Chapter 7 and utilities

[r0cdyqh]

What is the name of your state? OH

Can filing chapter 7 stop shut-offs of utilities?

[Ladynred]

Yes, it should - at least temporarily.

[r0cdyqh]

Do I call the utility companies and notify them? What do I need to do? Thanks!

[Ladynred]

If you haven't filed yet, telling them you are going to won't stop them as the automatic stay doesn't go into effect until you actually file. You can file an emergency petition tomorrow, but you would have to have all the rest filed in 15 days or the case would be dismissed.

[r0cdyqh]

Thanks.

I'm actually filing on Tuesday. Once I do this do i just call them and tell them or do I need an actual case number?

[AttorneyOney]

Before you do anything else, I suggest reading section 366 of the Bankruptcy Code. Then do some legal research to find out whether, in your judicial district, a utility company has to obtain relief from the automatic stay in order to shut you off or whether, instead, they can just do it if you don't provide whatever they demand in the way of adequate assurance under 366(b). Only an Ohio bankruptcy lawyer is qualified to give you the answer to that question, and the result may well be different for different kinds of utility because it may depend on the state utility regulations.