[header] How to know when to file bankruptcy [title] Gather all your bills. [step] If you're contemplating filing for bankruptcy, you may feel that your financial situation is spiraling out of control. You may have neglected opening or looking at bills you receive. 
However, you need to check them now so you can have an accurate understanding of what you owe. [substeps] You'll need to know the status of all of your accounts, including how many days past due they are and the total amount you owe.