lospachecos
New Member
Hoping you can shed some light on my situation. I filed my 2011 taxes, then filed chapter 7 in AZ a week later. I paid someone to prepare my documents for me, not an attorney. I received my federal refund and the next day I received my notification from the trustee telling me what documents I should provide and to turn over my federal refunds for 2011. I was in shock to read that I am responsible to do this and if I don't I can be prosecuted for fraud. Needless to say I am devastated! Seriously thought this was my money and I can do what I wish with it, not the case at all. I just attended my creditors meeting with the trustee and she states I have to pay it back to them or I will be sued. Is this true? And punishable by law for up to 5 years in prison??! What can I do? I don't have the money anymore and the time timeframe to hand it over is unreachable. Can I file to dismiss my case? If I do not pay my filing fee would that automatically dismiss my case? I'm in deep over my head and to think I read about Chapter 7 and never seen I would have to turn over my refund, or else I wouldn't waited until the end of the year, right? I am not trying to "fraud" anyone or the court. Thank you for advising me.