If the federal government shuts down this Friday, you will will still be able to file for bankruptcy. The federal court system, which includes bankruptcy courts, has a reserve of non-apportioned funds to continue operating even if Congress fails to fund the budget.
Although nonessential court personnel might be furloughed, judges, clerks, and other essential workers will remain on the job. Additionally, the Court’s electronic filing system, which allows bankruptcy attorneys like me to file chapter 7 and chapter 13 bankruptcy petitions and other court documents 24 hours a day, will remain online.