Bankruptcy Means Test Calculator
Check Chapter 7 eligibility by comparing your income to state median and estimate monthly Chapter 13 repayment.
Chapter 7 vs Chapter 13: Which Is Right for You?
Chapter 7 is faster (3–6 months) and eliminates most unsecured debts entirely. It is best when your income qualifies under the means test and you have few exempt assets to protect. Chapter 13 takes 3–5 years but lets you keep non-exempt assets, catch up on mortgage arrears, and discharge debts that Chapter 7 cannot (like some tax debts and HOA fees). It is also available if your income is too high for Chapter 7.
The Automatic Stay
Filing any bankruptcy chapter immediately triggers the automatic stay — a court order that stops virtually all collection actions. Wage garnishments stop, foreclosures pause, lawsuits halt, and calls from debt collectors must cease. The stay typically goes into effect the moment you file and gives you breathing room to work through the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
USLegalCalc.com provides estimates and document templates for informational purposes only. Results are not legal advice and vary by jurisdiction. Always consult a licensed attorney before making legal decisions.
Related Tools