How much does it cost to file for bankruptcy?
Almost every answer to a question posed to an attorney begins with the phrase "it depends ..." The answer to this question is no different, but here goes. Every filing of a petition in bankruptcy involves three categories of expenses: Court fees / case costs, ancillary costs specific to an individual case and attorney fees. The following chart provides the currents costs for the Northern District of Illinois:
| Description | Court fees/case costs | Case specific costs | Attorney fees |
| Chapter 7 filing fee | $299 | $1500* | |
| Chapter 13 filing fee | $274 | $1500 - $3500** | |
| Credit report single | $30 | ||
| Credit report couple | $50 | ||
| Credit counseling | $40 | ||
| Debtor Education | $40 | ||
| Blind CMA | $100 | ||
| Real estate appraisal | $350 | ||
| IRS tax transcript | $15.50 each year | ||
| Reaffirmation Agreement Review | $100*** |
*Maximum Chapter 7 attorney fees; includes 1 reaffirmation agreement review; post filing payment plan available.
**Type of Chapter 13 case determines final fees; fees are paid through the Chapter 13 Plan and are not required up front.
***Additional reaffirmation agreements and/or court appearance required by same.
Many of the fees and costs may be subject to waiver or reduction for certain qualified individuals - find out if you qualify during your free initial consultation.
