DC And Maryland Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Attorneys
Many hardworking people in Maryland and D.C. never imagined needing bankruptcy protection until they started receiving collection calls, facing wage garnishment and enduring sleepless nights. At The Ingram Firm, L.L.C., our 25 years of bankruptcy law experience show us that financial hardship can happen to anyone, even those who plan carefully.
For many of our clients in D.C., Columbia, Largo and the Baltimore area, Chapter 7 bankruptcy provides the most direct route to financial freedom. If mounting debt weighs you down, we stand ready to deliver clear guidance and help you understand your options.
What Is Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?
Chapter 7 bankruptcy, often called “fresh start” bankruptcy, erases most unsecured debts like credit card balances and medical bills. While debt settlement involves negotiating with your creditors to reduce the amount you owe, Chapter 7 bankruptcy works differently. Its goal is to discharge all qualifying debts entirely, allowing you to move forward on more stable financial ground.
Who Qualifies For Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?
To determine eligibility for Chapter 7 bankruptcy protection, you generally must meet the following criteria:
- Your income must fall below Maryland’s median income for your household size, or you must pass the detailed means test calculation.
- You have not received a Chapter 7 bankruptcy discharge in the last eight years.
- You have not received a discharge in a Chapter 13 bankruptcy case that was filed within the last six years.
- You must complete credit counseling from an approved agency within 180 days before filing.
- You must also complete a debtor education course after filing your bankruptcy petition.
Whether you are a professional struggling with medical bills or a homeowner worried about foreclosure, we are here to provide clarity. As your dedicated bankruptcy lawyers in Columbia, we will carefully review your finances and debts to determine whether Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the right path for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chapter 7 Bankruptcy In Maryland
Individuals and families in Maryland and Washington, D.C., often want clear answers before deciding whether to move forward with Chapter 7 bankruptcy protection. Below are responses to some of the most common concerns we hear.
How do I qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Maryland in 2026?
Qualification begins with the Maryland means test. This formula compares your household’s gross income to the state’s median income levels based on family size. For 2026, the approximate annual median figures are:
- Around $84,699 for a one-person household
- About $111,673 for two people
- Approximately $132,464 for three people
- Close to $161,913 for four people
If your income falls below the applicable threshold, you will generally satisfy the initial requirement. If it is higher, you may still qualify after deducting certain allowable expenses such as mortgage payments, property taxes, health insurance premiums and other necessary living costs. A careful review of income and expenses is essential to determine eligibility.
What property can I keep in a Maryland Chapter 7 filing?
Maryland is an “opt-out” state, meaning you must use Maryland’s exemption laws rather than federal exemptions. To claim these protections, you must have lived in Maryland for at least two years before filing.
Common exemptions include:
- Up to $25,150 in equity in your primary residence
- A $6,000 wildcard exemption that can apply to cash or other property
- Up to $5,000 in vehicle equity
- Limited protection for tools used in your occupation and basic household goods
- Full protection for most qualified retirement accounts, such as 401(k)s and IRAs
These exemptions often allow individuals to retain essential property while completing a Chapter 7 liquidation.
Will Chapter 7 wipe out all my debts?
Chapter 7 is particularly effective at eliminating unsecured debts. It commonly discharges credit card balances, medical bills, personal loans, payday loans and certain past-due utility accounts.
However, some obligations typically remain. Recent tax debts, child support, alimony, most student loans, and court-ordered fines or restitution are generally not discharged. Chapter 7 liquidation does not remove domestic support obligations such as alimony or child support, which are treated as priority debts under federal law.
Understanding what Chapter 7 can and cannot eliminate allows you to make informed decisions about your financial future, and a personalized consultation can clarify how these rules apply to your specific circumstances.
Schedule Your Free, Confidential Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Consultation With Our Team
You do not have to make the final decision to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy today, but you can get the answers you need. Call our office at 410-541-1570 or fill out this online contact form to schedule a free appointment with one of our experienced lawyers. This consultation is a safe and confidential space to discuss your situation without pressure or judgment.