The Means Test and Chapter 7 Eligibility
Talk to a Bankruptcy Lawyer
Enter Your Zip Code to Connect with a Lawyer Serving Your Area
Are you eligible to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy?
In 2005 Congress changed bankruptcy law to restrict who can file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. The result was the often-talked about means test. The means test determines if you can realistically pay back some of your debt through a Chapter 13 repayment plan. If you can (that is, if you flunk the means test), you cannot file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
In addition to the means test, there are other eligibility rules for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Here’s where you can find the answers to these and other bankruptcy eligibility questions.
-
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Eligibility & Requirements
Learn about the eligibility requirements for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
-
An overview of the means test, including the basic steps involved in taking the test.
-
When You Don't Have to Take the Means Test in Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
Some debtors do not have to take the means test in order to qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. -
What is Current Monthly Income for the Means Test?
Current monthly income (CMI) is an important part of the bankruptcy means test. Find out what it is. -
Can I File for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy If I Am Unemployed
If you are unemployed, you can still file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Find out how your employment status might affect your ability to pass the means test. -
Business Debt Can Qualify You for Chapter 7 Even With a High Income
If the majority of your debt is business debt, you don't have to take the means test. -
What to Do If You Fail the Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Means Test
Learn about your options if you do not pass the Chapter 7 bankruptcy means test on the first try. -
Expenses That Help You Pass the Bankruptcy Means Test
If you file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, certain expenses will help you pass the means test. -
Household Size and the Bankruptcy Means Test
The size of your household plays an important role in qualifying for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Learn how to calculate yours. -
Will My Mortgage Help Me Pass the Means Test?
If you are filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, having a mortgage may make it easier for you to pass the means test.
-
The Car Ownership Deduction on the Bankruptcy Means Test
If you incur expenses for owning or driving a car, you can use car operation and ownership deductions on the bankruptcy means test.
-
Marital Adjustment Deduction: When One Spouse Files Alone
If you are filing for bankruptcy without your spouse, learn the rules on how to count your spouse's income for purposes of the means test. -
Marital Adjustment: Types of Allowable Deductions for the Means Test
Here are some of the expenses you can deduct in the marital adjustment part of bankruptcy's means test.
-
I Just Got a Well-Paying Job. Can I Pass the Bankruptcy Means Test?
If you recently got a high-paying job, it may affect your ability to qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Learn why. -
Can I Deduct Retirement Contributions on the Bankruptcy Means Test?
You can deduct mandatory, but not voluntary, retirement contributions on the bankruptcy means test.
