Bankruptcy in Queens County

Queens County is the most ethnically diverse urban area in the world and the second-largest New York City borough by population. Cases are filed in the Eastern District of New York.

Queens County cases are filed in the Eastern District of New York. The courthouse is at 271-C Cadman Plaza East, Brooklyn, NY 11201 - the same courthouse used for Brooklyn cases. Queens residents should plan for travel to the Brooklyn courthouse for their 341 meeting.

Key Information

Federal District

Eastern District of New York (Brooklyn Division)
All bankruptcy cases from Queens County are filed in this district.

Nearest Courthouse

271-C Cadman Plaza East, Brooklyn, NY 11201
341 meetings and court hearings are typically held at this location.

New York Exemptions in Queens County

New York state or federal exemptions apply. State homestead: $179,975 (Queens County). Vehicle: $4,825. Cash: $5,000. Federal alternative available: homestead $27,900 per person, vehicle $4,450, wildcard $1,475 plus unused homestead up to $13,950.

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

Filing Bankruptcy in Queens County

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 Eastern District of New York (Brooklyn Division). The automatic stay takes effect immediately.
  3. 341 meeting - About 30 days after filing, attend a brief meeting of creditors at 271-C Cadman Plaza East, Brooklyn, NY 11201.
  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

Where do Queens County residents file bankruptcy?

Queens County cases are filed in the Eastern District of New York. The courthouse is at 271-C Cadman Plaza East, Brooklyn, NY 11201 - the same courthouse used for Brooklyn cases. Queens residents should plan for travel to the Brooklyn courthouse for their 341 meeting.

What exemptions apply to Queens County residents?

Queens County residents can choose between New York state exemptions (homestead: $179,975) or federal exemptions (homestead: $27,900 per person). The best choice depends on your specific assets. Many Queens homeowners benefit from the higher state homestead exemption.

Can I file bankruptcy on my small business in Queens?

If you are a sole proprietor, your business debts and personal debts are combined in a personal bankruptcy filing. Chapter 7 may require liquidating business assets, while Chapter 13 can allow you to continue operating while repaying debts. Consult a qualified attorney for business-specific guidance.

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