Chapter 7 does not use a repayment plan like Chapter 13.
U.S. Courts explains that a Chapter 7 trustee administers the estate and may sell nonexempt assets for creditors. Many consumer cases do not produce a distribution, but that cannot be assumed before property, liens, exemptions, transfers, and other facts are reviewed.
Core decision areas
Eligibility
Current means-test data, debt character, prior cases, and other statutory requirements may matter.
Means test guideProperty
Ownership, value, liens, exemptions, residency history, and recent transfers need accurate records.
Assets and exemptionsDebt outcome
Secured, priority, support, tax, student-loan, fraud-related, and other debts may receive different treatment.
Discharge and timelineProfessional help
Attorney review may be especially useful when assets, income, business activity, litigation, or urgent collection is involved.
Compare Chapter 7 attorneysTypical preparation sequence
- List every debt, asset, income source, expense, lawsuit, and recent transfer.
- Confirm the correct bankruptcy court and obtain current local instructions.
- Review Chapter 7 eligibility and alternatives using current data.
- Complete approved credit counseling before filing.
- Prepare accurate official forms and required documents.
- Respond to trustee requirements, attend the 341 meeting, and complete debtor education.
The sequence can change with local practice and case facts. Do not use this outline as filing instructions.
Cost and document tools
Chapter 7 lawyer cost · Chapter 7 document checklist · Court filing fees
Facts to review before filing
Recent family repayments, property transfers, unusual credit use, expected tax refunds, inheritances, legal claims, business interests, and secured property can affect the case. Do not omit a fact because it appears inconvenient.