Bankruptcy in New York County (Manhattan)

New York County (Manhattan) is the financial capital of the world and the most densely populated county in the United States. Bankruptcy cases are handled by the Southern District of New York, one of the busiest bankruptcy courts in the nation.

New York County (Manhattan) cases are filed in the Southern District of New York. The bankruptcy courthouse is at One Bowling Green, New York, NY 10004, in Lower Manhattan near Battery Park. This is one of the busiest bankruptcy courts in the country.

Key Information

Federal District

Southern District of New York (Manhattan Division)
All bankruptcy cases from New York County (Manhattan) are filed in this district.

Nearest Courthouse

One Bowling Green, New York, NY 10004
341 meetings and court hearings are typically held at this location.

New York Exemptions in New York County (Manhattan)

New York allows a choice between state and federal exemptions. State homestead: $179,975-$299,975 depending on county (New York County: $179,975). Vehicle: $4,825. Cash: $5,000. Personal property: varies by category. Federal exemptions available as alternative: homestead $27,900, vehicle $4,450, wildcard $1,475 plus $13,950 of unused homestead.

Exemptions determine what property you can keep in bankruptcy. See the full exemptions guide.

Filing Bankruptcy in New York County (Manhattan)

The Process

  1. Credit counseling - Complete an approved course within 180 days before filing ($15-25).
  2. File your petition - The petition is filed with the Southern District of New York (Manhattan Division). The automatic stay takes effect immediately.
  3. 341 meeting - About 30 days after filing, attend a brief meeting of creditors at One Bowling Green, New York, NY 10004.
  4. Debtor education - Complete a second financial course before discharge ($10-25).
  5. Discharge - Chapter 7: approximately 60 days after the 341 meeting. Chapter 13: after completing 3-5 year plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which bankruptcy court handles Manhattan cases?

New York County (Manhattan) cases are filed in the Southern District of New York. The bankruptcy courthouse is at One Bowling Green, New York, NY 10004, in Lower Manhattan near Battery Park. This is one of the busiest bankruptcy courts in the country.

Can I choose between state and federal exemptions in Manhattan?

Yes. New York is one of the states that allows filers to choose between state and federal exemptions. The state homestead exemption for New York County is $179,975. The federal homestead exemption is approximately $27,900 per person ($55,800 for a married couple). Most Manhattan residents with significant home equity benefit from the state exemption.

How does the high cost of living affect bankruptcy in Manhattan?

The means test adjusts for local housing and transportation costs, which benefits Manhattan filers. Higher allowed expenses can make it easier to qualify for Chapter 7. However, the homestead exemption of $179,975 may be insufficient to protect equity in Manhattan real estate.

Check Your Eligibility

Use the free 1328(f) screener to check whether a prior discharge affects your eligibility.

Free Discharge Screener

Other New York Area Counties

Open Bankruptcy Project Network

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Our research was cited by the federal judiciary as Suggestions 26-BK-3 and 26-BK-5