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.
