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.
Source: Federal Judicial Center Integrated Database, 2008--2024. Analysis by Open Bankruptcy Project.
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).
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 consumers on opposite sides of State Line Road see different Chapter 13 outcomes in the 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Use the free 1328(f) screener to check whether a prior discharge affects your eligibility.
Free Discharge ScreenerOpen Bankruptcy Project provides free educational information. We are not a law firm. Nothing on this site constitutes legal advice. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney.
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