valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license or passport)

• Your Social Security card (or a W-2 showing your full SSN)

• Any documents the trustee specifically requested

• A copy of your bankruptcy petition (optional but helpful)

If you're attending virtually, you may need to submit copies of your ID in advance and verify your identity over video.

 

What If I Miss the 341 Meeting?

Missing your 341 Meeting can delay your case—or even result in a dismissal. If you can’t attend for a legitimate reason (illness, emergency), notify your attorney and the trustee as soon as possible to request a reschedule.

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Will Creditors Be There?

Usually not. In most Chapter 7 cases, creditors don’t show up because:

• The trustee handles the investigation

• There are no significant assets at risk

However, if a creditor does attend, they can ask brief questions—often about potential fraud or the nature of the debt.

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What Happens After the 341 Meeting?

After the meeting:

• The trustee may request additional documents or clarification

• If no objections are raised, your case proceeds toward discharge

• In a Chapter 7, you may receive your discharge in about 60–90 days

• In a Chapter 13, the case moves forward with your repayment plan