How Much Does Bankruptcy Cost?
Sep 30, 2025
When you are struggling financially and reviewing debt relief options, it is completely understandable to ask, “How much does it cost to file for bankruptcy?” Whether you are considering a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy or Chapter 13 Bankruptcy, it's important to understand the costs associated with each option. While these expenses may seem daunting at first, they are often more manageable and far less of a burden than overwhelming debt. Let’s review the typical costs of a Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Wisconsin, so you can better understand what to expect.
CHAPTER 7 BANKRUPTCY
Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the most straightforward debt relief option if you are overwhelmed with unsecured debt. It allows you to eliminate debts like credit cards, medical bills, and personal loans, and provides a fresh start financially. To learn more about a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, read our blog “The Process for a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy”.
Chapter 7 Attorney Fees
Attorney fees in Wisconsin for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy typically range from $1,400 to $2,000. Many attorneys charge a flat fee, though some may increase their rates for more complex cases. Some also offer payment plans to make the process more affordable. Most attorneys provide free consultations to review your financial situation and explain their fees in detail.
Chapter 7 Filing Fee
The filing fee for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy case in Wisconsin is $338. This fee is typically included in your attorney fee and paid to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court when your case is filed.
CHAPTER 13 BANKRUPTCY
Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a helpful debt relief option that allows you to reorganize your debts into a manageable 3 to 5 year payment plan. It helps you get current on any past due secured debts, like your mortgage, and can even stop foreclosure. A Chapter 13 can also help with tax debt and reduce or eliminate what you owe on unsecured debts like credit cards and medical bills.
Chapter 13 Plan Payment
Your Chapter 13 plan outlines how you will pay back your creditors based on your income, assets, and the types and amounts of debt you owe. Your attorney will calculate a monthly payment that meets court requirements while staying within your budget. These payments are made to a Bankruptcy Trustee, who then distributes the funds to your creditors according to your court-approved plan. To learn more about how your Chapter 13 plan payment is calculated, check out our blog “Chapter 13 Repayment Plan Explained”.
Chapter 13 Attorney Fee
Attorney fees for Chapter 13 cases are higher than Chapter 7 due to the complexity and length of the bankruptcy case. In Wisconsin, most attorneys charge a flat fee that typically ranges from $5,000 to $6,000. The good news is that most of this fee can be paid through your Chapter 13 plan, so you don’t need to pay the full amount upfront. Your attorney will receive payments over your 3 to 5 year repayment plan, which is managed by the bankruptcy trustee and approved by the court.
Chapter 13 Filing Fee
The filing fee for a Chapter 13 bankruptcy case in Wisconsin is $313. This fee is typically included in your attorney fee and paid to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court when your case is filed.
CREDIT COUNSELING FEE
Whether you file for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you are required to complete two credit counseling courses. The first course must be taken before filing and helps evaluate your financial situation while exploring alternatives to bankruptcy. The second course is completed before your case is discharged and focuses on managing your finances moving forward. These courses typically cost between $20 and $50 and are paid directly to an approved provider.
SATISFACTION OF JUDGMENT FEE
A money judgment is entered when a creditor sues you in state court and wins. While a Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy discharge eliminates the debt, satisfying the judgment requires a separate step. Bankruptcy is handled in federal court and money judgments are entered in state court. To update the state court record, you need to file a Satisfaction of Judgment Due to Bankruptcy along with supporting documents in the county where the judgment was entered. These forms are available on the state court website and can be filed for a $5 fee.
FREE CONSULTATIONS
Bankruptcy can be a powerful tool for regaining control of your finances, but understanding the costs involved is important. An experienced bankruptcy attorney can help you navigate the process, explain your options clearly, and ensure your case is handled efficiently. At Pedersen Law Office, LLC, we understand how stressful being in debt can be; that is why we offer free consultations. We will meet with you personally to help you figure out the best debt relief option for you and help you through the entire process. Our law office serves the communities of Appleton, Neenah, Menasha, Oshkosh, Green Bay and their surrounding areas.
