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What Does It Cost to File Bankruptcy? Breaking Down the Real Fees and Expenses
What Does It Cost to File Bankruptcy? Understanding the Basics Before You Start What does it cost to file bankruptcy
September 8, 2025
What Does It Cost to File Bankruptcy? Breaking Down the Real Fees and Expenses
What Does It Cost to File Bankruptcy? Understanding the Basics Before You Start
What does it cost to file bankruptcy is one of the first questions people ask when facing serious financial hardship. If you’re considering bankruptcy as a way to reset your finances, it’s important to understand the fees involved—both the official court costs and the out-of-pocket expenses that can add up quickly.
In this article, we’ll break down all the expected costs, when and why they apply, and what to consider when deciding whether bankruptcy is the right move for your situation.
Filing Fees: The Fixed Costs of Bankruptcy
Filing for bankruptcy isn’t free. No matter which chapter you choose, there are mandatory court fees and administrative costs you’ll need to pay up front or request to pay in installments.
Chapter 7 Filing Fee
Chapter 7 bankruptcy is designed for individuals who can’t afford to repay their debts. The current federal filing fee for Chapter 7 is typically around $338. This fee includes:
- A $245 case filing fee
- A $78 administrative fee
- A $15 trustee surcharge
These fees are paid directly to the court. In some cases, low-income filers may request a waiver or ask the court to split the payment into installments.
Chapter 13 Filing Fee
Chapter 13 bankruptcy allows filers to create a payment plan over three to five years. The current Chapter 13 filing fee is usually about $313, made up of:
- A $235 case filing fee
- A $78 administrative fee
Although slightly lower than Chapter 7’s fee, Chapter 13 may cost more over time due to the length and complexity of the repayment process.
Attorney Fees: What You Pay for Legal Representation
Attorney fees often make up the biggest portion of bankruptcy costs. While it is technically possible to file on your own (called filing pro se), having an experienced bankruptcy attorney dramatically improves your chances of success.
How Much Do Bankruptcy Lawyers Charge?
Attorney fees vary based on:
- Your location
- The complexity of your case
- Whether you’re filing Chapter 7 or Chapter 13
Chapter 7 attorneys may charge a flat fee ranging between a few hundred and a few thousand dollars. This fee is usually paid in full before the case is filed.
Chapter 13 attorneys typically cost more overall, but their fees can often be built into the monthly repayment plan, making them easier to manage over time.
Why Paying for an Attorney Can Save You Money
A good attorney ensures your paperwork is correct, deadlines are met, and you avoid costly mistakes like:
- Getting your case dismissed due to errors
- Failing to discharge certain debts
- Losing assets you could have protected
In short, while you might save money upfront by filing alone, you could pay far more in the long run without professional help.
Required Credit Counseling and Debtor Education Costs
Before you can file for bankruptcy, federal law requires you to complete two courses:
- Credit Counseling (before filing)
- Debtor Education (after filing)
These courses must be provided by court-approved agencies and typically cost between $10 and $50 each. In some cases, fees may be waived for individuals with low income.
What Happens If You Skip These?
Failing to complete these courses or submitting proof to the court can result in your case being delayed or even dismissed. These courses are not just formalities—they are essential parts of the process and should be planned for in your budget.
Additional Costs That Might Apply
While many costs are standardized, there are a few other charges that could arise depending on your specific situation.
Credit Reports
Some attorneys may require a copy of your full credit report. If you don’t already have one, they may charge a small fee (often $20–$40) to pull this data on your behalf.
Appraisals or Valuations
If you own valuable property, such as a home, business, or collectibles, you may need to get these appraised to determine your total asset value. Professional appraisals can cost $100 to $500 or more, depending on the item and market.
Court Motions and Amendments
If you need to file a motion or amend your paperwork after filing, the court may charge additional administrative fees, generally between $25 and $50 per change.
How the Type of Bankruptcy Affects Total Costs
The total amount you pay to file for bankruptcy depends heavily on whether you’re filing Chapter 7 or Chapter 13. Each chapter has different requirements, timelines, and implications for your long-term finances.
Chapter 7: Lower Upfront, But Strict Eligibility
Chapter 7 is often seen as the more affordable option up front. You’ll need to pay your filing fee, credit counseling and education costs, and possibly attorney fees before your case is filed.
However, Chapter 7 has strict means testing requirements. You’ll need to demonstrate that your income is below a certain threshold to qualify. If you earn too much, you may be forced to convert your case to Chapter 13.
Chapter 13: Easier to Manage Over Time, But More Expensive Overall
With Chapter 13, you’re committing to a 3- to 5-year repayment plan. That means:
- Attorney fees can often be built into your repayment plan
- Filing and court costs are slightly lower than Chapter 7
- You’ll end up paying more over time due to trustee fees and plan administration costs
So while Chapter 13 may feel more affordable in the short term, it often carries a higher total cost by the end of the process.
What Happens If You Can’t Afford to File?
When asking, What does it cost to file bankruptcy, many people are already struggling to make ends meet. If you’re facing eviction, garnishment, or utility shut-offs, you may wonder how you can afford to file at all.
Fee Waivers for Low-Income Filers
If your income is below 150% of the federal poverty line, and you can’t afford the filing fee, you may apply for a fee waiver. This is available for Chapter 7 cases only and must be approved by the bankruptcy court.
You’ll need to file a formal application and provide documentation showing:
- Income
- Expenses
- Inability to pay in installments
If granted, this can waive your entire filing fee, though attorney fees and other charges may still apply.
Paying in Installments
The bankruptcy court may also let you pay the filing fee in up to four monthly installments, so long as the full fee is paid within 120 days after filing.
This option helps if you can’t afford the full amount right away, but don’t qualify for a full waiver.
Finding Free or Low-Cost Legal Help
Legal support is one of the most valuable (and often expensive) parts of filing for bankruptcy. Fortunately, there are resources available for those who qualify.
Legal Aid and Pro Bono Services
Many cities and states offer legal aid clinics or nonprofit bankruptcy assistance programs. These may be able to:
- Help you complete your paperwork
- Represent you in court
- Guide you through credit counseling requirements
You can search for help through:
- Local bar associations
- State legal aid organizations
- The U.S. Department of Justice’s list of approved bankruptcy organizations
Law School Clinics
Some law schools operate clinics where supervised law students assist low-income individuals with their bankruptcy cases. While not available everywhere, this can be an affordable option for basic Chapter 7 filings.
Beware of “Cheap” Bankruptcy Services
When researching what does it cost to file bankruptcy, you may come across ads promising bankruptcy help for $99 or less. These are often document preparation services, not licensed attorneys.
Risks of Using Non-Attorneys
These services can:
- Fill out forms, but not offer legal advice
- Miss critical legal details
- Leave you unprepared if your case is contested
Bankruptcy is a legal process—mistakes can cost you your discharge or even result in asset loss. Always verify credentials and make sure you’re working with a licensed bankruptcy attorney if you need legal guidance.
Comparing Total Costs: Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13
Understanding what does it cost to file bankruptcy requires comparing the all-in costs between the two most common filing types.
Estimated Chapter 7 Costs (Nationwide Averages)
- Filing fee: $338
- Credit counseling + education: $50–$100
- Attorney fees: $1,000–$2,000
- Total: $1,400–$2,500 (on average)
Chapter 7 tends to require the most upfront payment but results in a faster discharge, typically within 3–6 months.
Estimated Chapter 13 Costs (Nationwide Averages)
- Filing fee: $313
- Credit counseling + education: $50–$100
- Attorney fees: $3,000–$5,000 (paid in installments through plan)
- Trustee fees: 5%–10% of your monthly payments
- Total: $3,500–$6,000 (spread over 3–5 years)
Although Chapter 13 can reduce initial cash outlay by allowing payment over time, the overall cost is higher in most cases.
When Is Bankruptcy Worth the Cost?
The real question behind what does it cost to file bankruptcy isn’t just the dollar amount—it’s whether the process will result in meaningful financial relief.
You may benefit from bankruptcy if:
- You owe significantly more than you can repay
- Creditors are suing, garnishing wages, or threatening repossession
- Your credit is already damaged, and you need a fresh start
- You’ve explored other options (e.g., debt settlement, consolidation) without success
When done right, bankruptcy can eliminate credit card debt, medical bills, and personal loans—potentially saving you tens of thousands in the long run, even after fees.
Ready to Explore Your Options? Understand What Bankruptcy Really Costs
If you’re asking what does it cost to file bankruptcy, you’re already thinking about a serious step toward regaining control of your finances. While the cost may feel intimidating, bankruptcy is often the most efficient way to reset overwhelming debt.
Talking to a professional can help you weigh the pros and cons of each type, estimate total costs for your situation, and avoid costly mistakes in the filing process.
Get Help Understanding What Does It Cost to File Bankruptcy
If you’re wondering what does it cost to file bankruptcy, don’t guess—get a clear picture based on your exact situation. A free legal evaluation through Bankruptcy Attorneys can help you calculate your filing costs, assess your eligibility, and explore low-cost solutions.
Contact us today to connect with an experienced bankruptcy attorney and get your personalized cost estimate.
FAQs About Bankruptcy Filing Costs
1. Can I file bankruptcy for free?
If your income is below the poverty threshold, you may qualify for a filing fee waiver in Chapter 7. However, most filers still pay some form of credit counseling or attorney fees.
2. Do attorney fees have to be paid up front?
Not always. In Chapter 13, attorney fees are often rolled into the repayment plan. In Chapter 7, most attorneys require upfront payment before filing.
3. What if I can’t afford a bankruptcy attorney?
You may qualify for legal aid, pro bono services, or law school clinics. These programs can assist with paperwork and filing, especially for simple Chapter 7 cases.
4. What is the cheapest type of bankruptcy?
Chapter 7 is generally cheaper if you qualify. It costs less upfront and completes faster, but it has income and asset limits.
5. Are there hidden costs when filing bankruptcy?
Beyond filing and attorney fees, you may encounter credit report pulls, mailing costs, or trustee-administered payments. Always review your attorney’s fee agreement carefully.
Key Takeaways
- Filing for bankruptcy typically costs between $1,400 and $6,000, depending on the chapter and legal help involved.
- Chapter 7 requires more money upfront, but clears debt quickly.
- Chapter 13 allows installment payments but costs more in total over time.
- Free and low-cost legal help is available for qualifying individuals.
- The value of bankruptcy lies in long-term debt relief, not just short-term cost savings.
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