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How Much Is It to File Bankruptcy? Full Cost Breakdown
How Much Is It to File Bankruptcy: Fees You Should Expect How much is it to file bankruptcy? That’s one
June 19, 2025
How Much Is It to File Bankruptcy? Full Cost Breakdown
How Much Is It to File Bankruptcy: Fees You Should Expect
How much is it to file bankruptcy? That’s one of the first and most important questions to ask when considering a financial fresh start. While bankruptcy offers powerful debt relief, it isn’t free. From court filing fees to mandatory courses and possible attorney expenses, there are several costs you should prepare for.
In this article, we’ll break down the real cost of filing Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy so you can plan your path to financial recovery.
Understanding the Base Filing Fees
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Filing Fee
The standard court filing fee for Chapter 7 bankruptcy is $338. This fee includes:
- $245 for the filing
- $78 administrative fee
- $15 trustee surcharge
You must pay this fee to officially file your petition. If you can’t afford it, you can:
- Request to pay in installments (up to four payments)
- Apply for a fee waiver (available if your income is under 150% of the federal poverty line)
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Filing Fee
Chapter 13 costs $313 to file, slightly lower than Chapter 7. However, because Chapter 13 includes a 3- to 5-year repayment plan, the total cost is often higher in the long run due to ongoing court monitoring and legal assistance.
How Much Are the Required Courses?
Everyone who files for bankruptcy must complete two court-approved financial courses:
1. Credit Counseling Course (Pre-Filing)
- Must be completed within 180 days before filing
- Usually costs $10 to $50
- The required certificate must be submitted with your petition
2. Debtor Education Course (Post-Filing)
- Taken after your case is filed
- Usually costs $10 to $50
- Required to receive a discharge of your debts
Many providers offer low-cost or even free options based on income.
What About Attorney Fees?
While you can file bankruptcy without a lawyer, most filers—especially in Chapter 13—choose to hire legal help.
Chapter 7 Attorney Fees
- Range between $1,000 and $2,500
- Varies by case complexity and location
- Covers form preparation, representation, and communication with the court and trustee
Chapter 13 Attorney Fees
- Often range from $3,000 to $5,000
- It can usually be rolled into your repayment plan, so you don’t pay everything upfront
Hiring an attorney is optional but highly recommended for complex cases.
Additional Optional Costs to Consider
Besides the required fees, here are other possible expenses when figuring out how much is it to file bankruptcy:
- Credit reports: $30–$50 if you don’t already have a recent one
- Document preparation services: $100–$300 if you don’t use a lawyer
- Mailing or printing fees: For large paperwork packets submitted to the court
- Travel or parking costs: If attending court hearings in person
These extras are usually minimal, but they can add up, especially without careful budgeting.
Total Cost of Filing Bankruptcy: What to Expect
Here’s a quick summary of what you might spend:
Expense Type | Chapter 7 | Chapter 13 |
Court Filing Fee | $338 | $313 |
Credit Counseling Course | $10–$50 | $10–$50 |
Debtor Education Course | $10–$50 | $10–$50 |
Attorney Fees | $1,000–$2,500 | $3,000–$5,000 |
Other Costs | $50–$200 | $50–$200 |
Your final total depends on whether you file pro se (without a lawyer), apply for fee waivers, or use additional services.
Bankruptcy Costs Are Worth the Long-Term Relief
If you’re wondering how much is it to file bankruptcy, remember the goal: to eliminate overwhelming debt and get your life back on track. Compared to years of high-interest payments and financial stress, bankruptcy costs are often a smart investment.
Get Help Understanding How Much It Is to File Bankruptcy
Still asking how much is it to file bankruptcy in your specific situation? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. An experienced bankruptcy professional can review your finances, explain your filing options, and help you find the most affordable path forward.
Visit BankruptcyAttorneys.net to request a free case evaluation and connect with a trusted legal advisor.
Start today—know your costs, explore your options, and move toward financial relief with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much is it to file bankruptcy without a lawyer?
Expect to pay around $350–$450 for court and course fees, assuming no additional help is used.
2. Can I waive the bankruptcy filing fee?
Yes, if your income is below 150% of the poverty line and you can’t pay in installments, you may qualify for a waiver.
3. Is it cheaper to file Chapter 7 or Chapter 13?
Chapter 7 usually costs less upfront. Chapter 13 has a lower filing fee but higher total legal fees due to the longer case.
4. Can I make payments on my bankruptcy fees?
Yes, many courts allow installment payments for the filing fee, and Chapter 13 attorney fees can often be included in your plan.
5. What if I can’t afford a lawyer?
Some legal aid organizations offer free or reduced-cost bankruptcy help. Start with a free evaluation to learn your options.
Key Takeaways
- Filing Chapter 7 costs around $338; Chapter 13 costs $313
- Mandatory courses add another $20–$100 total
- Attorney fees can range from $1,000 to $5,000 based on case and chapter
- Additional costs are usually minimal but should be considered
- Fee waivers and installment plans are available for those who qualify
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