Can't Afford to File Bankruptcy? Low-Cost Options Explained

Options When You Cannot Afford Bankruptcy

If you cannot afford the filing fee or attorney costs, you still have options:

• Fee waiver (Chapter 7 only): If your income is below 150% of the federal poverty guideline, file Form 103B to request a complete waiver of the $338 filing fee.
• Installment payments: File Form 103A to pay the filing fee in up to 4 installments over 120 days. Available for both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13.
• Free legal help: Legal aid organizations, law school clinics, and pro bono attorneys provide free representation. See legal aid resources.
• File pro se: Represent yourself. Total cost with fee waiver: $0 plus the cost of credit counseling ($15-$50).
• Upsolve: Free, nonprofit-run tool that helps you prepare Chapter 7 forms. Available at upsolve.org.