Motion to Convert Bankruptcy -- Chapter 7 to 13 or 13 to 7

Guide to converting between bankruptcy chapters. When to convert from Chapter 7 to 13 or 13 to 7, how to file a motion, and what happens to your case.

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Converting Between Bankruptcy Chapters

You can convert your bankruptcy case from one chapter to another in most situations:

ConversionRight or PermissionKey Considerations
Ch. 7 to Ch. 13Right (one-time)Must meet Ch. 13 eligibility (regular income, debt limits)
Ch. 13 to Ch. 7Right (one-time)Must pass means test; may lose property already surrendered in plan
Ch. 11 to Ch. 7Court approval neededUsually granted when reorganization fails
Ch. 7 to Ch. 11Court approval neededRare for individuals

Conversion does not create a new case -- it changes the chapter of the existing case. Your original filing date remains the same.

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