Know your rights ·

Should I consider Chapter 7 or Chapter 13?

General information for New Jersey, New York and Washington, DC · Last updated

Quick answer

Chapter choice depends on income, assets, debts, goals, and eligibility, not just which seems faster.

Do now

Prepare a complete asset/debt list, recent income and tax records, a realistic budget, and prior-case information. Ask how each available option affects property, secured debts, support, and payments.

Watch for

Means-test results alone do not answer every eligibility or best-option question. Chapter 13 requires a workable plan; Chapter 7 can expose nonexempt property to administration.

Official sources

US Courts — Chapter 7 Basics, US Courts — Chapter 13 Basics, DOJ — Means Testing.

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