This tool is designed to estimate the monthly remittance amount required under a debt reorganization plan governed by Chapter 13 of the United States Bankruptcy Code. It typically incorporates factors such as disposable income, secured debt obligations, priority debts (like taxes), and unsecured debt to project a potential repayment schedule. For instance, if an individual has $500 in disposable monthly income after essential expenses, and significant debt obligations, the calculation will provide a projection of the potential monthly payment required over the plan duration, typically three to five years.
The utility of these calculations lies in their ability to provide debtors with a preliminary understanding of their financial obligations within a Chapter 13 framework. This awareness facilitates informed decision-making regarding the feasibility of pursuing this form of debt relief. Historically, manually calculating these payments was a complex and time-consuming process, often requiring expert assistance. The advent of these tools has democratized access to this financial information, enabling individuals to assess their options earlier in the process.