Means Test

A schedule, math included

Can do it pro se (for self)

First Method
Take current monthly income and subtract both of the following:
 * 1) Certain allowed expenses, in amounts set by the IRS
 * 2) * Can’t subtract what debtor actually spends for transportation, food, clothing, and so on; instead must use limits imposed by IRS, which may be lower than the cost of living in your area
 * 3) * To justify larger allowed expenses than those allowed by the IRS, the debtor has to demonstrate specific circumstances that justify the additional expenses for which there is no reasonable alternative
 * 4) Monthly payments you will have to make on secured and priority debts
 * 5) * Priority debts = child support, alimony, taxes, wages owed to employees

Another Method
If the amount in Step 2 is greater than Step 3, abuse is presumed, and debtor may not file a Chapter 7
 * 1) Reduce a debtor’s current monthly income by all allowable monthly deductions to get a net monthly income
 * 2) Multiply the net monthly income by 60 (months)
 * 3) Compare that figure to the lesser of:
 * 4) 25% of debtor’s nonpriority unsecured claims or $7,425, whichever is greater, OR
 * 5) $12,425

Credit Counseling Requirement – the debtor must file a certificate from the credit counseling agency that describes the services provided to debtor and any debt repayment plan developed by agency