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Bankruptcy & Financial Hardship

Bankruptcy Basics: Chapters 7 and 13

Understand the high-level difference between liquidation and repayment-plan cases before seeking individualized advice.

Last reviewed: 2026-07-22· 4 min read

Bankruptcy is a federal court process

Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 have different eligibility, property, payment, timing, and discharge consequences. Filing also creates duties and deadlines. FairFiles Hub does not determine eligibility or prepare a bankruptcy petition.

Chapter 7 at a high level

Chapter 7 generally involves administration of nonexempt assets by a trustee and does not use the same repayment-plan structure as Chapter 13. Exemptions, liens, prior cases, income, transfers, and debt type can materially change the result.

Chapter 13 at a high level

Chapter 13 generally permits an eligible individual with regular income to propose a court-supervised repayment plan, commonly lasting three to five years. Confirmation and completion have detailed statutory requirements.

Get individualized advice

Use official court materials and consult a qualified bankruptcy attorney or approved legal-aid provider before filing or transferring property.

Official sources

Key law references

  • Title 11, United States Code

Educational Use Only

This article explains rights in plain language and is not legal advice for your specific situation. State laws vary; confirm current rules with official sources or a qualified attorney in your jurisdiction.