The Means Test & Florida Chapter 7 Income Limits

To qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Florida, you must pass the Means Test, which compares your income to Florida’s median income levels. The purpose of the Means Test is to make sure individuals with sufficient disposable income to repay creditors through a Chapter 13 repayment plan do not file for Chapter 7 instead.

---

Step 1: Compare Your Income to Florida’s Median Income

Florida’s income limits (updated periodically) depend on household size. If your income is below the median for your household size, you typically qualify automatically.

---

Step 2: If You’re Above the Limit, You May Still Qualify

Many Orlando and Winter Park residents qualify even if their income is over the median because the Means Test allows certain deductions, which may include:

• Mortgage or rent

• Car payments

• Childcare

• Health insurance

• Taxes

• Necessary medical expenses

• Certain secured debts

A bankruptcy attorney can run the Means Test using your exact numbers. Also, if your debt is not primarily consumer debt, you do not have to "pass" the Means Test to file Chapter 7.

---

Why Income Limits Matter

Florida’s Means Test ensures Chapter 7 is used by people who genuinely cannot repay their debts. It is meant to ensure that individuals who have sufficient disposable income file Chapter 13 or 11 instead of Chapter 7.

But because the deductions are complex, many people incorrectly assume they “make too much” when they may actually qualify, once the proper deductions are made, and after taking into account whether the debt is primarily consumer debt or business debt, and the size of the family living in the household.

---

Wondering Whether You Qualify for Chapter 7 in Florida?

We can analyze your income and expenses to determine whether Chapter 7 is available to you under the means test, or whether other options may be a better fit for you.

👉 Book a confidential consultation at calendly.com/melissayoungman or using the button below.

Book Now