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Submitting a Bankruptcy Package Electronically (eSR)

This website was designed to assist with the electronic submission of a bankruptcy package when filing without the assistance of an attorney. It provides information that is needed if you are considering filing for bankruptcy by yourself or with your spouse. Do not use this package if you are preparing a bankruptcy petition on behalf of a non‑individual, such as a corporation, partnership or a limited liability company (LLC).

Please note that the electronic submission of a bankruptcy package is currently only available for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 cases, and is not available to attorneys or bankruptcy petition preparers.

IMPORTANT WARNING

 

 

 

 

Because bankruptcy can have serious long‑term financial and legal consequences, including loss of your property, you should hire a lawyer and carefully consider all of your options before you file. A lawyer can explain to you what may happen as a result of filing for bankruptcy. If you do decide to file for bankruptcy, a lawyer can help protect you, your family, your home and your possessions.
 

Although the law allows you to represent yourself in bankruptcy court, you should understand that many people find it extremely difficult to represent themselves successfully. The rules are very technical, and a misstep or inaction may affect your rights. If you file without a lawyer, you are still responsible for knowing and following all of the legal requirements.  You are urged to view on the court’s website the “Filing Without an Attorney” section for a Pro Se Guide, Pro Se Videos and Bankruptcy Basics to obtain a better understanding of the Bankruptcy process.
  Bankruptcy fraud is a serious crime; you could be fined and imprisoned if you commit fraud in your bankruptcy case. If you make a false statement, you could be fined up to $500,000 or imprisoned for up to 5 years or both. (18 USC sections 152 and 3571)

What is eSR?

eSR is an online tool to help individuals complete a Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy petition.  eSR is not available to attorneys or bankruptcy petition preparers and is not designed for business or corporate filings. 

Why use eSR?

  • There is no cost to use eSR.  However, you will pay the bankruptcy filing fee of $338.00 for Chapter 7 or $313.00 for Chapter 13.
  • eSR has a guided, step-by-step process that allows up to 45 days to complete the package for submission.
  • Your personal information is only accessible by you, using a unique login and password.
  • There is no software to download or purchase.

How do I use eSR?

  • Obtain credit counseling from a court-approved credit counseling agency.
  • Determine which chapter of the Bankruptcy Code you are eligible to file.
  • Collect all of your financial documents before you begin.
  • Create a user profile, unique login, and password.
  • Answer questions about your property, income and debts and submit.
  • Once completed, send an email to NCEBml_EmergencyFiling@nceb.uscourts.gov to notify the Court that a petition has been submitted for filing.
  • Complete and sign the eSR Declaration form and SSN statement that are emailed to you upon submission of your eSR package. Complete the DEBN form and local Schedule C forms that can be obtained from the link in the email.
  • Mail, hand deliver, or submit electronically (https://www.nceb.uscourts.gov/content/electronic-document-submission-system) to the Court the additional completed forms, eSR Declaration Form, SSN Statement Form, Debtor’s Electronic Notice Form, original copy of your Certification of Credit Counseling and a copy of your photo ID. Include the filing fee OR a completed Application to Pay in Installments OR a completed Application to Waive the chapter 7 Filing Fee (if applicable).
Note: If Official Form 101A ‑ Initial Statement About an Eviction Judgment Against You is part of this bankruptcy petition package, you are required to serve a copy of this form on your landlord when you complete the instructions for filing for bankruptcy.

Note: An automatic stay (injunction) is NOT in effect until a bankruptcy case number is issued by the bankruptcy court.

Note: The bankruptcy case will be opened if the email notification of submission of your eSR is sent between 8:30 am and 4:00 pm on business days only. If the eSR is submitted and the email notification sent outside of this time frame, the case will be processed on the next business day.

Note: eSR only allows a one‑time submission. Any schedules or statements not completed at the time the eSR package is submitted cannot be completed later using eSR. All subsequent pleadings and amendments to pleadings must be filed in paper form via mail or drop off at the Raleigh Clerk’s Office:
Century Station Federal Building, 300 Fayetteville Street, 4th Floor, Raleigh, NC 27601-1799.  Mailing Address: PO Box 791, Raleigh, NC 27602. 

 You may get started using eSR by clicking here.

https://ecf.nceb.uscourts.gov/n/esr/pages/registration.jsf

eSR Computer Requirements

    Internet connection
    Adobe Reader (version 8 or higher)
    Pop‑up blocker must be disabled
    Printer
    Browser requirements ‑ It is recommended that you use the latest version of Mozilla Firefox, Internet Explorer, Chrome or Safari.

eSR Help

    For technical assistance regarding eSR, please contact the Help Desk at 919-334-3850. Please note, the clerk's office is prohibited from giving legal advice.