Means Test Calculator on LegalConsumer.com

[EmmaPeel007]

I've just used the means test calculator on LegalConsumer.com and it shows that we should be able to file for Chapter 7. There were a few nice surprises in there - like the vehicle operation expenses for Los Angeles ($522) and the vehicle ownership expenses ($489 a car for 2 cars). Also the food, clothing, expense allowance of $1,151 - which is more than I put down on our estimates.

Anyone else use this calculator and found it to be accurate?

[ThreadsSnapping]

It's almost totally accurate. Only difference I found was a $14 difference in healthcare costs. Other than that the figures were exactly what were on my petition.

TS

[EmmaPeel007]

Thanks TS

[thaynes]

I agree. I used that same Means Test and used the figures from it on the form. The only difference I found in it was on Line 32, Telecommunication Expenses. The fillable form I was using was worded slightly different and I had to put less than the LegalConsumer site. But that difference was only $70 or so.

I think it is an excellent test.

[justplaintired]

We did this test when we first talked about BK, before we even knew what it was.

It was pretty accurate. About the same as what our attorney came up with.

[Tromploi]

When I take this test it tells me I have -$320 of disposable income after expenses. However, we are over the median income. At first glance the PL in my atty's office said she didn't think we'd qualify for a 7. I have been assuming I'd be a 13 but am wondering now if we should pursue a 7. We'd like to keep the house and 2 cars, and are not behind on either.

Hmm,,,,should hurry up and get that packet and check in to the atty so he can advise me.

[thaynes]

Some people are getting a chapter 7 when they are $15000 over the median income. I would look at it closely and if you are close I would go for a chapter 7. If worse comes to worse, they will have you file a chapter 13 instead so you really have nothing to lose.

I've heard many lawyers advise their clients for a chptr 13 because they make quite a bit more money that way. I know not all lawyers are like this, but I know two that fit that bill very well.

[ThreadsSnapping]

When I take this test it tells me I have -$320 of disposable income after expenses. However, we are over the median income. At first glance the PL in my atty's office said she didn't think we'd qualify for a 7. I have been assuming I'd be a 13 but am wondering now if we should pursue a 7. We'd like to keep the house and 2 cars, and are not behind on either.

Hmm,,,,should hurry up and get that packet and check in to the atty so he can advise me.

We are about 15K over the median and qalified for a ch 7. We are -229 on the means test and -55 on the sch j. Our 341 is on Monday so we'll see how that goes but the UST has already filed his no presumed abuse statement.

Good luck.

TS

[laurannm]

We are also above-median, and the calculator at legal-consumer was dead on accurate with what my lawyer came up with, with one exception...line 45, estimated administrative expense for a Ch 13. Not 100% how to calculate that line, but legalconsumer came up with a number much higher than our attorney.