The cost of filing for bankruptcy varies, based on several factors, such as what type of bankruptcy you file for, and how complicated your case is.  Filing costs for Chapter 7 are slightly higher than Chapter 13.  Besides filing fees, there will be additional fees, like credit counselling fees and possibly a debt education course. Although the bulk of the bankruptcy cost will be legal service fees, they're usually worth it. Bankruptcy laws are complicated, and both income and property can be unnecessarily lost.  Although bankruptcy attorneys tend to significantly heighten the cost of filing for bankruptcy with their fees, the goal should be to find an attorney who is both affordable for those struggling with debt, while also allowing them to have confidence in their financial future.