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The Daily Insight

How do bankruptcy laws help small business?

Author

Sarah Duran

Published Mar 30, 2026

Chapter 11 bankruptcy is designed to help you restructure your business, which can help in reducing (or eliminating) debt, focusing on profitable parts of the business, selling off parts, and buying time to reconfigure operations. It won’t, however, attract customers or help you generate revenue.

How much does it cost for a small business to file bankruptcy?

According to Rampenthal, the cost for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy typically starts out at $2,000 but can cost more than $5,000 if there are a lot of creditors involved that want to contest the liquidation.

Can I keep my business if I file bankruptcy?

If you are a sole proprietor, Chapter 7 may work well to keep your business operational. As a sole proprietor, you can include both personal and business debts in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Chapter 11 bankruptcy also allows your business to keep its assets and repay creditors through a repayment plan.

Can you own a business in bankruptcy?

Because a sole proprietorship’s assets essentially belong to the business owner, the owner can file a personal bankruptcy case and keep his business. However, businesses such as partnerships, LLCs and corporations function as separate legal entities. They must file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy separate from their owners.

Do corporations get a discharge in bankruptcy?

Not only will filing Chapter 7 close the business, but corporations and LLCs don’t receive a debt discharge. It isn’t needed. A creditor can’t collect from the company once it’s no longer operational.

What happens if your small business files for bankruptcy?

While most small business owners will file Chapter 7 bankruptcy, sole proprietors have another option: Chapter 13. With this option, you may be able to list both personal and professional debts in your bankruptcy filing. For example, if you operate your business out of your home, you may be able to include missed rent payments.

When does a s Corp file for bankruptcy?

Rules for S Corp Filing for Bankruptcy. When debts and liabilities surpass all assets and it’s no longer possible to meet the financial obligations, a corporation has the option to file for bankruptcy. Classified as a small business, business income passes through the owner, or owners, and the shareholders.

What’s the best bankruptcy Chapter for a small business?

Other bankruptcy chapters available to struggling businesses include the cheaper and easier to use Chapter 11, Subchapter V. Read Bankruptcy for Small Business Owners: An Overview for an introduction to all small business bankruptcy options. Sole proprietors who need a fresh start often find Chapter 7 quite beneficial.

What happens when a LLC files for bankruptcy?

An LLC that files for Chapter 7 bankruptcy will result in the business’ assets being liquidated to resolve its debts. Generally, the LLC’s owners are not personally responsible for business debts — unless, as with limited partners, the owners have personally guaranteed any of those debts.