Bankruptcy has real costs, but they are often far less than the debt you are trying to eliminate. Here is a transparent breakdown of every cost you should expect.
| Cost Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Court filing fee | $338 | Can pay in installments; fee waiver available |
| Attorney fees | $1,500-$2,500 | Typical Newark range; usually paid upfront |
| Pre-filing credit counseling | $15-$25 | Required within 180 days before filing |
| Post-filing debtor education | $10-$25 | Required before discharge |
If your household income is below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines, you can apply to have the $338 filing fee waived entirely. You file the fee waiver application (Official Form 103B) with your petition.
| Cost Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Court filing fee | $313 | Can be paid through your plan |
| Attorney fees | $3,500-$5,000 | Typical Newark range; mostly paid through plan |
| Pre-filing credit counseling | $15-$25 | Required within 180 days before filing |
| Post-filing debtor education | $10-$25 | Required before discharge |
Attorney fees and the filing fee can be included in your repayment plan. You typically need only a small upfront payment (often $0-$500), with the rest paid through monthly plan payments over 3-5 years.
Filing fee: $338. Attorney fees: $1,500-$2,500. Credit counseling: $25-50 total. Fee waivers available for low-income filers. National cost comparison.
Filing fee: $313. Attorney fees: $3,500-$5,000. Most costs can be paid through your repayment plan.
The filing fee can be waived for low-income Chapter 7 filers. Legal Services of New Jersey may provide free representation.
For Chapter 7, usually yes. For Chapter 13, fees are typically included in your plan.
Related Newark Bankruptcy Resources
Our research was cited by the federal judiciary as Suggestions 26-BK-3 and 26-BK-5
You May Also Find Helpful