Bankruptcy · free tool

Chapter 7 vs Chapter 13 Recommender

Chapter 7 vs Chapter 13 Recommender It’s free, runs in your browser, and stores nothing you enter.

Is your income above the state median (see bk-means)?

Monthly disposable income after allowed expenses

Behind on a house or car you want to keep?

Chapter 7 vs Chapter 13

Chapter 7 may fit

below median or little disposable income, no must-cure secured debt

Above median incomeNo

Monthly disposable income$0

Behind on a house/carNo

Illustrative routing only. The full means test (Form 122A-2) and your goals (keep vs surrender property) drive the real choice. Not legal advice. This is an illustrative estimate for general informational purposes only. It is not legal, tax, or financial advice, it does not create an attorney–client relationship, and it is not a quote, promise, prediction, or guarantee of any benefit, amount, eligibility, deadline, or outcome. Figures are based on published government sources as of the date shown and change over time; results may not reflect current law or the facts of your situation. Do not rely on this tool; consult a licensed attorney before taking or refraining from any action.

Key figures behind this estimate

Published government figures used in the calculation, with their effective date and source.

§522(d)(1) homestead

As of 2026 · Federal Register, Adjustment of Certain Dollar Amounts in the Bankruptcy Code (effective Apr 1, 2025 – Mar 31, 2028; 13.2% adjustment)

31,575

§522(d)(2) motor vehicle

As of 2026 · Federal Register 2025-02207 (eff. 2025-04-01)

5,025

§522(d)(5) wildcard (base)

As of 2026 · Federal Register 2025-02207

1,675

§522(d)(5) wildcard (unused-homestead add-on)

As of 2026 · Federal Register 2025-02207

15,800

§522(d)(3) household goods (aggregate)

As of 2026 · Federal Register 2025-02207

16,850

Frequently asked questions

What does the Chapter 7 vs Chapter 13 Recommender estimate?

Chapter 7 vs Chapter 13 Recommender It runs entirely in your browser and stores nothing you enter.

Are the figures current?

Yes. The estimate uses published government figures, each dated on this page (as of 2026) with its source.

Is this calculator legal advice?

No. It is an informational estimate from published data and does not create an attorney–client relationship. Confirm specifics with a licensed attorney.

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Illustrative routing only. The full means test (Form 122A-2) and your goals (keep vs surrender property) drive the real choice. Not legal advice.