How to Prepare for the Official Receiver Interview

Within a week or so of your bankruptcy order, an Official Receiver (OR) will contact you to arrange a phone interview. The aim is for them to understand your assets, debts, income, expenses and trading history.

What to prepare

• Photo ID and proof of address.
• Bank statements covering 12 months for all accounts you hold.
• Pay slips or benefit letters.
• Your full creditor schedule — names, account references, balances.
• Asset list with current values (car, savings, valuables).

During the interview

• Be honest, even about what embarrasses you. The OR detects undeclared assets or income, and hiding them can lead to Bankruptcy Restrictions Orders or even prosecution.
• Ask if anything is unclear — the OR's job is to administer, not to punish.
• Take notes of agreed actions and deadlines.
• Tell the OR if you are in paid work and whether the IPA / IPO route might apply.

Your partner

If you live separately from your partner, only your finances are reviewed. Your partner's credit file is separate unless you have joint borrowing.