How much does bankruptcy cost?

Filing fees are $338 for Chapter 7 and $313 for Chapter 13. Attorney fees typically range from $1,000 to $3,500 depending on the chapter and complexity. Fee waivers and installment payments are available for those who qualify.

Can I file bankruptcy if I can't afford an attorney?

Yes. You can file pro se (without an attorney), apply for a fee waiver to eliminate the filing fee, or pay the filing fee in installments. Some legal aid organizations also provide free bankruptcy assistance.

Are there hidden fees in bankruptcy?

The main costs are the filing fee, attorney fee, and credit counseling courses (about $20-50 total). Some attorneys charge extra for adversary proceedings or plan modifications, so ask for a complete fee breakdown upfront.

What is the cheapest way to file bankruptcy?

The cheapest option is filing pro se with a fee waiver, which costs nothing. If you hire an attorney, Chapter 7 is generally less expensive than Chapter 13. Always compare quotes from multiple attorneys.

Can I pay bankruptcy attorney fees in installments?

Most bankruptcy attorneys accept payment plans. In Chapter 13, attorney fees can even be paid through your repayment plan. In Chapter 7, many attorneys require full payment before filing, but installment arrangements are common.

Bankruptcy Attorney Malpractice by District

Select your federal bankruptcy district:

Central District of California
Southern District of Florida
Northern District of Illinois
Eastern District of New York
Northern District of Georgia
Western District of Tennessee
Middle District of Florida
Southern District of New York
Northern District of Ohio
Western District of Missouri

Check your eligibility:

Free Discharge Screener

Stay updated on new datasets and research findings

No spam. No marketing. Just data.

Related Guides

What is a Bankruptcy Mill?
Open Bankruptcy Project
Attorney Monitoring Dashboard
Kansas City Bankruptcy Mill Report