Calculators
Bankruptcy Means Test Calculator
Check the US Chapter 7 means test: compare income with the state median, then test monthly disposable income over 60 months.
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The tool
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What people use it for
- Initial bankruptcy screening
- Preparing for a consultation with a bankruptcy attorney
- Understanding Chapter 7 eligibility
- Law firm intake
About this tool
What the Bankruptcy Means Test Calculator does
The US bankruptcy means test decides who may file under Chapter 7. If six-month average income annualised is below the state median for the household size, the test is passed. If above, allowed expenses are deducted, and disposable income over 60 months is compared with thresholds that are adjusted every three years.
Formula
- Annualised income = 6-month average monthly income × 12
- If at or below the state median, the presumption does not arise
- Otherwise: 60-month disposable income compared with the lower and upper thresholds and with 25% of unsecured debt
Worked example
Using the starting values in the calculator above:
| Input | Value |
|---|---|
| Average monthly income (last 6 months) | $6,200 |
| State median annual income for your household size | $82,000 |
| Allowed monthly expenses and debt payments | $5,900 |
| Lower 60-month threshold | $10,275 |
| Upper 60-month threshold | $17,150 |
| Non-priority unsecured debt | $48,000 |
| Result | Value |
|---|---|
| Means test result | Below median: presumption of abuse does not arise |
| Annualised income | $74,400 |
How to read the result
Allowed expenses follow IRS national and local standards plus actual figures for some items; getting them right often decides the result.
Failing the means test does not prevent bankruptcy; Chapter 13 repayment plans remain available.
General information only, not legal advice. Laws and court practice vary by jurisdiction; consult a qualified lawyer.
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Questions
Questions about this tool
The things clients actually want to know — costs, timelines, ownership and what happens after launch.
A test under US bankruptcy law that uses income and allowed expenses to decide whether a debtor may file Chapter 7.
Most income received in the six calendar months before filing, averaged, with some exceptions such as Social Security benefits.
You may still file Chapter 13 or show special circumstances.
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