Bankruptcy Means Test: Chapter 7 Qualification (2025)

[@AscendFinance]

Thanks for watching! As I mentioned, you can take our Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Means Test Calculator here: tryascend.com/qualify/bankruptcy/ch7/quick/youtubebkmeans If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call at 833-272-3631!

[@GisellesCurls]

US Census reports in 2022 California Median income was 91,905

[@AscendFinance]

Here is the most current chart provided by justice.gov for median family income data. www.justice.gov/ust/eo/bapcpa/20240401/bci_data/median_income_table.htm It is important to note that there may be state exemptions and additional considerations that could change how your income is measured. In all cases, it is best to consult a bankruptcy attorney to get a full understanding of qualification.

[@gregory129]

Does chapter 7 satisfy a default judgment?

[@AscendFinance]

Bankruptcy provides legal protection, so it will stop any judgments against you.

[@gregory129]

@@AscendFinance thank you. Even if I have equity in my house?

[@AscendFinance]

Yes! A chapter 13 gives full asset protection, a chapter 7 might protect the home, it depends on the state exemptions.

[@jameswarfield4152]

Will my social security be considered in my means test? Even if it's not considered in my means test, will if I file will the trustee see that though I qualify with just my disability and retirement, I would not have qualified if SS was considered.

[@AscendFinance]

Great question! Social Security may not be considered, but I'd want a local attorney to confirm that with you. Would you mind giving me a call at 833-272-3631? I can go through this with you.

[@jamievaughn1485]

I did the means test and it had me making payments that were more than I pay now. I think I'll just consult a local attorney.

[@AscendFinance]

Hmm using our calculator? It should just be an upfront attorney fee for a chapter 7 bankruptcy. If you need help finding an attorney, give us a call at 833-272-3631 and we can try to connect you to one who serves your county!

[@dougs7367]

What if you have no income but your major bills (mortgage, internet, water, electric, etc) have been paid by a family member for two years.

[@AscendFinance]

To qualify for a chapter 7 they will look at the gross income for the household, so your bills being paid by others shouldn't impact the qualification if it's only you being counted for your household but you may want to confirm that with an attorney.

[@mwoods4608]

I was thinking of trying to file myself. Im currently on a debt relief plan, but with this col, single mom 2 kids its just not doable anymore.

[@AscendFinance]

Totally understandable, sometimes a debt relief plan may not be manageable. If you have questions or want to talk about this more, give us a call at 833-272-3631.

[@luiscastro5456]

is VA disability pay and social security considered income for filing bankruptcy?

[@AscendFinance]

Not always, but it does depend. If you're open to it, give us a call/text at 833-272-3631 and we can go through this in more detail!

[@zmfischer]

If someone is unemployed, they automatically pass the means test for chapter 7?

[@AscendFinance]

That would be a great question for an attorney. They generally do a 6 month look back of your income, so a sort of average, but definitely a great question for a bankruptcy attorney in a free evaluation. If you need any help setting one up, feel free to give us a call (833-272-3631).

[@rafaelechols8978]

Will the attorney do this pro bono if your on a fixed income.

[@AscendFinance]

It depends on who you hire. I believe there is a resource called Legal Aid that does things pro bono, but most attorneys, including our partners, have a fee to file.

[@GisellesCurls]

Thank You

[@AscendFinance]

My pleasure! If you have any questions feel free to call or text my team at [phone].

[@thomasvernon5068]

Does ss benefits included in gross income

[@AscendFinance]

Hi! SS should be exempt income in the means test. Feel free to call us at 833-272-3631 if you have more questions!

[@kendoug5722]

What does it mean that i may qualify for chapter 7? Im 20k below California median

[@AscendFinance]

So, you may be able to qualify for Chapter 7. An attorney may be able to help you go through that to confirm. If it's helpful to get linked up with on in California for a free evaluatoin, please feel free to give me a call at 833-272-3631. Thanks and happy new year!

[@TheSkydiva67]

Is this for CA residents only?

[@AscendFinance]

Thanks, not at all, this is build for all 50 states. Here's the link: tryascend.com/qualify/bankruptcy/ch7/quick

[@smeg8557]

Can you help me in California?

[@AscendFinance]

Absolutely, we can help. We can walk you through the means test on the phone if that’s helpful or we can go through options or connect you with a local attorney for a free phone evaluation. Give us a text or call at 833-272-3631.

[@GisellesCurls]

Florida !!???

[@shimmergangfitness5880]

Hi, I'm located in Florida . Are you able to help ?

[@AscendFinance]

Yes! We help everyone in every state! Give us a call at 833-272-3631!

[@AscendFinance]

@shimmergangfitness5880 Yep! We help everyone in every state, give us a call at 833-272-3631!

[@hirsam7805]

Write in subtitle to make clear student understand

[@AscendFinance]

Hi, thanks for the feedback! I went ahead and added subtitles to the newest video and the one I am working on now. Thanks again!