Montana Bankruptcy Calculators 2026 — Complete State Guide
Montana residents filing bankruptcy use both federal bankruptcy law (11 U.S.C.) and Montana-specific exemption statutes to determine eligibility, protect assets, and structure repayment plans. This page provides a complete reference for 2026 Montana bankruptcy rules, including median income thresholds for the Chapter 7 means test, asset exemption amounts, and links to all state-specific calculators.
For a single person in Montana, the 2026 Chapter 7 income limit is $59,028/year ($4,919/month). For a family of four: $94,476/year. Montana's homestead exemption protects $250,000 in home equity. Retirement accounts are fully protected in Montana, as they are in every state.
Montana 2026 Chapter 7 Median Income Thresholds
| Household Size | Annual Income Limit | Monthly Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $59,028 | $4,919 |
| 2 people | $74,868 | $6,239 |
| 3 people | $84,648 | $7,054 |
| 4 people | $94,476 | $7,873 |
| 5 people | $104,376 | $8,698 |
Montana 2026 Bankruptcy Exemptions
| Asset Type | Protected Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Homestead / Home Equity | $250,000 | Primary residence |
| Motor Vehicle | $4,000 | — |
| Retirement Accounts | 100% | All qualified plans |
| Wildcard | $400 | Any asset |
| Personal Property | $4,500 | Household goods, clothing |
| Wages | 75% of disposable earnings | Earned but unpaid wages |
Montana Bankruptcy Calculators
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Montana's homestead exemption compare to other states?
Montana's homestead exemption of $250,000 is among the highest fixed-dollar exemptions in the US. Homeowners with equity near or above the exemption limit should discuss Chapter 13 as an alternative with a bankruptcy attorney.
Who qualifies for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Montana?
To file Chapter 7 in Montana, you must pass the means test (income at or below $59,028/year for a single person, or complete the disposable income calculation if above), not have had a Chapter 7 discharge within the past 8 years or a Chapter 13 discharge within the past 6 years, not have had a bankruptcy case dismissed within the past 180 days for cause (fraud, willful failure to follow court orders), and complete a credit counseling course from an approved provider within 180 days before filing.
What is the typical cost to file bankruptcy in Montana?
The filing fee for Chapter 7 in Montana is $338 (payable to the bankruptcy court) and for Chapter 13 is $313. Attorney fees vary significantly: Chapter 7 attorney fees in Montana typically range from $1,000 to $2,500 depending on case complexity, geographic market, and attorney experience. Chapter 13 attorney fees are subject to local court fee guidelines and are typically $3,000 to $5,000, paid through the plan over time rather than upfront. Fee waivers are available for Chapter 7 filers with income below 150% of the federal poverty line.