Massachusetts Bankruptcy Records are part of the broader set of publicly accessible Massachusetts court records that detail financial proceedings involving individuals or businesses. These records help the public, legal professionals, and researchers understand the status, outcomes, and key events in bankruptcy cases filed within the state.
Managed by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Massachusetts, these records are available under public access rights granted by federal law, including Bankruptcy Code §107. While the information is open to the public, some personal and financial details may be redacted to protect privacy. This page offers general information only and does not serve as legal advice.
What Are Bankruptcy Records?
Massachusetts court records include many types of legal documents, and bankruptcy records are a key part of them. These records show the full history of a bankruptcy case filed in the state. Whether you’re checking your own case status, researching public records, or looking into a business’s financial history, knowing what’s in a bankruptcy file can help you find clear, useful answers.
A bankruptcy record includes details about why the case was filed, what type of bankruptcy was used, and how the court resolved it. This information is useful for landlords, lenders, background screeners, researchers, or anyone reviewing a person’s or business’s financial behavior.
Overview of Bankruptcy Filing Types
There are three common types of bankruptcy filings found in Massachusetts court records:
Chapter 7: Liquidation
This is the most widely filed form of bankruptcy. In Chapter 7, a person or business gives up non-exempt assets, which are then sold to repay creditors. Most unsecured debts—like credit card bills or medical debt—are discharged. In Massachusetts, the average Chapter 7 case takes about four to six months and often results in full debt cancellation for qualifying filers.
Chapter 7 is available to individuals and businesses, but eligibility depends on passing a “means test,” which checks income and expenses. As of 2025, individuals must earn less than the state median income (currently around $88,000 for a household of four) or prove that they cannot afford payments under a repayment plan.
Chapter 11: Business Reorganization
Chapter 11 is mainly used by businesses that want to keep operating while restructuring their debts. It’s a more complex and longer process but allows companies to stay open. Chapter 11 filings in Massachusetts are more common among retail chains, restaurants, and small-to-medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that need time to recover.
The business creates a reorganization plan to repay creditors over time, usually three to five years. While large corporations often use this chapter, individuals with high debt may also qualify.
Chapter 13: Personal Repayment Plans
Chapter 13 is designed for individuals with regular income who want to pay back part or all of their debts over time—usually three to five years. Instead of selling property, filers keep their assets and follow a structured payment plan approved by the court.
In Massachusetts, Chapter 13 plans typically last 60 months for those earning above the state median income. Filers must show the ability to make monthly payments to a trustee, who then distributes the funds to creditors.
Contents of a Bankruptcy File
Each bankruptcy case stored in Massachusetts court records includes multiple key documents. These files provide a complete picture of the bankruptcy process from start to finish.
Case Petition
This is the first document filed by the debtor. It includes the basic case details: name, address, type of bankruptcy, and filing date. The petition sets the legal process in motion and triggers an automatic stay, which stops creditors from collecting during the case.
Schedules of Assets and Debts
These schedules list everything the filer owns (assets) and owes (debts). Assets can include homes, vehicles, bank accounts, and valuables. Debts cover credit cards, loans, tax obligations, and medical bills. The schedules also state which debts the filer plans to repay and which may be discharged.
These details help creditors and the court understand the filer’s full financial position. In Massachusetts, all bankruptcy schedules must be submitted within 14 days of the initial filing.
Trustee Reports
The court appoints a trustee to oversee the case. The trustee’s report covers the filer’s assets, any recovered property, and how money is being distributed. In Chapter 7 cases, this report also confirms whether the case is considered a “no asset” case—meaning there is nothing to distribute to creditors.
These reports are especially helpful for creditors and legal professionals reviewing the case outcome or planning further legal steps.
Meeting of Creditors (341 Meeting)
This required meeting lets creditors ask the filer questions about the case. It is usually held about 20 to 40 days after the petition is filed. The meeting is recorded but not held in court—it usually takes place at a federal building or virtually, depending on the case location.
Filing a bankruptcy case in Massachusetts requires attending this meeting unless you have a valid exemption.
Discharge or Dismissal Notices
At the end of the case, the court issues either a discharge or dismissal:
- Discharge: The filer is released from personal liability for specific debts. Creditors cannot continue to collect on these debts. A discharge is common in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases.
- Dismissal: The case is closed without debt relief. This happens if the filer doesn’t meet requirements, fails to attend hearings, or breaks court rules.
These final documents show the official end of the case. You’ll find them included in any full record search within Massachusetts court databases or PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records).
How to Find Bankruptcy Records in Massachusetts
Bankruptcy records in Massachusetts are considered public information and can be accessed in several official ways. Whether you’re trying to review a personal filing, verify someone else’s bankruptcy status, or obtain certified documentation for legal or financial reasons, you have a few reliable options. These include using the federal PACER system online, visiting the Clerk’s Office in person, or sending a written request by mail. Each method has different advantages depending on your location, access to the internet, urgency, and whether you need certified copies.
Use the PACER System
The Public Access to Court Electronic Records, or PACER, is an online database managed by the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts. It provides access to bankruptcy records filed in any federal court, including those in Massachusetts. To begin, you’ll need to register for a free account at https://pacer.uscourts.gov. Once your account is active, you can log in and search by the debtor’s full name, a specific case number, filing date range, or court location. This flexibility makes it easy to locate the exact records you need. PACER charges $0.10 per page you view, though each document is capped at $3.00, and if your total use stays under $30 per quarter, you won’t be billed at all. This makes it a cost-effective solution for users who need quick access to case information or digital copies of court filings without visiting a courthouse.
Visit the Clerk of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court
If you prefer to get help in person or need certified or printed copies of bankruptcy records, visiting a local U.S. Bankruptcy Court Clerk’s Office can be the best choice. Massachusetts is divided into three main divisions: Boston (Eastern), Worcester (Central), and Springfield (Western). The right location depends on the filer’s home address or the region where the case was filed. Before heading out, it’s helpful to call the court or check its website to confirm you’re going to the correct office. Once there, bring a government-issued photo ID and the case number if you have it. If you don’t have the number, providing the debtor’s full name and the estimated year of filing can help staff locate the file. Certified copies can be requested using a simple form, and you’ll typically receive them on the same day or within a few business days. The cost is $0.50 per page and $12 per document for certification. Offices usually accept payment via credit card, cash, or money order, and operate Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, excluding federal holidays.
Request by Mail
For those unable to travel or who prefer handling everything by post, requesting bankruptcy records by mail is another dependable option. To do this, you’ll need to write a letter to the appropriate Clerk’s Office. In your request, include your name and address, the name of the person or business that filed for bankruptcy, the case number if known, and a description of the documents you need—such as discharge papers, a full docket sheet, or certified copies. Also include a contact number or email in case court staff need to reach you for clarification. Along with your request letter, send a check or money order made payable to “Clerk, U.S. Bankruptcy Court” that covers the applicable fees. Don’t forget to enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope so the court can return your documents. Most requests are processed within 5 to 10 business days. The current fees are $0.50 per page for copies and $12 for each certified document. If you have questions about how to format your request or how much to send, you can call the Clerk’s Office in Boston, Worcester, or Springfield directly for clarification.
Massachusetts Bankruptcy Court Locations
If you’re looking for Massachusetts court records related to bankruptcy cases, understanding which division serves your county is a key step. The U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Massachusetts is split into three main divisions—Boston, Worcester, and Springfield—each covering specific counties and offering different access options. Below, you’ll find essential contact details, counties covered, and how to access records either in person or online.
Boston Division (Eastern Massachusetts)
Address:
U.S. Bankruptcy Court
John W. McCormack Post Office & Courthouse
5 Post Office Square, Suite 1150
Boston, MA 02109
Phone: (617) 748-5300
Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
The Boston Division covers bankruptcy cases filed in the eastern counties, including:
- Suffolk
- Essex
- Norfolk
- Middlesex
- Plymouth
- Barnstable
- Bristol
- Dukes
- Nantucket
This location is the most active in terms of volume, serving the highly populated Greater Boston area. If your case was filed in one of these counties, this is the place to check.
For in-person assistance, you can visit the clerk’s office during business hours. Make sure to bring a valid photo ID. The staff can help with general questions, but can’t give legal advice.
Worcester Division (Central Massachusetts)
Address:
Donohue Federal Building
595 Main Street, Room 311
Worcester, MA 01608
Phone: (508) 770-8900
Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Counties covered by the Worcester Division include:
- Worcester
- Franklin
- Norfolk (parts overlapping with Boston division)
This division serves Central Massachusetts residents. If your bankruptcy case was filed here, it’s best to reach out by phone before visiting. This can help confirm whether the documents you’re seeking are held locally or at the main archive.
Local access offers convenience for residents of Worcester and nearby areas who don’t want to travel into Boston.
Springfield Division (Western Massachusetts)
Address:
U.S. Bankruptcy Court
300 State Street
Springfield, MA 01105
Phone: (413) 785-6900
Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
The Springfield Division is responsible for cases in:
- Berkshire
- Hampden
- Hampshire
For residents in Western Massachusetts, this court handles all filings and records related to bankruptcy. You can request copies of court documents, including schedules, motions, and discharge papers, directly at the clerk’s office.
Bring any related case number or party name to help staff locate your file faster.
Online Docket Access vs. In-Person Records
When searching for Massachusetts court records related to bankruptcy, you have two main options:
Online Access
Records can be viewed through the Public Access to Court Electronic Records (PACER) system.
- Website: https://pacer.uscourts.gov
- Registration required (credit card needed)
- Cost: $0.10 per page (with a $3.00 max per document)
- Free if your total quarterly usage is under $30
Online access is convenient and covers all Massachusetts bankruptcy divisions. You can search by case number, party name, or attorney. It’s a useful tool for tracking case progress, deadlines, or decisions.
In-Person Access
All three divisions allow public access to bankruptcy court records through on-site computer terminals.
- No registration or fees
- Ideal if you’re nearby or want certified paper copies
- Staff are available to assist with basic searches
Keep in mind that older cases may be archived. If so, they might take a few days to retrieve.
The Role of the Bankruptcy Trustee
Bankruptcy cases recorded in Massachusetts Court Records often mention a key figure: the bankruptcy trustee. This person plays a major role in how the case moves forward, particularly when it involves managing property, debts, and distributions. If you’re reviewing court records or involved in a case, understanding the trustee’s function helps clarify what’s going on.
Who Is the Trustee?
The trustee is a court-appointed person responsible for overseeing the bankruptcy process. Their job is to manage the debtor’s non-exempt assets and distribute funds fairly to creditors. They do not represent the debtor or the creditors—they follow federal and local bankruptcy rules to ensure transparency and fairness.
In Chapter 7 cases, the trustee may sell non-exempt assets. In Chapter 13 cases, the trustee handles monthly payments from the debtor and forwards the money to creditors. The trustee also checks for signs of fraud or dishonesty. Their decisions are recorded in the case file and affect how the case progresses.
Trustee Filings in the Record
Court records in Massachusetts bankruptcy cases often contain several trustee filings. These documents offer insights into the financial picture of the case and are available through official channels.
Inventory Lists
One of the first documents you may see is an inventory or schedule of assets. This list outlines what the debtor owns, from real estate and vehicles to savings accounts and personal belongings. The trustee reviews and may update these records, which are kept in the public file unless sealed for legal reasons.
Distribution Reports
Once funds are available, the trustee files reports showing how money will be or has been distributed to creditors. This includes how much each creditor is set to receive and any deductions for trustee fees. These filings can be valuable for creditors checking their claim status or for anyone reviewing the case’s resolution.
Objections or Fraud Investigations
If the trustee suspects inaccurate information or fraud, they may file an objection. These filings can delay or change the outcome of a case. Common objections include undervalued assets, missing disclosures, or unusual financial transactions before filing. All these actions are logged in Massachusetts Court Records and can be accessed by parties involved in the case.
What You Can and Cannot Access in Massachusetts Court Records
When reviewing Massachusetts Court Records, it helps to know what you’re allowed to view and what remains restricted. Whether you’re checking on a past case, looking for motion details, or verifying hearing schedules, this section breaks it down clearly. Access rules vary based on privacy concerns, legal restrictions, and the type of case involved.
Public Records Available
Massachusetts courts offer public access to many types of court documents and case data. These records can often be found through court clerks’ offices or online court portals, depending on the case type and court level.
Here are some types of records you can access:
- Filings, Motions, Orders, and Schedules
Most civil and criminal cases will include these types of records. For example, if someone files a motion to dismiss a charge or requests a summary judgment, these documents are usually part of the public file. Case schedules, like hearing or trial dates, are also included. - Docket Summary
Civil Court Records often include a docket, which is a record of everything that has happened in a case. It usually shows who’s involved, what has been filed, and the dates for court events. These records are commonly available unless the case is sealed. For instance, a typical civil docket within Civil Court Records may show complaint dates, motion hearings, and judgment dates. - Court Decisions and Judgments
Final rulings are generally open to the public. This includes decisions from the Massachusetts Superior Court, District Courts, and even the Appeals Court. Users may review decisions to better understand how a court ruled and why.
Accessing these public records can usually be done online at MassCourts or by visiting the local courthouse. Be aware that some documents might have a small fee for copies, often around $0.50 per page or a set document fee of $2 to $20, depending on the court.
Restricted or Sealed Records
Some court documents are hidden from public view for privacy or legal protection. These include sensitive or personally identifiable information, especially in certain family or criminal matters.
You cannot access:
- Tax Returns or Private Financial Records
These are protected even when filed during legal proceedings like divorces or business disputes. The courts treat this financial information as private, and it is not available for public download or viewing. - Social Security Numbers and Bank Details
If a court file includes personal financial identifiers, they’re either redacted or sealed entirely. This helps prevent identity theft and misuse of personal data. - Sealed Motions and Juvenile References
In many criminal and family law cases, certain motions—especially those relating to children or victims—are sealed. Juvenile court records are automatically sealed by law, meaning you won’t see anything from those proceedings unless you’re directly involved and authorized.
Records involving sexual offenses or mental health evaluations are also usually kept confidential.
Courts use sealing orders or redactions to keep this information out of public records. Even if the rest of a case is accessible, these sections will be blocked out or labeled “sealed.”
How to Request Redactions
Sometimes, a public document includes information that should not be shared—like an address, medical detail, or ID number. In these cases, you can ask the court to hide or remove sensitive data through a redaction request.
Here’s how that process works in Massachusetts:
- Identify the Information
Find exactly what part of the document contains sensitive data. This could be a social security number, birth date, or confidential witness address. - Fill Out a Redaction Motion
You can file a motion with the court asking to redact specific details. You’ll need to explain what information should be removed and why. Some courts have specific forms—check with the clerk’s office or their website. - File and Wait for Review
Submit your motion to the same court where the case is active. A judge will review your request, and if it meets legal standards, they’ll approve the redaction. Expect processing to take several days to a few weeks, depending on the court’s caseload.
Keep in mind: redaction requests must be specific and valid. The court won’t redact information just because it’s uncomfortable or inconvenient.
Fees and Timeframes for Accessing Massachusetts Court Records
Accessing Massachusetts Court Records involves certain costs and wait times, depending on how the request is made. Whether you’re obtaining copies online through PACER or visiting a courthouse in person, it helps to understand the expected fees and processing times before getting started.
PACER Costs
For federal court records—including bankruptcy, appellate, and district court documents—PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records) is the standard online portal. While PACER accounts are free to create, charges apply based on usage.
- Per-Page Fee: $0.10 per page
- Document Cap: Charges are limited to $3.00 per document, even if it exceeds 30 pages
- Quarterly Waiver: If your total usage stays under $30 in a quarter, you won’t be charged at all
- Audio Files: $2.40 per file if available
PACER bills users quarterly, and many people never pay anything unless they access multiple files or lengthy records. This makes it a reasonable option for light users.
In-Person Copy Fees
For those visiting Massachusetts courthouses directly, fees and processing times depend on the type and volume of records requested. Local clerk offices handle most civil, criminal, probate, and small claims records.
- Photocopy Cost: Typically ranges from $0.50 to $1.00 per page
- Certification Fee: Expect to pay an extra $2 to $5 for certified copies
- Search Fee: Some locations charge a small fee for name or case searches
- Processing Time: Varies between 1 to 7 business days, depending on the court’s workload and your request type
Tip: If you need certified copies for legal or immigration purposes, allow extra time for processing and bring identification.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Understanding how to access Massachusetts court records, especially for bankruptcy, can save time and effort. These common questions and answers are designed to help users find reliable information quickly.
Are bankruptcy filings public in Massachusetts?
Yes, bankruptcy filings are public records in Massachusetts unless sealed by a court. They usually include the debtor’s name, filing date, case number, and type of bankruptcy. You can access them online through PACER or visit the local bankruptcy court in person for viewing.
How do I find bankruptcy cases filed in Boston?
You can search Boston bankruptcy cases using PACER by name, case number, or filing date. If you prefer visiting, the Boston Bankruptcy Court at 5 Post Office Square provides public access terminals for free case searches. Staff can assist with technical questions but not legal advice.
Is PACER free to use?
PACER charges $0.10 per page, with a $3.00 maximum per document. However, if your total charges stay under $30 in a quarter, the fees are waived. For free access, you can use court computers available at the local courthouse.
Can I get copies of a Chapter 7 discharge?
Yes, you can get a Chapter 7 discharge document through PACER or directly from the court. Digital copies cost $0.10 per page, while printed copies cost $0.50 per page. Certified copies from the court cost an extra $11 per document if needed.
What information is redacted in bankruptcy filings?
Bankruptcy filings hide sensitive information to protect privacy. Only partial Social Security numbers, account numbers, and birth years are shown. Names of minor children are shortened to initials, and some addresses may also be partially hidden as required by federal rules.