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Alaska Chapter 7 Means Test: Do You Qualify?

2026 median income limits for Alaska by household size. Free calculator and filing guide.

Important: This page provides educational information about the Chapter 7 means test in Alaska. Median income data is approximate, based on Census Bureau / DOJ figures effective November 2025. Figures are updated every April and November. Verify current amounts at the DOJ Means Testing page. This is not legal advice.

Alaska Median Income Thresholds (2025-2026)

The table below shows the approximate annual and monthly income thresholds for Alaska by household size. If your annualized income (6-month average multiplied by 12) is at or below the figure for your household size, you pass Part 1 of the means test.

Household SizeAnnual MedianMonthly Equivalent
1 person$66,882$5,574
2 persons$86,947$7,246
3 persons$101,661$8,472
4 persons$118,381$9,865
5 persons$128,281$10,690
6 people$138,181$11,515

For each additional person above 4, add approximately $9,900 to the 4-person figure.

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Bankruptcy Filing in Alaska

Federal Exemptions

Available

Alaska is one of the states that allows bankruptcy filers to choose between state exemptions and federal bankruptcy exemptions (11 U.S.C. Section 522(d)). This gives filers more flexibility to protect their property. In many cases, the federal exemptions offer higher protection for personal property, while state exemptions may provide better homestead coverage. A careful comparison of both sets is essential before filing.

Bankruptcy Districts

1 district

Alaska has one federal bankruptcy district. All bankruptcy cases in the state are filed in this single district court.

Alaska Income and the Means Test

The single-person median income threshold in Alaska is $66,882, which is near the national middle range. Filers whose income is close to this threshold should carefully average their last 6 calendar months of gross income. If one or two months had unusually high income (bonus, overtime, severance), waiting for those months to fall outside the 6-month window can change the result.

Tips for Filing in Alaska

  1. Gather all income documentation for the 6 full calendar months before your planned filing date, including pay stubs, tax returns, 1099s, and bank statements.
  2. Compare both federal and Alaska state exemptions to determine which set protects more of your property.
  3. Complete the credit counseling requirement (from an approved provider) before filing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the income limit for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Alaska?

There is no single income limit. The means test compares your annualized income (6-month average times 12) to the median income for your household size. For a single person in Alaska, the current median is approximately $66,882 per year. For a family of four, it is approximately $118,381. If your income is below the median for your household size, you pass Part 1 of the means test.

Can I use federal bankruptcy exemptions in Alaska?

Yes. Alaska allows bankruptcy filers to choose between state exemptions and federal bankruptcy exemptions under 11 U.S.C. Section 522(d). You must choose one complete set -- you cannot mix and match individual exemptions from both. Compare both sets carefully with attention to the homestead, vehicle, and wildcard exemptions.

What happens if I fail the means test in Alaska?

Failing Part 1 of the means test (having above-median income) does not disqualify you. You must then complete Part 2 (Form 122A-2), which deducts allowable expenses -- including IRS standard amounts, actual secured debt payments, taxes, insurance, and child care. Many above-median filers pass Part 2. If you still do not pass, Chapter 13 is an alternative that allows debt repayment over 3 to 5 years with no income ceiling.

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