Filing Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in Oregon: Local Lawyer Shares A 2026 Checklist
Filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy can feel overwhelming without a clear sense of what the process actually requires. While every case is different, most filers need to complete the same basic steps before a petition can be submitted to the court. The following checklist outlines what to prepare and understand heading into 2026. Confirm Eligibility Through the Means Test Before filing, most individuals must pass a means test, which compares household income to the median income for a family of the same size in their state. Those whose income falls below the median generally qualify for Chapter 7. Those above it may still qualify depending on allowable expense deductions, or may be directed toward a Chapter 13 repayment plan instead. Reviewing income from the past six months, along with recent pay stubs, is a useful first step in determining which chapter applies. Gather Financial Documents Bankruptcy petitions require a full financial picture. Experts from The Law Office of Kim Covington...