
Means Test Attorneys in Los Angeles
Determining Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Eligibility
Since the October 2005 bankruptcy law changes were passed, individuals wishing to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy must pass the means test. This test is designed to determine if a person has enough disposable income to repay any of his or her debts. It is a complex formula that takes your income, expenses, and total amount of debt into consideration.
At RHM LAW LLP, our Los Angeles bankruptcy attorneys have a detailed understanding of the means test. We have helped thousands of people in Los Angeles and other Southern California communities obtain debt relief through Chapter 7 bankruptcy, allowing them to rebuild their financial future on more solid footing.
Call us at (213) 344-0043 to arrange a 30-minute complimentary consultation and learn if you pass the means test.
What Is the California Means Test?
The means test is an attempt to limit Chapter 7 bankruptcy to those who are truly unable to pay their unsecured debt. It was created to encourage those who are able to repay even a small portion of their debt to file Chapter 13 bankruptcy, the debt reorganization plan.
The first part of the means test compares your monthly gross income for the past six months to the median income in California. If your income is less than the average, you probably qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. If it exceeds the median, deductions for housing, child care, medical expenses, and other costs are applied to determine a monthly net income figure.
Not being keenly aware of the means test could cost you hundreds of dollars each month. An experienced bankruptcy lawyer can help you navigate this test and save you money.
What is the Alternative?
If you make too much money to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy, all is not lost. You may file Chapter 13 instead. With Chapter 13 bankruptcy, your unsecured debt is rolled into one monthly payment, determined by your ability to pay, which you make over a period of three to five years. After the designated time is over, all remaining unsecured debt is discharged. One benefit of this type of bankruptcy is that you can remove junior liens, including second and third mortgages.
Experienced Bankruptcy Lawyers Helping You Get a Fresh Start
Calculating the California means test is complex. One simple mistake could result in the dismissal of your bankruptcy petition. Protect yourself by speaking with our bankruptcy lawyers in Los Angeles.
Contact us today to schedule a 30-minute complimentary consultation and discuss your eligibility for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

RHM LAW LLP
Meet Our Los Angeles Bankruptcy Specialists
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M. Jonathan Hayes Senior Counsel
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Matt D. Resnik | Partner Partner
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Roksana D. Moradi-Brovia | Partner Partner
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Russell J. Stong III | Associate Attorney Senior Associate Attorney, Los Angeles Office
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W. Sloan Youkstetter | Associate Attorney Senior Associate Attorney, Los Angeles Office
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David M. Kritzer Senior Associate Attorney, Encino Office

Client Reviews
What Clients Say About Working With Us
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I worked with David Kritzer at this firm, and he was great. He negotiated on my behalf with a credit card company and was able to settle with them for much lower than I could have on my own thanks to his knowledge and expertise in the field. If you have a debtor on your back go to him to get it taken care of.- Kelly S.
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Dear Mr. Resnik: We wanted to thank you for your professional handling of our loan modification with GMAC mortgage. We are very happy that you were able to accomplish the modification of our loan in such a short period of time. Thank you again for your professional service.
- W and B Mejia -
Matt is the best bankruptcy attorney in Sherman Oaks. I consulted with Matt over a chapter 7 bankruptcy. I had issues with overwhelming credit card debt after Chase increased it's APR for no reason. It set off a chain of events that were really hurting me. He made me feel like I had options, all was not lost, and I could rebuild my credit after the 7. I had some concerns about a piece of property I was having issues with and Matt also turned out to be a real estate lawyer as well! I recommend this office to anyone who is unsure of their financial situation. It doesn't hurt to find out your options.- Max B.
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I needed a bankruptcy attorney in Sherman Oaks and found Matt Resnik on Google. He has one of the best-reviewed bankruptcy law firms on Yelp so I decided to check it out his law firm for myself. I quickly found out that they are foreclosure specialists and they could help me with my issue. They made the process very easy for me and laid out my options for me. I cannot thank them enough for helping save my home. I would recommend them for anyone that is thinking about filing for bankruptcy or foreclosure on their home. They are the best bankruptcy law firm in Sherman Oaks.- Joseph R.
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Was very impressed with the comprehensive professionalism of the firm, especially Matthew Resnik... I had suffered through the incompetence of two previous bk lawyers not to mention fees far greater than anticipated, without resolution. Having never gone through bk before, I did not realize how difficult it could be...then, my case was turned over to Mr. Resnik...almost immediately there was a marked positive difference. Where there was little to no communication, all of a sudden I am getting updates...regularly. Further, my case was finally discharged...yet, Mr. Resnik continues to communicate, offer assistance...and, has NEVER asked for additional fees, which I am sure he could have justified...much unlike the two previous attorneys with which I was dealing. I have no reservations, whatsoever, referring and recommending Matthew Resnik for any and all business or personal bk issues...or, other wise. I have no doubt that he will be transparent on helping you regardless of the problem. Good guy.. good firm... a wonderful experience!
- G.L -
Fantastic office! I want to thank Matt for taking his time with me and sincere in his assistance. He spent over an hour with me for free during our initial consult. I left knowing exactly what's needed. He not only saved my house but also got rid of all my debt. They are not your typical attorneys and their creativity really allowed me to do things that other attorneys never mentioned in previous consults. Affordable and Outstanding firm and thank you for all you have done! My family thanks you!- David K.
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This is to thank you for the exceptional work of you and your fine staff. In managing my bankruptcy and loan modification, a nearly five-year effort, your performance was stellar. I never felt alone or adrift, key concerns in those circumstances. The outcome was outstanding. As the dank blanket of economic uncertainty continues to depress the hopes of many of us, I keep your business cards and number available for others. Without hyperbole, I can attest that you are present a beacon. Thank you so much.- K.C.
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Matt and his team are the best!! They were thorough, extremely knowledgeable, wonderful to deal with, thoughtful, and really helped guide me through what was one of the toughest times in my life. I never felt judged or looked down on. They were efficient and really were lifesavers during this tough time. I can not recommend them highly enough!!!!- Rusty H.
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I worked with Matt and his team for about a year to get through the paperwork shuffle and my personal experience was nothing short of fantastic. Legal situations have a tendency to get hairy, but Matt and his staff conducted themselves with professionalism throughout the whole ordeal. To keep it short, let's just say he under-promised and over-delivered. Rarely would I ever say this about an attorney, but overall he was just a great guy. I would not hesitate to have him on my side of the courtroom again. World market is right across the street from his office and I even decided to get his staff a thank you / holiday gift card. World market has excellent craft beer BTW, try the Einstock White Ale. They also validate parking. That just shows this isn't a fake review.- Dean C.

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A Summary of Bankruptcy Law: Third Edition
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Summary of Chapter 13