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.

Disclaimer — BankruptcyByState.net Provides Informational Estimates Only

BankruptcyByState.net provides informational estimates only. Nothing on this site is legal advice, financial advice, or tax advice. We are not a law firm. We are not affiliated with any government agency. Always consult a licensed bankruptcy attorney before making any legal or financial decision.

Not Legal Advice

Using BankruptcyByState.net does not create an attorney-client relationship. All calculator results are estimates — not legal determinations and not binding on any bankruptcy court, trustee, or creditor. Every bankruptcy case depends on individual facts, local court practices, and applicable law that only a licensed attorney can fully evaluate. Do not file for bankruptcy — or decline to file — based solely on this site's calculator results without consulting a licensed bankruptcy attorney.

No Government Affiliation

BankruptcyByState.net is a private, independent website. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the United States Trustee Program, the Department of Justice, any federal bankruptcy court, the IRS, or any state government or court. Official government bankruptcy resources: uscourts.gov and justice.gov/ust.

Data Accuracy

We source data from the US Trustee Program's median income tables, IRS expense standards, and state statutes and update it regularly. However, we make no warranty that any figure is current, accurate, or complete. Bankruptcy laws, median income figures, and exemption amounts change frequently. Always verify against official sources and your attorney's review before relying on any figure for a filing decision.

Attorney Directory

Attorneys in our Find an Attorney directory are paid advertising placements. We verify state bar membership before activating listings but do not evaluate any attorney's competence, ethics, or fitness. Inclusion is not an endorsement. You should independently verify bar standing and interview any attorney before retaining them.

Limitation of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, BankruptcyByState.net disclaims all liability for any loss or damage arising from use of this site or reliance on any calculator result. Use of this site is at your own risk. See our full Terms of Use for the complete liability disclaimer.