Michigan Bankruptcy Laws

Federal filing fee for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Fee waivers or installment payments available.

Federal filing fee for Chapter 13 bankruptcy.

You must complete credit counseling from an approved agency within 180 days before filing and a debtor education course before discharge.

You must have been domiciled in Michigan for at least 730 days (2 years) before filing to use Michigan exemptions. Otherwise, your prior state's exemptions may apply. 91 days of residency required for venue.

Protects up to $46,125 in equity in your primary residence. Increased to $69,200 if the debtor is age 65 or older or disabled.

Protects up to $4,250 in equity in one motor vehicle.

Retirement accounts including 401(k)s, IRAs, and pensions are fully exempt.

Protects up to $4,625 in household goods, furnishings, and personal property.

Michigan allows bankruptcy filers to choose federal exemptions. The federal homestead exemption (approximately $27,900) may be combined with a larger wildcard, which can be preferable in some situations.