📅 2026 Update: Changes to Louisiana Bankruptcy Law

Since the original article on Louisiana bankruptcy, there have been significant updates regarding filing fees and other regulations. These changes reflect adjustments made in 2024 to 2026 that affect individuals considering bankruptcy. The earlier article continues further down the page, providing foundational information on the topic.

💰 Bankruptcy Filing Fees

As of December 1, 2023, the Chapter 7 filing fee increased to $338. The Chapter 11 fee also rose, now standing at $1,738. These fees are applicable nationwide and can impact how individuals prepare for bankruptcy.

⏳ Processing Times

The processing time for Chapter 7 bankruptcy remains relatively quick. Discharge is typically granted within three to six months after filing. In contrast, Chapter 13 plans can last from three to five years, depending on the debtor's income and debt levels.

📜 Bankruptcy Forms and Steps

Official bankruptcy forms are accessible on the U.S. Courts website. Filing usually involves completing a bankruptcy petition, attending a 341 meeting of creditors, and taking a financial management course.

Understanding these steps helps streamline the process.

📅 Deadlines and Eligibility

The means test is still required to determine eligibility for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. It assesses income and expenses to decide if a debtor can file. Additionally, the 341 meeting must be attended, which is typically set about a month after filing.

📌 Key Points to Remember

  • 💵 Chapter 7 fees are now $338; Chapter 11 fees are $1,738.
  • ⏰ Chapter 7 discharges take three to six months; Chapter 13 plans last three to five years.
  • 📄 Official forms are available online for easy access.
  • 📅 The means test is essential for Chapter 7 eligibility.
  • 👥 Attend the 341 meeting within a month after filing.

💡 Tips for Navigating Bankruptcy

Consider reviewing the specifics of your situation with your attorney. This ensures that your unique financial circumstances are addressed correctly.

📝 Complete Required Forms

Ensure that all bankruptcy forms are filled out accurately. Missing or incorrect information can lead to delays in processing your case.

⏰ Pay Attention to Deadlines

Be mindful of all deadlines, especially regarding the means test and the 341 meeting. Missing these dates can result in case dismissal, so staying organized is crucial.

💳 Understand Payment Methods

When filing, note that personal checks and credit cards are generally not accepted. Payments must be made using methods like money orders or cashier's checks.

📚 Take Required Courses

Before discharge, debtors must complete a financial management course. This step is essential for understanding money management and preventing future financial issues.

💡 Explore Free Assistance Options

Look into legal aid organizations that provide free or low-cost bankruptcy assistance. These resources can help you navigate the process without incurring additional costs.

🏆 Services Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

This section highlights services related to bankruptcy that may be useful for those seeking help. These services have been evaluated based on Trustpilot data as of October 2026. Ratings can fluctuate, and star ratings represent only part of the picture; unhappy customers often share more feedback, which can influence scores.

🥇 1. LawDepot

LawDepot has been rated 4.0. It is known for its legal document preparation and offers affordable legal forms. However, some users mention limited customer support and occasional document errors, which could impact the filing process.

🥈 2. National Debt Relief

National Debt Relief holds a 4.5 rating. It specializes in debt relief services and consumer financial assistance. While many reviewers appreciate the help they receive, some have reported unexpected fee deductions and administrative charges, which may affect their overall experience.

🆓 Free Government and Nonprofit Help

Several legal aid organizations offer free or low-cost assistance based on state availability. The U.S. Trustee Program also provides resources and information on bankruptcy procedures, making these options valuable for those needing guidance.

🔎 What to Compare When Choosing Services

  • 🏅 Trustpilot ratings and reviews to gauge customer satisfaction.
  • 💰 Fees and costs associated with their services.
  • 🌐 Availability of free resources or assistance.
  • 📞 Customer support options for addressing concerns.
  • 📝 Range of services offered related to bankruptcy.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What is the means test?

The means test determines whether an individual is eligible to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy based on their income and expenses. It assesses if the debtor's income exceeds the state median.

📅 How long does bankruptcy stay on my credit report?

Bankruptcy can remain on credit reports for up to 10 years. Its impact on credit scores varies, but it usually affects the ability to secure new credit during that time.

🏠 Can I keep my home in bankruptcy?

Whether you can keep your home depends on the state's homestead exemption laws. These laws vary, so it's important to check local regulations.

🚪 What happens to my debts after bankruptcy?

Most debts are discharged after bankruptcy, meaning you are no longer legally obligated to pay them. However, some debts, like student loans or child support, may not be dischargeable.

📝 What is the 341 meeting of creditors?

The 341 meeting allows creditors to ask questions about your financial situation. It typically occurs about a month after filing for bankruptcy.

📈 How can I rebuild my credit after bankruptcy?

Rebuilding credit after bankruptcy is possible. Consider using secured credit cards and ensuring timely bill payments to improve your credit score.

⚖️ Recent Court Rulings in Bankruptcy Cases

Recent court rulings have provided important insights into bankruptcy proceedings and their implications. These decisions often clarify aspects of bankruptcy law and can affect how cases are handled in the future.

Explore more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update






 



A Short Introduction to Louisiana State Bankruptcy Law





Before Filing for Bankruptcy

Louisiana Bankruptcy


 



Only businesses are required to hire legal representation before filing for bankruptcy, but it is recommended that even private individuals do so in order to minimize the potential mistakes in their filings and to maximize the potential benefits. If you cannot afford a Louisiana bankruptcy lawyer, then a non-profit legal service may be able to assist you at little or no charge.  Check this page for a list of different pro bono programs.



 



A requirement is made of private individuals that they attend some credit counseling no earlier than 180 days before they file for Louisiana bankruptcy. This is to make sure that bankruptcy is in the best interest for all filing for it. To get a list of Justice Department-approved credit counselors, visit the Justice Department’s site.



 



Filing for Bankruptcy



 



There are three different branches to the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Louisiana, Eastern based in New Orleans, Middle based in Baton Rouge, and Western with branches in Alexandria, Lafayette, and Shreveport. Some additional filing may be able to be done by mail. 



 



Find local forms at their respective court’s website, and national forms here: 



 



Filling out these forms will be the most complex part of filing for Louisiana bankruptcy. Make sure you know which type of bankruptcy you wish to file for before you start filling them out, as different forms are unique to different bankruptcy chapters.



 



Also, don’t forget that when you file for bankruptcy, you will be asked to pay a fee. That fee can be $281 for Chapter 13 Louisiana bankruptcy, or $306 for Chapter 7, or as much as $1046 for Chapter 11. Continue reading to find out more about these different Chapters and their special benefits. 



 



Corporate Louisiana Bankruptcy



 



When greater and greater business debts have to be incurred to merely pay off earlier business debts, something has got to give, and usually this realization leads to filing for corporate Louisiana bankruptcy. Here are the different opportunities the law affords filers:



 



• Chapter 11 Louisiana Bankruptcy: This type of Louisiana bankruptcy gives businesses a chance to restructure their operations in order to become more profitable. Debt payments are temporarily suspended while this restructuring occurs and a new debt payment plan is created, one which will give businesses a new chance to become competitive.



 



• Chapter 7 Louisiana Bankruptcy: Corporate Chapter 7 Louisiana bankruptcy is intended only to be used by businesses whose leaders no longer believe they can be competitive. Its procedures greatly harm operations because the court takes possession of assets and capital, which are then liquified to pay off creditors. Any debt not paid remains owed, so companies seldom resurface afterward.



 



Personal Louisiana Bankruptcy



 



Personal Louisiana bankruptcy may provide individuals suffering from severe credit problems significant relief, and if you’d like to utilize it, you should realize its different forms:



 



• Chapter 7 Louisiana Bankruptcy: This operates similarly to Corporate Chapter 7 Louisiana bankruptcy, with the court seizing assets which will later be liquidated for creditor payment, but it is much more appealing for individuals than businesses. For one thing, individuals can own many fewer assets and thus are liable to lose less. For another, all debt which was incurred without collateral, such as credit card debt, will be erased after Chapter 7 hearings, no matter the results of liquidation sales. 



 



• Chapter 13 Louisiana Bankruptcy: Because of Chapter 7’s appeal for individuals, it is the most popular individual bankruptcy option. However, some individuals whose incomes are above the Louisiana Mean Income may not be eligible to take part. They need to file for Chapter 13 Louisiana bankruptcy and create a debt payment plan that relies on their discretionary income to pay off creditors over three to five years.



 



The Tax Debt Dilemma



 



The one area in which Louisiana bankruptcy probably can’t help you is tax debt. Since most tax debt is not covered by Louisiana state bankruptcy law, you’re better off trying to reach a deal with the IRS than dissolve the debt using bankruptcy. Talk to a Louisiana bankruptcy lawyer to better understand the intricacies of the situation.