What are the Chapter 7 Income Limits?

Can You File for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy? Unveiling the Income Limits
Living in Portland, OR and struggling with overwhelming debt? You might be considering Chapter 7 bankruptcy as a way to achieve a fresh financial start. This legal process allows you to discharge most unsecured debts, providing much-needed relief.  However, eligibility for Oregon Chapter 7 income limits play a role in determining if this is the right option for you.
Quick Summary:

• Chapter 7 bankruptcy eliminates eligible debts through asset liquidation and debt discharge, providing a financial fresh start for individuals.
• There actually isn’t a single income limit for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.  Instead, it uses a means test that considers your income and expenses to determine if you qualify for relief under this chapter.
• To prepare for the Chapter 7 means test, gather documentation on your income and expenses, including pay stubs, tax returns, mortgage statements, utility bills, and other recurring bills. Then, calculate your disposable income and compare it to the median income for your area.
• Alternatives to Chapter 7 include Chapter 13 repayment plans, debt negotiation, consolidation loans, and credit counseling.

Can Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Take Away Debt?
Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a legal process designed to give individuals a fresh start financially. It is also known as a liquidation bankruptcy. Chapter 7 focuses on eliminating debt altogether. Here’s how it works:
Liquidation
A court-appointed trustee gathers and sells assets you’re allowed to keep. Then, they use the proceeds to repay your creditors to a certain extent. Secured creditors may repossess your car to satisfy the debt if you can’t afford to keep it.
Debt Discharge
Once the liquidation process is complete, the remaining eligible debts are discharged. This means you are no longer legally obligated to repay them. This can be helpful for individuals with overwhelming debt.
However, it’s important to know that Chapter 7 is more complicated than it looks. One important factor to consider is income limits.
What Are The Income Limits Under Chapter 7?
In Oregon, Chapter 7 bankruptcy eligibility considers your household size. The income limits are based on the average income for similar households and get adjusted periodically.
If your disposable income falls below this threshold, you qualify for Chapter 7. However, even if it exceeds the median, you might still be eligible under certain circumstances.
What is the Chapter 7 Mean Test and How Does it Work?
The Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act (BAPCPA) established a means test to determine eligibility for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. This test compares your household income to the median income for your family size in your state.
If your income falls below the median, you generally qualify for Chapter 7. However, even if your income exceeds the median, you might still be eligible. The means test is one such method.
The means test involves calculating your average monthly income from the past six months. This income is then subtracted allowable expenses based on IRS standards. This calculation determines your disposable income.
The Means Test Process
To prepare for the means test calculation for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you’ll need to gather documentation. There are two main categories of documentation: income and expenses.
Here’s a list of what documentations are needed:
Income Documentation

• Pay Stubs: Collect your most recent pay stubs covering at least the past six months. These will be used to calculate your average monthly income.
• Tax Returns: Your most recent federal tax return (and possibly state return) is important. This document provides a comprehensive overview of your income sources.
• Other Income Documentation: These are income from sources other than employment. This includes Social Security benefits, disability payments, or rental income.

Expense Documentation

• Mortgage Statements or Lease Agreement: This verifies your housing costs. This would be a significant allowable expense in the means test.
• Utility Bills: Gather recent statements for utilities. These include electricity, water, gas, and trash collection.
• Car Loan Statements: If you have a car loan, your monthly payment amount will likely be considered an allowable expense.
• Other Recurring Bills: Collect statements or receipts for recurring expenses. This includes phone bills, internet service, groceries, and childcare.

There is also additional information needed for your means test. This includes:

• Household Size: Knowing the number of people in your household is essential for comparing your income to the median.
• Debts: Having a list of your debts will help your overall financial situation.

Calculating Your Disposable Income
Once you have collected all the necessary documents, you can then continue with the calculations. The steps include:

• Income Calculation: Your total household income from all sources for the past six months is calculated.
• Median Income Comparison: This income is then compared to the median income for your family size and location. The median income is essentially the “middle” income in your area. For Oregon, that would be $70,266.
• Presumption of Abuse Test: If your income is below the median income, you generally pass the means test and are presumed eligible for Chapter 7.
• Means Test Formula: You can calculate your disposable income through the Oregon means test calculator. This formula takes into account your household expenses and allows for certain deductions.
• Pass or Fail: You compare your disposable income to the outcome. From there, you are either deemed eligible or ineligible for Chapter 7.

Are There Alternatives if I Exceed the Means Test?
Sometimes, you may fail the means test. However, this does not always result in an inability to file for bankruptcy.
There are alternatives to Chapter 7 bankruptcy if you don’t qualify for several reasons. Here are a few options to consider:
Chapter 13 Repayment Plan
This option allows you to create a court-approved plan to repay all or a portion of your debts over 3-5 years.
It can be a good solution if you have stable income and want to keep your assets. However, it requires strict adherence to the repayment plan.
Debt Negotiation
A qualified credit counselor or attorney can negotiate with your creditors. They can lower your interest rates and monthly payments.
This can make your debt more manageable without going through bankruptcy court. Success depends on your creditworthiness and the willingness of creditors to negotiate.
Debt Consolidation Loan
This involves taking out a single loan to pay off multiple debts. Ideally, the new loan will have a lower interest rate than your existing debts, simplifying your repayment process.
However, qualifying for a favorable consolidation loan can be challenging with high existing debt.
Credit Counseling
Non-profit credit counseling agencies offer helpful resources and budgeting tools. They can’t eliminate debt, but they can guide you towards better financial management to address your debt and improve your credit score.
The best alternative depends on your specific financial situation and goals.
Get Assistance From Our Trusted Bankruptcy Lawyers Today!
Northwest Debt Relief Law Firm understands the emotional and financial burden of debt. We are dedicated to helping Oregonians explore their options and achieve a path forward. We can offer you an answer to the question, “What are the Oregon Chapter 7 income limits?” and more.
While the means test seems straightforward, navigating the complexities of bankruptcy law can be challenging. That’s why our experienced Oregon bankruptcy attorneys can be invaluable for you.
If you’re considering Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Portland, OR, contact our skilled attorneys today. We can guide you through the process, ensuring you make informed decisions towards financial well-being. Get a free debt solution consultation today!