Kansas City Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Data

Q: Why is the Missouri side worse than Kansas?

W.D. Mo. preliminary dismissal rates have risen in recent years. The District of Kansas has remained more stable. Contributing factors may include differences in local rules, trustee practices, and attorney representation patterns.

Kansas City straddles two federal districts with notably different Chapter 13 outcomes. The data below compares the Western District of Missouri and the District of Kansas side by side.

W.D. Mo.: 93.5% preliminary dismissal rate in 2024*

WDMO Dismissal Rate by Year (2008--2024)

Chapter 13 Dismissal Rate -- Western District of Missouri

Source: Federal Judicial Center Integrated Database, 2008--2024. Analysis by Open Bankruptcy Project.

Methodology note: Chapter 13 plans run 3-5 years. Cases filed 2020-2024 are preliminary -- successful plans are still active, so only early dismissals are reflected. The headline rate uses 2008-2019 data where most cases have reached final disposition. Source: Federal Judicial Center Integrated Database.

Two Districts, Two Outcomes

Western District of Missouri

40.4%

46,548 cases filed -- 16,844 dismissed, 21,878 discharged. 28.6% prior filer rate. 3.8% pro se. An estimated 2,134 potential 1328(f) violations. Preliminary 2024 rate: 93.5% (cases still maturing).

Kansas City MO (400 E. 9th St)

District of Kansas

31.4%

44,949 cases filed -- 11,748 dismissed, 25,615 discharged. 26.1% prior filer rate. 1.6% pro se. An estimated 2,421 potential 1328(f) violations.

Kansas City KS (500 State Ave)

The Kansas City Divide

Side-by-Side Comparison

Kansas City consumers on opposite sides of State Line Road see different Chapter 13 outcomes in the data:

Missouri side: 40.4% overall dismissal rate; preliminary 2024 rate of 93.5%
Kansas side: 31.4% overall dismissal rate, relatively stable over time
Missouri prior filer rate: 28.6%
Missouri trend: Rose from 35.5% in 2010 to 93.5% in preliminary 2024 data

The Missouri side's rate increased significantly between 2020 and 2023. However, recent-year rates are preliminary because Chapter 13 plans run 3-5 years and many successful cases are still active.

Estimated 1328(f) Violations

Across both districts, an estimated 4,555 cases may involve potential 1328(f) eligibility issues -- filings where the debtor had a prior discharge within the statutory time bar. In these cases, a new discharge may not be available under current law.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Chapter 13 dismissal rate in Kansas City?

Kansas City straddles two federal districts. The Western District of Missouri has a 40.4% dismissal rate based on mature 2008-2019 data. The District of Kansas has a healthier 31.4% rate. Recent years show higher preliminary rates because successful 3-5 year plans are still active.

Why is the Missouri side worse than Kansas?

W.D. Mo. dismissal rates have risen from 35.5% in 2010 to preliminary rates above 90% in 2023-2024. The District of Kansas has remained more stable. Contributing factors include differences in local rules, trustee practices, and attorney quality.

How many Chapter 13 cases are filed in Kansas City?

Between 2008 and 2024, W.D. Mo. saw 46,548 Chapter 13 filings and D. Kansas saw 44,949, for a combined 91,497 cases across the metro area.

What is a 1328(f) violation?

Under 11 U.S.C. section 1328(f), debtors who received a prior discharge within specific timeframes cannot receive another discharge. An estimated 2,134 W.D. Mo. cases and 2,421 D. Kansas cases may involve potential violations.

Should I file on the Kansas or Missouri side?

Bankruptcy venue is determined by where you live, not by choice. However, the data underscores the importance of strong legal representation, especially on the Missouri side. Consult a qualified attorney who practices in your jurisdiction.