A chapter 13 bankruptcy can be very useful in helping you keep the debts your want to keep such as a house or car and get rid of the debts you want to discharge. You make payments over a period of five years. There are nine major situations that a chapter 13 may be better than a chapter 7. If you fall into one of these situations you should consider filing a chapter 13. 1. You only file chapter 7 once every eight years. If you filed a chapter 7 in the last eight years then you are limited to filing a chapter 13. 2. If you have more than $5000.00 in equity in your homestead/$10000.00 if married you exceed the exemptions you are allowed and may be forced to file a chapter 13. 3. If you have more than $3000.00/$6000.00 if married in equity in personal property you may be forced to file a chapter 13. 4. Your income is too high according to the means test. 5. If you have certain tax debts you may be better off to file a chapter 13. 6. A chapter 13 can stop foreclosure of your home. 7. A chapter 13 can stop the repossession of your auto. 8. A chapter 13 can get you out of jail if you are behind on your child support. Cram Down if you purchased your auto over 910 days ago you may be able to reduce what you owe on your auto and only repay the auto’s fair market value. Cost is $30 to file.