Bankruptcy Calculator | How The Means Test Works
Bankruptcy Calculator . The bankruptcy means test is an objective standard of weighing whether a debtor qualifies for bankruptcy under Chapter 7. Old bankruptcy law often made it relatively easy for filers to meet the criteria since bankruptcy courts used considerable discretion in determining eligibility. However, Congress passed the Bankruptcy Protection Act of 2005 to counteract the effects of lenient and inconsistent standards. As a result, most filers must now pass the bankruptcy means test to qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
Debtors Eligible to Bypass the Means Test
The bankruptcy means test does not apply to disabled veterans that incurred debt while on active duty or while serving in homeland defense activities. This exclusion applies as long as the veteran’s disability rating is at least 30 percent and more than half of the debt was acquired during active military duty or during service for homeland defense. Despite income and expenses, the veteran may file for Chapter 7.
If a filer’s debts came mostly from operating a business, the bankruptcy means test is inapplicable and the debtor may file for bankruptcy under Chapter 7.
The Means Test: Step 1
The first part the means test compares the debtor’s average monthly income for the six months before filing for bankruptcy with their state’s median family income. If a debtor’s income is less than or equal to the state median, they can file for Chapter 7. There is still a chance that, even if a debtor passes the median income test, a bankruptcy trustee may later determine that the debtor has enough income after paying allowable expenses to repay creditors in a Chapter 13 repayment plan. The bankruptcy court will convert the Chapter 7 bankruptcy to a Chapter 13 bankruptcy if it agrees with the trustee.
Bankruptcy Calculator : The income calculation should include the following sources
wages, salary, tips, bonuses, overtime, and commissions
gross income from a business, profession, or a farm
interest, dividends, and royalties
rental and real property income
regular child support or spousal support
unemployment compensation
pension and retirement income
workers’ compensation
annuity payments
state disability insurance
Income excluded from the calculation includes tax refunds, Social Security retirement benefits, Social Security Disability Insurance, Supplemental Security Income, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families.
The Means Test: Step 2
If the debtor makes more than their state’s median income, it is necessary to complete the second part of the means test to determine eligibility. If after deducting all allowed expenses — actual and standardized expenses — the debtor’s disposable income is enough to pay some portion of unsecured debt in a Chapter 13 repayment plan, then the debtor does not qualify for Chapter 7.
Explain Your Special Circumstances If You Fail the Means Test (Bankruptcy Calculator)
A debtor that does not pass the bankruptcy means test may choose to file for Chapter 7 anyway. In all likelihood, a motion will be made to dismiss the case or convert it to a Chapter 13 bankruptcy. The debtor can defend the motion by establishing the presence of “special circumstances,” such as recent unemployment, unusually high rent, or a serious medical condition. To demonstrate the special circumstance, the debtor must provide documentation for the requested expense or adjustment to their income and must explain the necessity of the adjustment or expense. If the bankruptcy court allows the expense or adjustment and the debtor passes the means test, then the debtor will win the motion.
File for Chapter 13 Bankruptcy If You Fail the Means Test
A debtor that fails the means test may file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Chapter 13 places a filer’s debt in a five-year repayment plan. The plan must include the repayment of mandatory debts, such as priority debts and secured debts, and a portion of debts owed to nonpriority, unsecured creditors.- findlaw
Contact a professional and experience bankruptcy attorney to review your means test (bankruptcy calculator). Contact Pinkston & PInkston today!