The logo for the shield law group is a black and white logo with a shield on it.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

Chapter 7 is like hitting the "reset" button on your debts. You simply wipe out the debt and walk away, leaving them in history. Its just as easy as pushing a button.



A Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the best choice for people with low income or unemployed, or having large families but not enough to cover all the costs. It also works for small businesses that find themselves unprofitable and suffering losses month after month.

Benefits of Chapter 7


A hand is holding a coin with a dollar sign on it.

Debt Discharge

Chapter 7 bankruptcy allows you to discharge most of your unsecured debts, such as credit card debt, medical bills, and personal loans. This means you are no longer legally required to pay these debts, giving you a fresh financial start.

A black and white silhouette of a cloud with the sun shining through it.

Immediate Relief

Once you file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, an automatic stay goes into effect. This stops most creditors from pursuing collection actions against you, such as wage garnishments, foreclosure proceedings, and harassing phone calls.

A black and white icon of a house on a white background.

Asset Exemptions

Many personal assets are protected under Chapter 7 bankruptcy exemptions. This means you may be able to keep essential property like your home, car, and retirement accounts, depending on the laws in your state. This helps ensure you can maintain a basic standard of living while addressing your debts.

Am I Eligible?

why choose us

Criteria for Qualifying for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy


A hand is holding a coin with a dollar sign on it.

Income Level

Your income must be low enough to pass the means test. If your income is above the state median, you might not qualify for Chapter 7.

A black and white icon of a building with columns and a roof.

Previous Bankruptcy Discharge

If you have previously received a discharge in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy within the last eight years, you are not eligible to file again.

A black and white icon of a credit card on a white background.

Credit Counseling

You must complete a credit counseling course from an approved agency within 180 days before filing.

A black and white icon of a house on a white background.

Residency

You need to have lived in the state where you are filing for at least 91 of the last 180 days.

A computer monitor with a warning sign and a hat on it.

Fraudulent Activity

If you have committed bankruptcy fraud, such as transferring assets to avoid inclusion in the bankruptcy estate, you may be ineligible.

Income Level:


The Means Test


The means test is a crucial component in determining your eligibility for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy. It aims to prevent high-income earners from filing for Chapter 7 and instead steer them towards Chapter 13 Bankruptcy.

Compare Your Income to the Median

First, compare your average monthly income over the past six months to the median income for a household of your size in your state. If your income is below the median, you qualify for Chapter 7.

Calculate Disposable Income

If your income exceeds the state median, the means test requires a detailed calculation of your disposable income. Subtract certain allowed expenses, such as food, housing, and transportation, from your total income to determine your disposable income.

Determine Eligibility

If your disposable income is below a certain threshold, you pass the means test and can file for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy. If it's above the threshold, you might need to consider Chapter 13 Bankruptcy, which involves a repayment plan.

Imagine the feeling of having zero debt.

Let's Talk.

Work with an experienced lawyer: Contact us today and let's discuss your situation.

Share by: