California Chapter 7 Means Test Calculator
California Chapter 7 Means Test Calculator - Chapter 7 & Chapter 13 bankruptcy attorneys. Free consultation. Call (818) 514-7680.
California Bankruptcy Legal Services
Chapter 7 liquidation, Chapter 13 repayment plans, Chapter 11 business reorganization, and creditor rights representation. We help California residents and businesses navigate debt relief options, protect exempt assets, stop wage garnishments, and get a fresh financial start.
Free bankruptcy consultation: (818) 514-7680.
Fees, Costs and Case Results
Where representation is offered on a contingency basis there is no attorney fee unless we recover, and the firm advances case costs — filing fees, expert witnesses and medical records — which are then repaid out of any recovery. If there is no recovery, you owe no attorney fee. The specific terms that apply to a matter are set out in the written fee agreement for that matter.
Where this site refers to a verdict, settlement or court order, that result was dependent on the facts of that case, and results will differ if based on different facts. Past results do not predict or guarantee the outcome of any other matter, and no particular outcome is promised or guaranteed.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Chapter 7 means test?
- The Chapter 7 means test determines if your income is low enough to qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. If your household income is below California's median income for your household size, you automatically pass the means test and qualify for Chapter 7.
- What happens if I don't pass the means test?
- If your income exceeds the median, you may still qualify for Chapter 7 through a detailed means test calculation that accounts for allowed expenses. Alternatively, you can file Chapter 13 bankruptcy, which has no income limit but requires a 3-5 year repayment plan.
- What income counts for the means test?
- The means test uses your average gross monthly income from all sources over the past 6 months. This includes wages, self-employment income, rental income, retirement income, and Social Security. Some income types like Social Security disability may be excluded.
- How often do California median income numbers change?
- The U.S. Trustee Program updates median income figures approximately every 6 months (typically April 1 and November 1). Always use the most current figures when evaluating your eligibility, which your bankruptcy attorney can provide.
- Does my spouse's income count for the means test?
- If you're married and filing jointly, both incomes count. If filing individually but married, your spouse's income may still be included unless you're legally separated or living apart. California is a community property state, which affects how income is treated in bankruptcy.
Contact Trembach Law Firm
Trembach Law Firm, APC
27001 Agoura Road, Suite 350, Calabasas, CA 91301
Phone: (818) 514-7680
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