Official filing fees
Chapter 7 is $338 and Chapter 13 is $313.
These petition fees are listed by official bankruptcy court sources as of August 13, 2026. The total cost may also include attorney services, approved credit counseling, debtor education, copies, records, and case-specific work. Court fees and procedures can change; verify the current amount and local payment instructions.
Bankruptcy cost comparison
| Cost | Chapter 7 | Chapter 13 |
|---|---|---|
| Court petition fee* | $338 | $313 |
| Attorney fee model | Often flat fee for a defined consumer case; timing and scope vary | May combine pre-filing payment and court-approved compensation through the plan |
| Required courses | Credit counseling before filing; debtor education after filing | Credit counseling before filing; debtor education after filing |
| Potential extras | Amendments, disputes, adversary proceedings, lien or reaffirmation work, conversion | Objections, claim disputes, modifications, post-confirmation motions, conversion or dismissal work |
| Other payments | Secured debts or reaffirmed obligations as applicable | Trustee payment plus direct obligations under the plan and local practice |
What a lawyer fee agreement should answer
- Who is the responsible attorney?
- Which services and hearings are included?
- What is due, to whom, and on what date?
- Which work can create an additional fee?
- What happens after amendment, dispute, conversion, or dismissal?
- What are the cancellation and refund terms?
Court installment and waiver questions
Individuals may ask the court about paying a filing fee in installments. Some Chapter 7 filers may request a waiver under applicable rules and income standards. Approval is not automatic. Use current official forms and local instructions; do not rely on an advertisement that treats approval as guaranteed.
Fee comparison worksheet
| Item | Lawyer A | Lawyer B | Lawyer C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total expected legal fee | |||
| Due before filing | |||
| Paid later or through plan | |||
| Included services | |||
| Likely extra work | |||
| Refund/cancellation terms |
Do not confuse payment language with total price
“Low money down,” “zero down,” “$0 to start,” and “payment plan” may describe timing rather than the total amount. Request the complete payment map and every related contract.
Official sources
Detailed cost guides
Chapter 7 lawyer cost · Chapter 13 lawyer cost · Zero-down advertisements
*Fees current as of August 13, 2026; verify before filing.