What bills you pay will depend on your particular circumstances. Deciding on which bills to pay is one of the most important decisions that you will make. Creditors cannot be treated preferentially or unfairly. Nevertheless, in many Chapter 7 cases, the debtor is so short of funds that only necessities can be paid. The most basic necessities should be paid first, such as rent or mortgage, electricity, gas, water, food, and transportation expenses. Frequently, there is nothing left after these are paid. If there is, a case-by-case analysis of the remaining bills must be made.
In a Chapter 13 case, a more sophisticated analysis must be made to determine how payments made will fit into the proposed plan. Special attention should be paid to transfers to friends and relatives as these may be undone, and exempt assets may lose their exempt status if transferred to a relative or friend.