There are three initial considerations for Chapter 7 bankruptcy:
(1) Income:
To qualify for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy your gross income must be at or below the median household income for a household of your size. Sometimes this requirement is referred to as the “means test”. If your income is above the median household income for your state and household size, then with the help of a lawyer you might still be able to file a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, or else you will need to file a Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
(2) Type of Debt:
Certain debts to do not qualify for discharge in Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Credit card, medical, auto loan deficiency, and lease break debts are common debts that qualify for discharge in Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Debts that are not dischargeable in Chapter 7 bankruptcy include, restitution, certain tax debts, child support and student loans. You may need to file a Chapter 13 to pay these debts.
(3) Equity in Assets:
You are allowed to have some equity in assets if you file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. You can have certain amounts of money in your bank account or may be able to keep your car. If your equity in assets exceed certain thresholds, then you could be forced to give up that asset in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. To protect your property, you could file a Chapter 13 bankruptcy. You can keep all assets in Chapter 13 bankruptcy by paying back certain amounts of your debt back.
Call a lawyer:
There are several factors to consider when evaluating if you qualify for a Chapter 7. Your particular case might be complicated or time sensitive.
If you live in Oregon and have questions about bankruptcy, you can call our firm. Jessica Nomie specializes in Chapter 7 bankruptcy and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. We offer in person and virtual bankruptcy representation for individuals throughout the state of Oregon.
The information and materials provided in this article have been prepared for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice and do not constitute an attorney-client relationship between you and this law firm. If you believe you have a legal case or claim, you should contact an attorney promptly; strict time limitations may apply to your case or claim.
We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for relief under the Bankruptcy Code.