Bankruptcy - Compare Costs & Get Free Quotes

Bankruptcy provides legal relief for individuals and businesses overwhelmed by debt they cannot reasonably repay. Chapter 7 bankruptcy eliminates most unsecured debts through liquidation, while Chapter 13 establishes a three-to-five-year repayment plan. Filing requires credit counseling, court fees, and typically an attorney, with total costs ranging from $1,500 to $4,000 depending on complexity.

Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13

Chapter 7 discharges qualifying debts within 3-6 months but requires passing a means test based on income. Chapter 13 allows you to keep assets while repaying debts through a court-approved plan over 36-60 months. Chapter 7 stays on your credit report for 10 years, while Chapter 13 remains for 7 years from the filing date.

Costs of Filing Bankruptcy

Federal court filing fees are $338 for Chapter 7 and $313 for Chapter 13. Attorney fees average $1,250-$2,500 for Chapter 7 and $2,500-$4,000 for Chapter 13. Mandatory credit counseling costs $10-$50, and debtor education courses run $20-$70. Fee waivers are available for filers below 150% of the poverty line.

What Debts Cannot Be Discharged

Student loans, child support, alimony, most tax debts, and court fines cannot be eliminated through bankruptcy. Recent luxury purchases over $800 within 90 days of filing are presumed non-dischargeable. Criminal restitution and debts from fraud or willful injury also survive bankruptcy proceedings regardless of chapter filed.

Average Bankruptcy Costs by State

Pricing for bankruptcy varies significantly by location. Below you can explore costs in your state or find local providers in your city.

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Frequently Asked Questions