What is a bankruptcy case number?
When a bankruptcy case is filed, the clerk’s office starts an electronic docket to record all activity in the case and assigns the bankruptcy case a unique case number (combination of letters and numbers).
Examples of a Case Number
Complete case number: 2:11-BK-12345-SK
2 = the division is was filed in
11 = the year it was filed
BK = bankruptcy
12345 = number assigned for that year’s sequence
SK = initials of the judge the case is assigned to
Shortened case number: 2:11-12345-SK
The shortened number contains only the division, the year the bankruptcy case was filed, the five digit number of the bankruptcy case , and the two initials for the judge assigned to the case.
Where can a client find their bankruptcy case number?
- Any and all correspondence from the court such as their bankruptcy hearing notice(also called the meeting of the creditors notice), or any other correspondence from the court
- Any letter the attorney sent the client after they filed their bankruptcy.
- Their file-stamped copies of their pleadings, such as their Voluntary Petition.
- Typically typed at the top of the pleadings that were sent to they client.
Why do we need the case number?
It is very important that these numbers are entered correctly in the Solid Start Financial (SSF) registration as the client’s case number must appear on their certificate of completion. If the number is wrong on the client’s certificate, it will not be accepted by the court and their case could be delayed or dismissed.
How old can a valid case number be?
Since most chapter 13 bankruptcies last five years it’s common to see case numbers that go back five years from the time the client may be taking SSF. However, in some cases the court may allow them to use an older case number.
If you notice a case number being used that is older than five years, it’s best to ask the client if this is their current case number or if they were assigned a new one.