Applying to become bankrupt
After you apply
You’ll usually get an email or letter from the adjudicator within 28 days of submitting your application to say if you’ve been made bankrupt.
This can take longer if the adjudicator needs to ask more questions about your application.
They’ll then issue a bankruptcy order.
After you get your bankruptcy order
You’ll get a letter from the official receiver within 2 weeks of getting your bankruptcy order. The official receiver is an officer of the court who manages your bankruptcy.
You’ll also get an information pack that explains what you need to know and what you must do.
You might be asked to:
- fill in a questionnaire
- attend an interview with the official receiver
- give the official receiver more information about your debts, creditors, assets and income
If you’re asked to attend an interview
The interview can be in person or over the phone. The official receiver will:
- check the information they have about your debts and assets
- ask for more details, for example about your pension or savings
- ask how and why you became bankrupt
- answer any questions you have about the bankruptcy process
Your release (‘discharge’) from bankruptcy may be delayed if you do not provide the information you’re asked for.