I am in default for student loans (obviously) and the amount they say that I must pay is way out of my range; however, when I used the automated system, I was able to receive a financial statement form.

The form asks for proof of expenses.

What expenses (above and beyond the obvious). For example, I don't keep a running tally of receipts for groceries, gas or car maintenance; matter of fact we usually pay groceries with cash.

I'm nearly done filling out the form and supplying the paperwork but I don't want it to get rejected because I didn't supply proper documentation.

Also, they request two recent check stubs along with tax forms. I lost my most recent check stub (well actually it got ruined when I spilled coffee all over it), but I do have my W2. Would that be enough?

Anyone worked with them before?

Under any other circumstances I'd never, ever recommend giving that much data to a CA. However, I'm not sure what other options you have--which is not to say they're not out there.

If they don't ask for specific categories then I'd definitely include groceries, medical expenses, insurance, etc. Put everything in there. If it's an expense it's relevant. These are averages. Make sure the total amount doesn't exceed your monthly income or they'll call foul. Having said that, living is expensive and I wouldn't make the mistake of forgetting a category and it appearing that you've got an extra $1000 a month sitting around idle. I'd also work with figures after all taxes have been taken out.

I would resist giving them anything like a W-2, tax forms (not available in both cases) or even a paystub. They're looking for sources of assets to attach. Even if they don't use this info it could work its way out there. Remember, CAs will hire ex-cons. Give them as little as possible. If they're "demanding" more then you need to do more research about what, if anything, you're required to submit to document your expenses. Speaking of such, I'd be more inclined to forwared documentation on expenses than on income or assets.

So, do I fudge numbers then to make things look better?

We are DEFINITELY over-extended right now and the amounts as I submitted them have us coming in $100 over what we make. But, that's the way it is. That's why we play the "pay a little on this bill game" and have so many accounts that are past due (utilities and such). I don't want to be dishonest, but I want to show them that by adding the additional cost of their payment that we will be overextended.

OK. If you are using credit to cover your current budgetary shortfalls then I would say just that. We don't even make enough to cover our recurring monthly expenses. Period. Were I you I would address/broach that issue before they have a chance to object.

No, I wouldn't encourage you to fudge anything. In areas where you aren't certain you may consider being generous on the figures.