Skip to main content
Bankruptcy
MI

Bankruptcy Exhibits for Michigan Courts

Michigan bankruptcy courts across the Eastern and Western Districts require careful attention to Michigan-specific exemptions under MCL 600.5451. Michigan does not allow the federal exemptions, so state exemptions must be used. This guide covers exhibit preparation for bankruptcy cases in Michigan.

CM/ECFPer Court order (typically 7-14 days)FRBP 4003, MCL 600.5451
Try It Free →Free Michigan Guide

Michigan Quick Reference

E-Filing SystemCM/ECF ↗
File Size Limit35 MB
Exchange DeadlinePer Court order (typically 7-14 days)
Primary RuleFRBP 4003, MCL 600.5451

Common Bankruptcy Exhibits in Michigan

Schedules A/B (property) and supporting documentation
Michigan homestead exemption documentation
Bank statements (6 months minimum)
Pay stubs (6 months) and employment verification
Tax returns (2-4 years)
Vehicle titles and valuations
Real property deeds and appraisals
Credit card and debt statements
Business records (Chapter 11)
Means test calculations
Pre-bankruptcy credit counseling certificate
Retirement account statements

Michigan Bankruptcy Tips

  • 1Michigan does not allow federal bankruptcy exemptions
  • 2Michigan homestead exemption is ~$44,000 (adjusted periodically)
  • 3Eastern District (Detroit) handles high volume cases
  • 4Western District (Grand Rapids) has specific local procedures
  • 5Michigan allows exemption for IRAs and retirement accounts
  • 6CM/ECF requires exhibits as attachments with descriptive names
  • 7Bates stamp all financial documents for 341 meeting

Common Bankruptcy Filing Mistakes in Michigan

Attempting to use federal exemptions (not allowed in Michigan)
Insufficient homestead documentation
Missing bank statements - trustees scrutinize gaps
Not including 6 months of pay stubs for means test
Failing to properly value Michigan real estate
Not redacting Social Security numbers per FRBP 9037

Bankruptcy Exhibits in Michigan: FAQ

Can I use federal bankruptcy exemptions in Michigan?

No, Michigan has opted out of federal exemptions under 11 U.S.C. § 522(b). You must use Michigan state exemptions under MCL 600.5451.

What are the CM/ECF requirements for Michigan bankruptcy exhibits?

CM/ECF requires PDF format, 35 MB maximum file size, and exhibits filed as attachments. Use descriptive filenames and ensure SSN redaction per FRBP 9037.

What exhibits are reviewed at a Michigan 341 meeting?

Trustees review: photo ID and Social Security card, bank statements for 6 months, pay stubs, tax returns, property valuations, vehicle titles. Have organized exhibits ready.

What is the Michigan homestead exemption amount?

Michigan homestead exemption is approximately $44,000 (adjusted periodically for inflation). Document ownership with deed and current property valuation.

How should I organize financial exhibits for Michigan bankruptcy?

Organize by category: Income (pay stubs, tax returns), Assets (bank statements, property docs), Liabilities (debt statements), Exemptions (homestead docs, retirement statements).

Related Resources

Bankruptcy Exhibits

General guide for all states

Michigan Requirements

All practice areas

Free PDF Guide

Michigan exhibit guide

Ready to Prepare Your Bankruptcy Exhibits?

ExhibitPrep creates professional, Michigan-compliant exhibits in minutes. Preview free, pay only when you're ready to download.

Try It Free →