How much is the chapter 7 filing fee and when must it be paid?

The filing fee is $299 for either a single or a joint case. If a debtor is unable to pay the filing fee when the case is filed and earns less than 150% of the poverty level, the filing fee may be waived. Otherwise, it may be paid in installments, with the final installment due within 120 days. The period for payment may later be extended to 180 days by the court, if there is a valid reason for doing so. If the filing fee is not paid, the case will be dismissed and the debtor will not receive a discharge. The fee charged by the debtor's attorney for handling the chapter 7 case is in addition to the filing fee.