Chapter 7 Means Test Calculator
Most people considering Chapter 7 in Maryland, Virginia, or Washington DC start here. Choose where you plan to file to reach the right calculator and review the current filing limits for that jurisdiction.
Start with the page that matches where you plan to file
Each jurisdiction has its own calculator page, current income limits, and local bankruptcy resources.
Maryland Means Test Calculator
For Maryland filers comparing household income against the current Chapter 7 limit.
Virginia Means Test Calculator
For Virginia filers who want the current income limits and local filing guidance.
Washington DC Means Test Calculator
For Washington DC filers checking the current filing limit and next-step options.
Looking for jurisdiction-specific bankruptcy practice information? See our Washington DC, Maryland, or Virginia bankruptcy attorney pages.
Chapter 7 means test income limits by jurisdiction
U.S. Trustee Program median-income figures applied to cases filed on or after April 1, 2026.
| Household Size | Maryland | Virginia | Washington DC |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $86,928 | $78,491 | $85,391 |
| 2 people | $114,611 | $101,171 | $161,397 |
| 3 people | $135,949 | $123,159 | $161,397 |
| 4 people | $166,173 | $144,826 | $166,598 |
Add $11,100 for each person above 4. Source: U.S. Trustee Program, effective April 1, 2026.
How the Chapter 7 means test works
Bankruptcy law calls the first figure current monthly income. For most filers, it is the average income received during the six full calendar months before filing, annualized—not a current paycheck or last year's tax return. It excludes Social Security benefits and qualifying military or VA payments connected to disability, combat-related injury, or death, and includes regular amounts others pay toward household expenses.
This ordinary income screen addresses cases in which debts are primarily consumer debts. Special rules may remove qualifying disabled veterans and some reservists or National Guard members from this screen, although official bankruptcy forms may still be required.
Choose where you plan to file
Income limits differ in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC, so start with the jurisdiction that matches your expected filing location.
Use the six-month average
Each jurisdiction page lets you choose the range containing that monthly average and flags when a closer review is needed.
Review the next step with counsel
The calculator is a first pass. A bankruptcy attorney can help you evaluate eligibility, timing, and alternatives such as Chapter 13.
Connect eligibility, assets, and collections
These topics usually overlap. Chapter choice, plan affordability, property protection, and active collections all need to be checked together.
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Review wage rulesNeed help choosing the right next step?
Use the jurisdiction pages for local screening, then talk with counsel if you want help evaluating eligibility, timing, or alternatives. Figures are from the U.S. Trustee Program, effective April 1, 2026.
Start with the jurisdiction page
Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC each have their own calculator page with local income limits and filing resources.
Talk with a bankruptcy attorney
If you are unsure where to file or how the means test applies to your case, a lawyer can help you sort through the facts quickly.