Anyone can apply to the court to make them bankrupt, including individuals, sole traders and members of a partnership. There are different procedures for companies and partnerships.

Only the court can make you bankrupt, and not all courts deal with bankruptcy cases. You can make yourself bankrupt by petitioning (applying to) the court. Your creditors can usually petition the court if you owe them at least £750. You are bankrupt when the court issues a bankruptcy order against you.

There are fees and procedures you have to follow - these are different in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

• Bankruptcy - how to apply