Using PACER for Bankruptcy Case Updates

Today’s blog post focuses on using PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records), which is the federal court website, to look up any federal case, including the status of your bankruptcy filing. The video below explains the registration process, which is quick and simple.

By accessing PACER and creating your account, you will be able to obtain information on the federal courts, including the appellate and bankruptcy courts. If you are using it for your bankruptcy case, this could be quicker and more effective than reaching out to your lawyer.

PACER would be a good idea to use if you filed Chapter 13, since there are numerous filings that take place, whether by the bankruptcy trustee, creditors, or your attorney.

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Once registered, you can find your case information, whether by using your name or case number. It’s usually better to go by case number in case you have a common name.

PACER is free to a certain extent. While documents cost .10 per page, they max out how much they charge for one document. So even though your bankruptcy petition could be 50 pages, you will be capped at $3.00. It’s common for me to get bills saying there’s a zero balance due for that billing period.

I’ve had to contact the help desk in the past, and they have always been quick with their responses. The PACER Service Center phone number is (800) 676-6856. Their hours of operation are between the hours of 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. CT Monday through Friday. If you prefer email, pacer@psc.uscourts.gov.

Colleges and universities can purchase my bankruptcy law textbook directly from Routledge Publishing. For paralegals and students buying single copies, you can do so via Amazon Books. To access my YouTube channel, click this link.

Additional blog content is available below or by using the search bar at the top of this page:

• Bankruptcy
• Your Wallet

Please note that the information on this site does not constitute legal advice and should be considered for informational purposes only.

Updated on May 7, 2025.