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How Much Does It Cost to File for Bankruptcy in Pennsylvania?

The total cost to file for bankruptcy in Pennsylvania can vary widely based on several factors. These typically include your financial circumstances, whether you have a simple or complex case, administrative fees, and lawyer fees. While you must spend money to file for bankruptcy, it can provide much-needed relief from your financial struggles and give you the opportunity to achieve financial freedom.

With this in mind, bankruptcy filing costs can vary significantly from one case to another, so it’s in your best interest to discuss your case with a Hershey, PA, bankruptcy attorney to get an accurate estimate for your specific case.

What You Should Know About Bankruptcy Filing Costs in Pennsylvania

The following are the most decisive factors that impact bankruptcy filing costs in Pennsylvania:

The Bankruptcy Type

In Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you can keep more property and use any available income to repay creditors as part of your repayment plan. This bankruptcy type is more intensive and time-consuming, making it more costly than a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Although you will need to give up certain properties if you file for Chapter 7, it is less expensive than Chapter 13, and the process of discharging debts is faster.

Administrative Fees

Currently, the petition fee to file for Chapter 7 is $338, while the fee to file for Chapter 13 is $318. Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible to waive your Chapter 7 petition fee. However, bankruptcy courts may also charge miscellaneous administrative fees, including fees related to records and fees for converting a bankruptcy case to another chapter.

You may also be required to pay for debt and credit counseling courses before and after filing for bankruptcy. It’s also crucial to note that while the administrative fees for Chapter 13 are slightly more affordable, the total costs will be higher because you need to come up with a reasonable repayment plan and pay up to 10% commission to the bankruptcy trustee.

Lawyer Fees

While you can file for bankruptcy on your own, being represented by a Hershey, PA bankruptcy lawyer will help ensure you qualify for the bankruptcy chapter you’re filing and make the process smoother. Keep in mind that bankruptcy is a serious legal process requiring tons of paperwork and comes with significant and long-term financial, tax, and legal consequences. That’s why legal fees will depend on the amount of work required and the bankruptcy type.

In general, you can expect to pay up to $2,000 for lawyer fees if you’re filing for Chapter 7 and between $3,000 and $5,000 if you’re filing for Chapter 13. You should also know that courts require bankruptcy attorneys to charge a fee commensurate to their experience and the legal work needed for your case.

Learn More About Debt Relief From Our Experienced Hershey, PA, Bankruptcy Lawyer

At Audi Law PLLC, our Hershey, PA bankruptcy attorney, is here to guide you on the way to financial stability with ease. We offer initial case reviews so you can learn more about the bankruptcy process and your specific situation. Complete our online contact form or call 717-707-5611 to arrange your appointment with our Hershey, PA, bankruptcy lawyer today.