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What is a Means Test?

Qualifying for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

If you are confronted with overwhelming debt, there are solutions for you. You may be considering filing for bankruptcy or the many other alternatives to bankruptcy. If you choose to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you will need to pass a means test - which is a process of examining your income and expenses to determine whether or not you are eligible for Chapter 7 or if Chapter 13 bankruptcy would be more suitable for your specific situation. This process involves a formula to compare your income to expenses to find out if you are able to pay back your creditors on a payment plan.

If the means test evaluation shows that you have a certain amount of 'excess' or 'disposable' income, you may not be eligible for filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy - and a Chapter 13 may be more appropriate. It is advised to discuss the bankruptcy process with an experienced Michigan bankruptcy attorney to discover what your best options are. The means test can be very complicated. The first step is analyzing your income. You will need to collect financial records such as pay stubs and bank statements from the last 6 months. If you are self-employed you will need more detailed paperwork.

If you are below the median income level for Michigan, you would "pass" a means test and can file Chapter 7. The means test also allows for certain reductions to your gross income such as payroll taxes, allowed budget credits set by government guidelines, secured debt on your home, a vehicle, and other necessary expenses which can affect your gross income. So, even if you are above the median level, you may still qualify for a Chapter 7 filing.

Talk to Hensel Law Office, PLLC

At Hensel Law Office, PLLC, I will work with you one on one personally throughout every aspect of your bankruptcy case, and help you work out the details and collect what you need for your means test should you need to complete one. I began my firm with the belief that my clients should not have to deal with several different attorneys and paralegals with regards to their circumstances but rather have a compassionate, understanding ally to help them through this difficult time. By applying my knowledge and experience, I have been able to help many clients achieve a brighter financial future. My firm provides legal guidance to those living in Warren, Sterling Heights and many other areas within the state of Michigan.

I look forward to assisting you, but first, you must take the initiative to call the firm today.

Client Testimonials

  • We have and will continue to recommend you to others in need of a fresh start.

    “Dear Tom, my husband and I wanted to express our deepest thanks for the help you gave us during our embarrassing and stressful time. I was very impressed that you returned every phone call in a timely manner. You were able to explain exactly what was going to happen in words that "we" could understand. You answered every question we threw at you. The whole bankruptcy process from start to finish was complete in the time you told us it would take. Your professionalism yet friendliness made the whole experience for us almost enjoyable... almost! We have and will continue to recommend you to others in need of a fresh start.”

    Melissa

  • Tom Hensel is definitely the right attorney to call!

    “I was referred to Tom Hensel by a friend. My first impression was not only was Tom professional but he's so kind and caring too. He helped my husband and I through an embarrassing, scary situation and definitely made it more positive one. He guided us through our options and helped us make the right decision for us which ended up being a chapter 7 bankruptcy. Tom was so knowledgeable and helped us throughout the whole process. He never once made us feel uncomfortable or dumb when we had questions. He was also very easy to get a hold of when questions would come up and would always return our calls and emails promptly. I strongly recommend Tom to anyone going through this kind of financial nightmare. Do yourselves a favor and call him right away. He will help you get on the right path again. Our only mistake was waiting so long to call him!! When we in court waiting our turn all the other attorneys referred to their clients as "The debtors" Tom on the other hand acknowledged us by our names. Little things mean a lot and that left a lasting impression with us. Tom Thank You again for all your help!!”

    Stacy S.

  • Mr. Hensel walked me through every step.

    “I would highly recommend the Hensel Law Office!! Mr. Hensel walked me through every step, got my garnishments stopped very quickly (even got garnished wages returned to me!) and told me what to expect along the way. He answered all of my questions in a very timely manner- no matter what time I sent an email or gave him a phone call. Also, I felt his price was very reasonable compared to some of the other places that I called. Mr. Hensel answered plenty of questions that I had before I even became a client.”

    Carl

  • Professional, competent, empathetic attorney.

    “My husband and I were forced into a position to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. We were devastated and mortified that we had to choose that route, but Tom eased our stress about the filing and court hearing process, as he thoroughly explained what Chapter 7 entails, as well as exactly what to expect during and after the filing process; he was accurate on each point that he advised us on. Tom also kept in frequent contact with us and responded quickly to any questions or concerns that we had while we worked with him. Tom's expertise and tact was invaluable for us, and we will absolutely recommend him to any of our friends and relatives that may find themselves in similar positions to ours. Thank you, Tom, for your dedicated help during this process.”

    EJO

  • Utmost dedication and professionalism.

    “I chose to work with Tom Hensel after meeting with several big name firms in the area. Tom handled my unique situation with the utmost dedication and professionalism. The personal service I received from him made all the difference in my case. My only regret is that I didn't call him first.”

    Craig