The Illinois Statement of Current Monthly Income and Means Test Calculation for Use in Chapter 7 — Post 2005 helps individuals determine their eligibility for filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy based on their current monthly income and expenses. This statement is a crucial component of the bankruptcy process and requires individuals to disclose various financial information. The Illinois means test calculation follows guidelines established under the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005 (BAP CPA). It is designed to identify individuals who have the means to repay their debts in a Chapter 13 bankruptcy rather than seeking complete discharge through Chapter 7. There are two main components of the Illinois Statement of Current Monthly Income and Means Test Calculation: 1. Current Monthly Income: This section includes all sources of income received by the individual over the past six months. It covers wages, salaries, self-employment income, rental income, dividends, unemployment benefits, pensions, and any other regular sources of income. It is essential to accurately report all income to ensure an accurate means test calculation. 2. Means Test Calculation: The means test calculation determines an individual's disposable income, which is the amount available to repay creditors after deducting necessary living expenses. This calculation includes deducting allowed expenses from the individual's monthly income. These expenses include housing, transportation, healthcare, childcare, education, and other reasonable and necessary costs. If an individual's current monthly income falls below the state median income for a household of their size, they automatically qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. However, if their income exceeds the median, additional calculations are performed to determine whether they have enough disposable income to repay a portion of their debts through Chapter 13. It is important to note that the Illinois Statement of Current Monthly Income and Means Test Calculation for Use in Chapter 7 — Post 2005 may have additional variations or specific requirements based on local bankruptcy court rules. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals in Illinois seeking bankruptcy relief to consult with an experienced bankruptcy attorney or carefully review the local court's guidelines to ensure compliance with specific requirements. In summary, the Illinois Statement of Current Monthly Income and Means Test Calculation for Use in Chapter 7 — Post 2005 is a vital tool used in bankruptcy proceedings to assess an individual's eligibility for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. By accurately reporting their current monthly income and deducting reasonable living expenses, individuals can determine if Chapter 7 is a viable option for them to seek a fresh start financially.