Filing for bankruptcy in New York in 2026 usually costs between $400 and $4,000, depending on whether you file under Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 and whether you work with an attorney. That total comes from court filing fees, required credit counseling courses, and legal fees, which vary based on your income, assets, and the issues involved in your case. When you are already dealing with debt pressure, knowing these costs upfront helps you decide what option fits your situation and helps you avoid delays once the process starts.
What Makes Up the Cost of Filing Bankruptcy in New York?
Bankruptcy costs are not a single flat fee. Instead, they are made up of several required and optional expenses.
Most filers can expect to pay for:
- Federal court filing fees
- Mandatory credit counseling and debtor education courses
- Attorney fees, if you choose legal representation
Each of these plays a different role in the process, and skipping required steps can delay or derail your case.
Bankruptcy Court Filing Fees in 2026
Court filing fees are set at the federal level and apply statewide in New York.
As of 2026, the standard fees are:
- Chapter 7 bankruptcy: $338
- Chapter 13 bankruptcy: $313
These fees are paid to the bankruptcy court, not to your attorney. In some situations, the court may allow installment payments. Fee waivers are also possible in Chapter 7 cases if your income is very low, but approval is not automatic.
Required Credit Counseling and Debtor Education Costs
Before filing, you must complete a credit counseling course from an approved provider. After filing, you must complete a debtor education course to receive a discharge.
Most providers charge $10 to $50 per course. Some agencies offer reduced or no-fee options based on income, but the counseling itself is still required and must be completed through an approved provider.
Attorney Fees for Bankruptcy in New York
Attorney fees are usually the largest part of the total cost, but they also provide meaningful guidance when your finances are complex or creditors are actively pursuing collection.
Typical attorney fees in New York range from:
- $1,500 to $3,000 for Chapter 7
- $3,000 to $4,500 for Chapter 13
Chapter 13 fees are higher because the repayment plan typically lasts three to five years and involves ongoing court oversight, repayment plans, and possible modifications.
When we work with clients, we focus on clear pricing so you understand what is included and what is not before you move forward.
Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13, Cost Differences That Matter
The type of bankruptcy you file directly affects the total cost.
Chapter 7 is usually less expensive because it moves quickly and wipes out qualifying unsecured debt without a repayment plan. Most cases close within a few months.
Chapter 13 costs more because it requires:
- A court-approved repayment plan
- Ongoing communication with the trustee
- Continued legal involvement over several years
While Chapter 13 has higher upfront and long-term costs, it can allow you to catch up on mortgage arrears, car loans, or tax debt that Chapter 7 cannot address.
Can You File Bankruptcy Without a Lawyer to Save Money?
You can file bankruptcy without an attorney, often called filing “pro se.” While this may reduce legal fees, it increases the risk of mistakes that can cost you more later.
Common problems we see in pro se cases include:
- Missed exemptions that lead to asset loss
- Incomplete or inaccurate schedules
- Dismissed cases that require refiling and paying fees again
For many people, legal guidance helps prevent these outcomes and keeps the process on track.
Are There Ways to Reduce the Cost of Bankruptcy?
In some situations, costs can be reduced, though they cannot be eliminated entirely.
You may be able to:
- Request a filing fee waiver in Chapter 7
- Pay court fees in installments
- Use low-cost or no-fee credit counseling programs
We review these options early so you can decide what makes sense for your situation.
Planning for Bankruptcy Costs in 2026
Bankruptcy is often a financial reset, but it still requires upfront planning. Knowing the likely cost helps you compare options and avoid delays caused by incomplete filings or missed payments. Even if money is tight, there are usually ways to structure payments or timing so you can decide how and when to file.
Putting Bankruptcy Costs Into Perspective
If you are considering bankruptcy in New York, understanding the cost is only the first step. We help clients evaluate whether Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 fits their goals and explain fees clearly from the start. Contact Robert H. Solomon, PC, to schedule a consultation and get straightforward guidance on your next move.