The new bankruptcy law brings some unwelcome changes for those who are considering bankruptcy. Some filers with higher incomes won't be allowed to use Chapter 7, but will instead have to repay some of their debt under Chapter 13. All debtors will have to get credit counseling before they can file a bankruptcy case. And, because the law imposes new requirements on lawyers, it may be tougher to find a bankruptcy attorney. Here are some of the changes you should know about.

Restricted Eligibility for Chapter 7

Under the old rules, most filers could choose the type of bankruptcy that seemed best for them -- and most chose Chapter 7 (liquidation) over Chapter 13 (repayment). The new law will prohibit some filers with higher incomes from using Chapter 7.

How High is Your Income?

Under the new rules, the first step in figuring out whether you can file for Chapter 7 is to measure your "current monthly income" against the median income for a household of your size in your state. If your income is less than or equal to the median, you can file for Chapter 7. If it is more than the median, however, you must pass "the means test" -- another requirement of the new law -- in order to file for Chapter 7.

The Means Test

The purpose of the means test is to figure out whether you have enough disposable income, after subtracting certain allowed expenses and required debt payments, to make payments on a Chapter 13 plan. To find out whether you pass the means test, you subtract certain allowed expenses and debt payments from your current monthly income. If the income that's left over after these calculations is below a certain amount, you can file for Chapter 7.

For an online calculator that will do the math for you, see http://www.legalconsumer.com/means-test-calculator/index.php