What is the bankruptcy means test?

The bankruptcy means test determines whether you qualify to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy. It compares your average monthly income over the past 6 months to your state's median income. If you're below the median, you automatically qualify. If above, you must pass a second part examining disposable income.

How much debt do you need to file bankruptcy?

There is no minimum debt amount required to file bankruptcy. However, most bankruptcy attorneys recommend filing only when debt exceeds what you can realistically repay within 5 years, typically $10,000 or more.

How long does bankruptcy stay on your credit report?

Chapter 7 bankruptcy stays on your credit report for 10 years from the filing date. Chapter 13 bankruptcy stays for 7 years. Both affect your ability to get new credit, but the impact diminishes over time as you rebuild.

What states does this calculator support?

BankruptcyByState.net supports bankruptcy means test calculations for all 50 states using current federal and state-specific median income figures.

About BankruptcyByState.net — Free Bankruptcy Calculators for All 50 States

BankruptcyByState.net is a free online resource that helps individuals across all 50 US states understand their bankruptcy options before consulting an attorney. Our calculators use official 2026 data from the US Trustee Program, IRS expense standards, and state statutes to produce state-specific estimates for Chapter 7 eligibility, asset exemptions, Chapter 13 repayment, debt-to-income analysis, and post-bankruptcy credit recovery.

We are not a law firm. We are not affiliated with any government agency — including the US Trustee Program, Department of Justice, IRS, or any federal or state bankruptcy court. Our calculators produce informational estimates only. Before making any bankruptcy decision, always consult a licensed bankruptcy attorney in your state.

What We Offer

Chapter 7 Means Test Calculator — determine whether your income qualifies you for Chapter 7
Bankruptcy Exemption Calculator — find out which assets are protected under your state's law
Chapter 13 Payment Calculator — estimate your monthly repayment plan and plan duration
Debt-to-Income Calculator — assess financial stress and whether bankruptcy may be appropriate
Credit Recovery Timeline — understand post-bankruptcy credit milestones
Non-Exempt Asset Calculator — identify assets at risk in Chapter 7
Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13 Comparison — side-by-side analysis for your state

Our Data Sources

All calculator data is sourced from official government publications: the US Trustee Program's 2026 median income tables; IRS National and Local expense standards; and each state's current bankruptcy exemption statutes. We update these figures as the US Trustee Program releases new data throughout the year.

The ByState Network

BankruptcyByState.net is part of the ByState.net network of free, state-specific legal calculators. Sister sites include SupportByState.com (child support) and WorkersCompByState.com (workers' compensation). Our goal is to make basic legal information accessible to everyone, regardless of whether they can currently afford a professional consultation.