Can I add a debt to my bankruptcy?

When applying for bankruptcy, you must include all debts that you owe. If you forgot to include any debts, notify your trustee as soon as you become aware.

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Can I add a debt I forgot to include?

When you apply for bankruptcy, you should receive a letter from us with all your listed creditors (who you owe money to) and amounts.

Creditors can also add debts to your bankruptcy. If you need a copy of this letter, or a current list of creditors, contact your trustee to request it.

If you incurred a debt before you went bankrupt and forgot to include it, you must inform your trustee, who will then notify your creditor.

Normally creditors are not able to demand payment for most debts included in your bankruptcy. Find out what to do if a creditor is still contacting you about a debt.

If you incur a debt after your bankruptcy starts, you cannot add this debt to your bankruptcy and will still have to pay.

Debt help

If you need help managing your money you can find information at AFSA's debt help, including contact details for the National Debt Helpline (NDH).

NDH financial counsellors offer free, independent and confidential services to help you get back on track. The NDH website also has step-by-step guides and useful information on how to deal with specific types of debts.

Can I update a debt?

Contact your trustee to update a debt you listed in your bankruptcy. For example, you weren't sure of the exact amount of debt, or another organisation has purchased the debt.

Inform your trustee

If your bankruptcy is administered by a registered trustee, contact your trustee.

If your trustee is the Official Trustee (AFSA) notify us using the below form:

Add a debt to my bankruptcy