What is the minimum payment for bankruptcy?

The term “minimum payment for bankruptcy” can mean different things depending on what kind of bankruptcy you’re filing—Chapter 7 or Chapter 13—and what part of the process you’re asking about. Let’s break it down:

🔹 1. Chapter 7 Bankruptcy (Liquidation)

There is no required debt payment plan in Chapter 7. But you do need to pay some upfront costs, which include:

✅ Minimum Required Costs:

Filing fee: $338
Credit counseling + debtor education: $20–$100 (combined)
Attorney fee (if hiring one): $1,000–$2,500 on average
- Some lawyers offer payment plans before filing, but the full fee must be paid before the case is filed.

🟨 Bottom line: If filing without a lawyer (not recommended), the absolute minimum you could pay is about $358–$438, assuming you qualify for no fee waivers or discounts.

🔹 2. Chapter 13 Bankruptcy (Repayment Plan)

This chapter requires monthly payments to a trustee for 3 to 5 years. The minimum payment depends on:

✅ What Determines Your Monthly Payment?

Your income and necessary living expenses
The type and amount of your debts
Whether you’re trying to catch up on a mortgage or car loan
Any non-exempt property you’re keeping (you must pay creditors at least as much as they’d get in Chapter 7)

⚖️ Typical Monthly Payment Range:

Many people pay $150 to $500/month
Some pay more if they’re keeping a house or car with arrears
There is no fixed “minimum dollar amount”—but your plan must be feasible, meaning you must show you can make the payments

🔹 Waivers & Low-Income Options

Filing fee waivers: Available if your income is below 150% of the federal poverty level and you can’t afford to pay in installments
Legal aid: Some non-profits or pro bono attorneys help for free or at low cost

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Andres Montejo Law

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✅ Summary Table

Type	Minimum Upfront Cost	Monthly Payment Required?
Chapter 7	~$358–$2,500+	❌ No (debts discharged)
Chapter 13	~$313+ (fee can be paid in plan)	✅ Yes (court-approved plan)

Let me know your income and debt situation, and I can estimate what your minimum monthly Chapter 13 payment might be—or if Chapter 7 would be the better option for you.