The Bankruptcy Means Test
Although Chapter 7 is the most popular type of bankruptcy for consumers, not everyone is eligible to receive Chapter 7 relief. The biggest barrier to qualify for Chapter 7 relief was added to the bankruptcy code in 2005 -- this is the means test. The means test looks at your income and expenses and kicks you out of Chapter 7 if the numbers don't fit within certain guidelines.
(There are other qualification requirements for Chapter 7. Visit our Eligibility for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy topic area to learn about them.)
The Chapter 7 Means Test: Overview Articles
The Chapter 7 Means Test: Overview Articles
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The Bankruptcy Means Test: Are You Eligible for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?
Find out if you're eligible for Chapter 7 bankruptcy by learning about the Chapter 7 bankruptcy means test. We explain the calculation process you'll use to determine whether you'll qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
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Household Size and the Chapter 7 Means Test
Find out who is included in your household for purposes of the means test.
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Common Mistakes Made on the Bankruptcy Means Test
The means test helps you determines if you are eligible for Chapter 7 bankruptcy and the length of your plan in Chapter 13 bankruptcy. The lengthy form can be complicated to fill out. Find out some of the most common mistakes made when completing it, as well as if you have to fill it out at all.
Exceptions: When You Don't Have to Pass the Means Test
Exceptions: When You Don't Have to Pass the Means Test
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Consumer v. Non-Consumer Debts for the Bankruptcy Means Test
Find out if a debt is considered to be consumer or non-consumer (business) for purposes of the bankruptcy means test.
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Household Size and the Chapter 7 Means Test
Find out who is included in your household for purposes of the means test.
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Are Veterans Benefits Income Under the Chapter 7 Means Test?
Learn about the means test and veteran bankruptcies, including whether disabled veterans are exempt from the means test and whether veterans' benefits count as income for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
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Do I need to include my spouse's income on my bankruptcy petition although I'm filing without her?
If you file for bankruptcy without your spouse, you still must include your spouse's income on your bankruptcy forms.
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Is Social Security Income Counted in the Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Means Test?
Are Social Security and unemployment income counted in the bankruptcy means test?
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