Can I file bankruptcy without a lawyer?

Yes. Individuals may file their own bankruptcy case (pro se). Simple Chapter 7 cases are the most common self-filed cases. Chapter 13 cases are much harder to complete successfully without a lawyer.

How much does it cost to file bankruptcy yourself?

You pay the court filing fee, which can be paid in installments or, in Chapter 7, waived for low-income filers, plus the cost of two required courses (credit counseling and debtor education), which are usually inexpensive.

What is the bankruptcy means test?

The means test compares your average household income over the last six months with the median income for a household of your size in your state. If your income is below the median, you generally qualify for Chapter 7.

Free bankruptcy filing tool

Prepare your bankruptcy paperwork yourself, free

Answer plain-English questions. We check the means test and fill in the official court forms for you, ready to review, sign, and file.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I really file bankruptcy without a lawyer?

Yes. Anyone can file their own case; this is called filing pro se. Simple Chapter 7 cases with few assets, income below the state median, and no recent property transfers are the best fit. Chapter 13 cases require a multi-year repayment plan and are much harder to complete without a lawyer.

How much does it cost?

This tool is free. You will pay the court's filing fee (you can ask to pay in installments or, in Chapter 7, ask for a waiver if your income is low) and the cost of two short required courses, which are often $10–$50 each and can be reduced based on income.

Is my information private?

Yes. Everything you type is stored only in your web browser on this device. We never receive it. If you use a shared or public computer, use "Erase all answers" when you are done.

When should I hire a lawyer instead?

Consider a lawyer if you own a home with significant equity, run a business, have income above your state's median, filed bankruptcy recently, face foreclosure or eviction, recently gave away or sold property, or are being sued. The tool flags these situations as you go. Find a bankruptcy lawyer near you.

Does this tool file my case for me?

No. It organizes your information and tells you which official forms to complete. You fill in and sign the official forms and file them with your bankruptcy court.