When filing a bankruptcy it is very important that a consumer understand the dictates of the “means test”.
The means test numbers change twice a year.
Each consumer filing for bankruptcy must fill out a document known as the means test. A means test is a summary of all income over the last 6 months. Depending on the family size the outcome of the means test may control whether the consumer can file a chapter 7 bankruptcy or a chapter 13 bankruptcy. The means test has specific amounts for a specific family size. The means test numbers change twice a year and may go up or down.
We have several videos on our web site. Below are a few that might be of interest:
- “Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Process”
- “Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Process”
- “Meet Ms. Drain and Suggestions on How to Hire an Attorney”
MUSINGS BY DIANE:
Many people ask me why they should pay an experienced bankruptcy lawyer to file for bankruptcy. I explain that there are many subtle issues that affect them throughout the bankruptcy. Right now one issue dealing with the means test is that a family of 1 or 2 will be better filing their bankruptcy before the mean test change again. But, a family of three or more is better filing after the change. (Note – check the United States Trustee’s Office for the latest means test amounts.)
Do you think this type of disparate treatment is appropriate? I don’t, but what do you think?
Diane is a well respected Arizona bankruptcy and foreclosure attorney. As a retired law professor, she believes in offering everyone, not just her clients, advice about bankruptcy and Arizona foreclosure laws. Diane is also a mentor to hundreds of Arizona attorneys.
*Important Note from Diane: Everything on this web site is offered for educational purposes only and not intended to provide legal advice, nor create an attorney client relationship between you, me, or the author of any article. Information in this web site should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from an attorney familiar with your personal circumstances and licensed to practice law in your state. Make sure to check out their reviews.*
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