What Is the Filing Fee for Chapter 13 Bankruptcy? A 2025 Cost Breakdown

 

If you’re considering filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, one of the first things you’ll want to know is: “How much does it cost to file?” In this article, we’ll break down the Chapter 13 filing fee, explain how attorney fees work, and look specifically at how things are handled in states like Illinois.

📄 Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Filing Fee: $313

As of 2025, the filing fee for Chapter 13 bankruptcy is $313. This fee is paid to the Clerk of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court when you file your case. It’s a standardized fee set by the federal court system and applies nationwide.

⚖️ Attorney’s Fees Are Extra

The $313 fee does not include attorney’s fees. Most people filing for Chapter 13 hire an attorney, which adds to the cost. But don’t worry—there’s good news: Many jurisdictions use a flat-fee model that makes these legal costs easier to manage.

💵 Flat Attorney Fees in Some Areas

In several districts, including Illinois, attorney fees are court-approved flat fees, meaning you won’t be charged hourly for every call or document. Instead, you pay one set amount—usually through your repayment plan.

🔍 Example: Illinois Chapter 13 Flat Fee

In Illinois, bankruptcy judges have approved a flat attorney fee of $4,500 for Chapter 13 cases. This fee is:

• Built into your repayment plan
• Paid over the course of 3 to 5 years
• Covers most legal services from start to finish

Here’s what that $4,500 typically includes:

✅ Filing and preparing your bankruptcy petition
✅ Representation at the 341 Meeting of Creditors
✅ Plan modifications
✅ Responding to objections and court requests
✅ Legal advice throughout your case

No surprise billing—just one flat cost, spread over time.

💡 Why the Flat Fee Model Helps

The flat fee setup offers a lot of peace of mind:

🧾 Predictable costs
📅 Payments built into your monthly plan
🛡️ Legal support throughout the entire bankruptcy

It’s a system designed to make bankruptcy more accessible and less stressful.

🧠 Final Thoughts

To file Chapter 13, you’ll pay a $313 filing fee up front, plus any attorney’s fees—which, in places like Illinois, are often $4,500 paid over time. While that may seem like a lot, these fees cover years of legal protection and help you get on track financially.

If you’re drowning in debt and wondering if Chapter 13 is the right move, reach out to a qualified bankruptcy attorney. It could be the first step toward a fresh financial start. ✨