Eligibility for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
While the majority of people considering bankruptcy are eligible to file for Chapter 7, that's not true for everyone. Probably the most common reason that people cannot file for Chapter 7 is their inability to pass the bankruptcy means test. Because the means test is somewhat complicated, we have a separate topic page just on that issue. But there are eligibility criteria in addition to the means test. Below you will learn about other barriers to filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
Learn about Chapter 7 bankruptcy requirements, such as meeting income qualifications and other issues that could disqualify you from filing Chapter 7.
You don't have to be employed to file for bankruptcy. But being unemployed can affect the success of your bankruptcy if you file for Chapter 13.
If you are an undocumented immigrant, you can file for bankruptcy if you have a valid Social Security Number or ITIN.
If you file for bankruptcy too soon after receiving a previous bankruptcy discharge, you won’t receive another one. Learn how often you can file for bankruptcy and eliminate qualifying debts.
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