What Is A Bankruptcy Creditor Matrix?

A creditor matrix is one of the most important forms in the bankruptcy process. So what is the creditor matrix, and what can you do to make sure you do right?

When you file for bankruptcy, you are required to prepare a list of all your creditors and their mailing addresses. This list is called the creditor matrix. It is your responsibility to make sure all your creditors are listed and that the information is correct.

Each bankruptcy court has its own creditor-matrix instructions. In Washington, the required format depends on the district and, in the Eastern District, whether you file on paper or electronically.

Eastern District paper filings

• Use one left-aligned column, no more than four lines per creditor, and no more than 34 characters per line.
• Leave three lines between creditor entries. Alphabetizing is not required; list each creditor once and do not include account numbers.

Sources: Eastern District paper matrix instructions.

Eastern District electronic filings

The court’s ECF guide permits up to 50 characters in the name line and 40 characters in each address line, with no more than five lines for the entire name and address. List each creditor once. Sources: Eastern District ECF style guide, p. 3.

Western District filings

The court’s master mailing list guide permits a name of up to 50 characters and an address of up to five lines, with 40 characters per address line. Use a single left-aligned column, single spacing, and at least one blank line between creditors. When uploading the creditor list through CM/ECF, use a text file (.txt); the guide also describes entering creditors individually. Sources: Western District master mailing list requirements.

These are selected requirements, not a complete filing checklist. Follow the court’s current instructions for your district and filing method.

Over the past 34 years, the Law Offices of Christopher A. Benson has helped over 2,300 of Washington clients take control of their financial situation. We can review whether bankruptcy may help stop your garnishment and address your debts through a repayment plan. Sources: 11 U.S.C. § 362(a)–(d); U.S. Courts: Chapter 13 bankruptcy. If money has already been garnished, recovery may be possible in some cases, depending on the timing of the transfers, applicable exemptions and other legal requirements. A refund is not automatic or guaranteed. Sources: 11 U.S.C. § 547(b)–(c), (e)–(g); 11 U.S.C. § 522(g)–(i); 11 U.S.C. § 550(a). But you have to act quickly–call (253) 815-6940 for your free consultation, or email us today. Evening and weekend appointments available.