Bankruptcy Means Test Calculator
A simplified Chapter 7 means test: compare your annualized household income to the state median to see if you likely qualify.
How it works
Annualized income = monthly income × 12 · Pass stage 1 if annualized income ≤ state median for your household size
The Chapter 7 means test screens whether higher-income filers must instead use Chapter 13. Its first stage is simple: average your household’s gross income over the six months before filing, annualize it, and compare it to the published median income for your state and household size. If you are at or below the median you generally pass outright. Only if you are above it does the test move to a detailed calculation of disposable income after allowed expenses — which this simplified tool does not perform.
Worked example
A household with $4,500 of average monthly income has an annualized income of $54,000. If the state median for that household size is $68,000, the filer is $14,000 below the median and likely passes the first stage of the means test.
Frequently asked questions
What if my income is above the median?
You are not automatically disqualified. You proceed to the second part of the means test, which subtracts allowed living expenses and secured-debt payments to see whether you have enough disposable income to repay creditors.
Where do I find my state’s median income?
The U.S. Trustee Program publishes median-income figures by state and household size, updated periodically. Use the figure for your exact household size on the filing date.
What income counts?
The test uses "current monthly income" — most gross income from all sources over the six calendar months before filing, with some exceptions like Social Security. This simplified tool assumes you have already averaged it.
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Educational estimate only — not legal, tax or financial advice. Actual settlements, awards and payoffs depend on the facts, jurisdiction and negotiation. Consult a licensed attorney.