You are not alone. Over 91,000 Kansas City area residents have filed for bankruptcy since 2008. This free guide will help you understand your options, know what to expect, and make informed decisions.
Read the FAQ Check Your EligibilityChapter 7 eliminates most unsecured debts (credit cards, medical bills, personal loans) in about 3-4 months. You must pass a means test based on your income.
Chapter 13 lets you keep your property while repaying debts over 3-5 years. Good for saving a home from foreclosure or a car from repossession. No means test required.
Not sure which chapter fits? Compare them in detail.
Kansas City straddles two states and two federal court districts. Where you live determines where you file -- and the rules differ significantly.
46,548 Chapter 13 cases filed since 2008. Homestead exemption: $15,000. Vehicle exemption: $3,000. The dismissal rate has risen sharply in recent years.
44,949 Chapter 13 cases filed since 2008. Unlimited homestead exemption. Vehicle exemption: $20,000. Significantly better outcomes overall.
The total cost depends on the chapter you file and your specific situation:
Fee waivers are available for Chapter 7 filers whose income is below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines.
Full cost breakdown → | National cost guideChapter 7 filing fees are $338 and Chapter 13 filing fees are $313. Attorney fees in Kansas City typically range from $1,000-$2,000 for Chapter 7 and $2,500-$4,000 for Chapter 13. You will also need to pay for required credit counseling courses, usually $25-$50 total. Full cost breakdown.
Missouri's homestead exemption protects up to $15,000 of equity in your home. If your equity is below that amount, you can keep your home. In Chapter 13, you can keep your home while catching up on missed payments through your repayment plan. Kansas has an unlimited homestead exemption. See all exemptions.
Missouri allows a vehicle exemption of $3,000. If your car equity is below $3,000, you can keep it in Chapter 7. In Chapter 13, you can keep your car and catch up on payments through your plan. You may also be able to use the wildcard exemption for additional protection. Learn about exemptions.
Chapter 7 typically takes 3-4 months from filing to discharge. Chapter 13 requires completing a 3-5 year repayment plan before receiving a discharge. The 341 meeting of creditors usually happens about 30 days after filing. Full timeline.
Chapter 7 eliminates most unsecured debt quickly but requires passing a means test. Chapter 13 allows you to keep property while repaying debts over 3-5 years. Your income, assets, and type of debt determine which chapter is best. Compare chapters.
You must file in the district where you live. Missouri residents file in the Western District of Missouri. Kansas residents file in the District of Kansas. The two districts have different exemptions and different outcomes. See the full comparison.
Use the free 1328(f) screener to check whether a prior discharge affects your eligibility for a new discharge.
Free Discharge Screener