Chapter 13 Repayment Plan

Understanding plan mechanics under 11 U.S.C. Sections 1322 and 1325

Good Faith -- 1325(a)(3)

The plan must be proposed in good faith. Courts consider the totality of circumstances: Is the debtor making a genuine effort to repay? Is the plan an honest attempt to deal with creditors? Manipulating income, hiding assets, or proposing an unrealistic plan can result in denial.

Best Interest Test -- 1325(a)(4)

Unsecured creditors must receive at least as much as they would receive in a Chapter 7 liquidation. Calculate the value of non-exempt assets -- that is the minimum unsecured creditors must receive through the plan.

Disposable Income -- 1325(b)

If the trustee or an unsecured creditor objects, the plan must commit all projected disposable income for the applicable commitment period. Below-median debtors: 3 years. Above-median debtors: 5 years.

Disposable income = current monthly income minus reasonably necessary expenses. The means test form (Form 122C) calculates this.

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Related Resources

Section 1328 Discharge -- Chapter 13 discharge rules and the superdischarge

Lien Stripping -- How to remove underwater junior liens in Chapter 13

Hardship Discharge -- Section 1328(b) discharge when you cannot complete your plan

Federal Rules Committee

This research supports Suggestion 26-BK-3 to the Advisory Committee on Bankruptcy Rules

Proposing automated Section 1328(f) discharge bar screening in federal bankruptcy courts