The filing fee for a Chapter bankruptcy is $338. However, if you can’t afford the fee plus your attorney fees, there are still ways to file. Here are several solutions from the attorneys at Groce & DeArmon.
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How to Pay for a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Filing Fee
If you don’t have the money to pay the $338 fee to file Chapter 7 Bankruptcy or you need to pay in several small installments, you have a few options that may help.
- Apply for an installment payment plan. If you have a steady income stream, you can apply to pay the court filing fee for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in installments. That means, your payments will be smaller and spread out over several months to make the cost more manageable. You will need to fill out a form to apply. Once your application is submitted, a hearing will be scheduled and the court will either approve or deny your request.
- Apply for a filing fee waiver. You can also apply for a Chapter 7 filing fee waiver if you cannot pay the fee, even with installments. You’ll have to meet certain eligibility requirements, including not being able to pay the fee in installments over 120 days and having a family income that is not more than 150% of Missouri’s poverty level. To get the fee waived, you’ll need to fill out an application and provide in-depth information about your income, family size, expenses, and more.
How to Pay Your Attorney Fees for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
Representing yourself for a Chapter 7 case is not generally recommended. If you owe priority debts like taxes or child support, your case will be more complex and you’ll need to have more knowledge of bankruptcy law to accurately understand how it applies to you. Additionally, if you don’t comply with the court’s requirements, your case could be dismissed. To avoid all that, it’s best to hire an attorney. So how will you pay the fees?
- Payment plan for attorney fees. In most cases, an attorney will offer a payment plan so you can cover their attorney fees over a greater period of time. However, one important thing to keep in mind is that you’ll have to pay the entire attorney fee before you file for bankruptcy.
- Apply for pro bono bankruptcy services. In every state (including Missouri), you can apply for free legal representation for your bankruptcy case through a legal aid organization. However, you’ll need to meet the income eligibility criteria to use these free services. In Missouri, your family’s income must not be more than 125% of federal poverty levels.
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Speak to a Chapter 7 bankruptcy Lawyer Today
If you need help to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy but you’re concerned about being able to pay the associated fees, contact Groce & DeArmon, P.C., today. Our first consultation is always free. Please contact us today or call our office at 417-862-3706 or 1-800-640-3706.
