If you are struggling with debt but cannot afford a bankruptcy attorney, these New York City organizations may be able to help - for free or at reduced cost.
Yes. Several organizations in New York City provide free legal assistance for bankruptcy cases, including the Legal Aid Society, NYLAG, and Legal Services NYC. Eligibility is generally based on income, typically at or below 125-200% of the federal poverty level.
The Legal Aid Society is the nation's oldest and largest legal aid organization. They provide free civil legal assistance to low-income New Yorkers across all five boroughs, handling a wide range of matters including consumer debt, foreclosure defense, and bankruptcy-related cases.
NYLAG provides free civil legal services to low-income New Yorkers. Their consumer protection and bankruptcy practice helps individuals navigate debt relief options, defend against creditor lawsuits, and understand their rights under federal and state law.
Legal Services NYC is the largest civil legal services provider in the country. They operate offices in all five boroughs and provide free legal assistance to low-income residents on matters including consumer debt, public benefits, housing, and bankruptcy.
Bronx Legal Services provides free legal assistance to low-income residents of the Bronx. As part of the Legal Services NYC network, they offer help with consumer debt issues, creditor harassment, and other civil legal matters. Contact Legal Services NYC for Bronx-specific intake information.
Most legal aid organizations serve people whose household income is at or below 125-200% of the federal poverty level. For reference, the 2026 guidelines are approximately:
Each organization sets its own income limits. Even if you are slightly above the threshold, it is worth calling - some programs make exceptions based on circumstances such as medical emergencies, domestic violence, or sudden job loss.
If you do not qualify for legal aid but cannot afford an attorney, you have the right to file bankruptcy on your own. This is called filing "pro se." It is more common in Chapter 7 cases, which are generally simpler than Chapter 13.
The Pro Se Bankruptcy Guide provides step-by-step instructions for people filing without an attorney.
You can also reduce costs by:
Yes. Several organizations in New York City provide free legal assistance for bankruptcy cases, including the Legal Aid Society, NYLAG, and Legal Services NYC. Eligibility is generally based on income, typically at or below 125-200% of the federal poverty level.
Most legal aid organizations in New York serve people whose income is at or below 125-200% of the federal poverty level. For a single person in 2026, that is roughly $18,000-$30,000 per year. Family size affects the threshold. Contact the organization directly for specific eligibility requirements.
If your income is too high for legal aid, consider filing pro se (on your own) using resources at prosebankruptcy.org. Some attorneys offer payment plans or flat-fee arrangements. NYLAG and other organizations may also offer brief advice consultations regardless of income.
Most legal aid organizations will ask for proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, benefits letters), identification, and a summary of your debts and assets. Bring as much documentation as you can to your first appointment to speed up the process.
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