Ohio Means Test for Bankruptcy
In order to file a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you must pass a “means” test. This test applies to high income filers, so if your income is less than the Ohio average household (which takes into account household size) you are exempt from the test and may file Chapter 7.
If your income is above the average household income in Ohio, a more detailed analysis will have to be undertaken. There are a number of deductions in this analysis that may allow you to “get under” the mandated limits – but if you can’t, you may be required to file a Chapter 13 case and make monthly payments to your creditors. You might be able to side step the means test if your debts are not consumer debts but primarily related to a business. You may also avoid the means test if you are a disabled veteran who incurred debt on active duty.