Bankruptcy Costs in 2026: Chapter 7 vs Chapter 13 Fees

Bankruptcy Costs in 2026

Chapter 7 bankruptcy costs $1,500-$3,500 total (including attorney fees). Chapter 13 costs $3,000-$6,000. These costs can often be included in a payment plan.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Costs

• Court filing fee: $338
• Credit counseling courses (2 required): $25 – $50 each
• Attorney fees: $1,000 – $3,000
• Total typical cost: $1,500 – $3,500

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Costs

• Court filing fee: $313
• Credit counseling courses: $25 – $50 each
• Attorney fees: $2,500 – $5,000 (often paid through the repayment plan)
• Total typical cost: $3,000 – $6,000

Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13

Chapter 7 eliminates most unsecured debt in 3-6 months. You must pass a means test (income below state median). Chapter 13 reorganizes debt into a 3-5 year repayment plan. Required if your income is above the means test threshold or if you want to keep assets like a home in foreclosure.

Alternatives to Consider

• Debt consolidation loan: Combine debts into one lower payment
• Debt management plan: Nonprofit credit counseling agencies negotiate rates
• Debt settlement: Negotiate to pay less than owed (risky, affects credit)