How Much Does a Lawyer Charge for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy? A Comprehensive Guide
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How Much Does a Lawyer Charge for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy? A Comprehensive Guide
Alright, let's talk about something that’s probably been gnawing at you, something that keeps people up at night when they’re already dealing with the crushing weight of debt: the cost of getting out from under it. Specifically, we're diving deep into what a lawyer charges for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. And let me tell you, this isn’t just a simple number you can Google. It's a nuanced, often emotional, and incredibly important decision, and I'm here to walk you through every single facet of it, like a seasoned guide through a complex, sometimes intimidating, landscape.
Look, I get it. You're already in a tough spot financially, and the idea of shelling out more money for legal help might feel counterintuitive, maybe even impossible. But here’s the unvarnished truth: hiring the right Chapter 7 bankruptcy attorney isn't just an expense; it's an investment in your financial future, a crucial step toward that fresh start you desperately need. Trying to navigate the intricate labyrinth of bankruptcy law alone can be a recipe for disaster, potentially costing you far more in the long run than any attorney fee. We're going to pull back the curtain on everything, from average costs to hidden fees, from what impacts pricing to how you can potentially save a few bucks, all while making sure you understand the immense value a good lawyer brings to the table.
Pro-Tip: Don't let the initial sticker shock scare you away from seeking help. The cost of not getting professional guidance for a Chapter 7 filing can be exponentially higher in terms of lost assets, denied discharge, or ongoing financial stress.
The Average Cost of a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Attorney
Let's cut right to the chase, because I know this is probably the first thing on your mind. When you're looking at what a Chapter 7 bankruptcy attorney charges, you're generally talking about a range that can span from around $1,000 to $3,500 for a typical, straightforward case. Now, before you gasp or sigh in relief, understand that this is a very broad average, and it's heavily influenced by a multitude of factors we're about to dissect. This fee covers the legal services provided by your attorney—their expertise, their time, their staff’s work, and their representation. It’s their professional fee for guiding you through the process, preparing your documents, and standing by your side.
It's absolutely critical, right from the jump, to distinguish these attorney fees from the other expenses you'll encounter. The lawyer's fee is separate from the court filing fees, credit counseling course costs, and any other miscellaneous administrative expenses. Think of it like buying a car: the attorney fee is the price of the car itself, while the court fees are like the registration and plates – mandatory but distinct. Many people conflate these, leading to confusion and sometimes unexpected financial strain if they haven't budgeted correctly. We'll break down those separate costs later, but for now, keep that distinction clear in your mind.
For a truly simple Chapter 7 case – perhaps a single wage earner with no real estate, minimal assets, primarily unsecured debt like credit cards and medical bills, and no prior bankruptcy filings – you might find fees on the lower end of that spectrum, say $1,200 to $1,800. These are the cases where the means test is a clear pass, and there are no complicated creditor issues or asset exemptions to navigate. The attorney's workload is relatively predictable, allowing for a more standardized fee. These cases, while seemingly straightforward, still require meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of bankruptcy law to ensure everything is filed correctly and efficiently.
Conversely, as soon as you introduce elements of complexity – maybe you own a home, have a small business, have significant non-exempt assets, or there are prior bankruptcy filings in your history – you can expect the attorney fees to climb towards the higher end of that average, or even exceed it. These complexities demand more of the attorney's time, more specialized knowledge, and often more extensive document preparation and legal strategy. It's not about nickel-and-diming; it's about the increased risk, responsibility, and labor involved in ensuring your case proceeds smoothly and successfully, protecting your interests at every turn.
Setting initial expectations is key. When you first speak with a bankruptcy lawyer, one of the first things they should do, after understanding the basics of your situation, is give you a candid assessment of their fee structure. Don't be shy about asking for a clear breakdown. A reputable attorney will be transparent about their costs and what exactly is included. Remember, this isn't a one-size-fits-all situation; your unique financial circumstances will dictate where your specific case falls within this general range, and a good lawyer will explain why their fee is what it is, tailored to your needs.
Key Factors Influencing Chapter 7 Attorney Fees
Now that we've got a general ballpark, let's peel back the layers and examine the specific elements that can swing those attorney fees significantly. It's like buying a house; the price isn't just about the number of bedrooms, but also the neighborhood, the builder's reputation, the market conditions, and even the current interest rates. Understanding these factors won't just satisfy your curiosity; it will empower you to make a more informed decision and understand the value proposition of different legal services.
Geographic Location
Believe it or not, where you live plays a massive role in how much your Chapter 7 bankruptcy will cost you in legal fees. This isn't unique to bankruptcy; it's true for almost any professional service, from dentistry to home repair. The economic landscape of a particular area directly impacts the cost of doing business for a law firm, which in turn affects their pricing for clients. Think about it: a lawyer practicing in Manhattan or Los Angeles faces vastly different overhead costs—rent, utilities, salaries for staff—than one operating in a smaller, rural town in the Midwest. These operational expenses have to be covered, and they're factored into the fees charged to clients.
Beyond just the cost of living and doing business, market demand also plays a significant role. In areas with a higher population density, there might be more bankruptcy attorneys, leading to some competitive pricing. However, in major metropolitan areas, even with more attorneys, the sheer volume of cases and the higher cost of living often push fees upwards. For example, a Chapter 7 filing in New York City or San Francisco could easily be $500 to $1,000 more expensive than an identical case filed in, say, Omaha, Nebraska, or a rural county in Alabama. It's just the reality of regional economics.
It's not just state-by-state, either; costs can vary even within the same state, depending on whether you're in an urban center versus a more suburban or rural setting. A lawyer in downtown Chicago will likely charge more than a lawyer practicing in a smaller town an hour or two outside the city, even if they're both licensed in Illinois and handling similar cases. This is because the urban environment typically commands higher real estate costs, higher wages for legal support staff, and often a higher demand for specialized legal services due to a larger, more complex economy. It’s all part of the economic ecosystem.
So, when you're doing your initial research, don't just look at national averages; try to find out what attorneys in your specific area are charging. This local market research will give you the most accurate picture of what you can expect to pay. Sometimes, clients might consider hiring an attorney from a neighboring, less expensive county, but you need to be cautious there. While possible, an attorney who regularly practices in your specific bankruptcy court district will be intimately familiar with the local judges, trustees, and court procedures, which can be invaluable. This local knowledge often justifies a slightly higher fee, as it can streamline the process and prevent unforeseen hiccups.
Complexity of Your Case
This is arguably the single biggest determinant of attorney fees for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Just like a simple tax return costs less than one involving multiple businesses and international investments, a straightforward bankruptcy case is naturally less expensive than one riddled with complexities. Think of it this way: the more moving parts, the more potential pitfalls, and the more strategic thinking required, the higher the legal bill will be. This isn't about arbitrary charges; it's about the attorney's time, expertise, and the increased risk they take on.
What makes a case "complex"? Well, let's list a few common culprits. Do you own a home, especially one with significant equity or multiple mortgages? That immediately adds layers of analysis regarding homestead exemptions, lien stripping possibilities, and potential secured creditor issues. What about other substantial assets, like multiple vehicles, investment accounts, valuable collectibles, or even intellectual property? Each of these requires careful review to determine if it's exempt under federal or state law, or if it might be at risk of being liquidated by the bankruptcy trustee. This asset analysis is not a quick glance; it's a deep dive into applicable statutes and case law.
Then there's the debt side. While Chapter 7 is primarily for unsecured debt, having a mix of secured debts (car loans, mortgages), priority debts (taxes, child support arrears), and non-dischargeable debts (student loans) can complicate matters. Do you have business interests, even a small sole proprietorship? That can trigger a need to analyze business assets, liabilities, and potential personal guarantees, often blurring the lines between personal and business finances. Prior bankruptcy filings, especially within the last eight years (for Chapter 7), also add complexity because they can impact your eligibility for discharge or raise questions about your intent.
Insider Note: One of the most common complexities arises when debtors have recently transferred assets to family members or friends. This can trigger "preferential transfer" or "fraudulent transfer" issues, potentially leading to adversary proceedings where the trustee tries to claw back those assets. These situations always increase legal fees significantly due to the specialized litigation involved.
Even seemingly minor issues can balloon into complexity. Did you have significant income in the six months prior to filing, potentially failing the means test? An attorney might need to spend considerable time identifying allowable deductions to help you qualify. Are there any potential issues of fraud, such as misrepresenting income or assets, or incurring substantial debt right before filing with no intent to pay? These red flags can prompt intense scrutiny from the trustee and creditors, potentially leading to objections to your discharge – a nightmare scenario that requires extensive legal defense and drives up costs dramatically.
Attorney Experience and Reputation
Just like you wouldn't expect a freshly graduated medical student to charge the same as a renowned surgeon with decades of experience, the experience level and reputation of your bankruptcy attorney will directly impact their fees. This isn't about snobbery; it's about proven expertise, efficiency, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing you're in highly capable hands. A lawyer who has handled hundreds, if not thousands, of Chapter 7 cases over many years has seen it all, navigated countless tricky situations, and developed an intuitive understanding of the bankruptcy system that simply cannot be replicated by someone newer to the field.
More experienced attorneys often command higher fees because their track record speaks for itself. They have a deeper understanding of the nuances of bankruptcy law, are intimately familiar with the local bankruptcy court judges and trustees, and possess the strategic foresight to anticipate potential problems before they arise. This experience translates into a smoother, more efficient process for you, minimizing the risk of costly mistakes or unexpected complications. They know how to maximize your exemptions, effectively handle creditor challenges, and ensure your discharge is granted without a hitch. This level of confidence and competence is a valuable commodity.
A lawyer's reputation also plays a significant role. Attorneys who are highly regarded within the legal community, perhaps those who are board-certified in consumer bankruptcy law, or who frequently speak at industry events, will naturally charge more. Their reputation isn't just about prestige; it's a testament to their consistent success, ethical practice, and deep knowledge. Clients seek them out specifically for their ability to handle complex or high-stakes cases, knowing that their investment in a top-tier attorney often pays dividends in terms of a favorable outcome and reduced stress. They are often the ones who can find creative solutions to problems that might stump less experienced practitioners.
Conversely, newer attorneys or those with less specialized experience might offer lower fees to build their practice and client base. While this can be an attractive option for very simple cases, it's crucial to weigh the potential savings against the risks. An inexperienced attorney, while well-intentioned, might overlook critical details, miss opportunities to protect your assets, or make procedural errors that could delay your discharge or, in the worst-case scenario, lead to a denial of discharge. It's a delicate balance between cost and competence, and for something as important as your financial future, erring on the side of experience is often the wiser choice.
Law Firm Size and Overhead
The size and structure of a law firm also have a direct bearing on the fees they charge for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. This factor is largely driven by overhead costs, which every business, including a law firm, must cover to stay operational. Simply put, larger firms generally have higher overheads, and these costs are ultimately reflected in their client fees. It's a fundamental economic principle that applies across industries, and legal services are no exception.
Consider a large, full-service law firm. These firms often occupy prime office space in downtown areas, employ a significant number of administrative staff (paralegals, legal assistants, receptionists, IT support), invest in expensive legal research databases, and maintain robust marketing budgets. They might offer a wider range of legal services, from family law to corporate litigation, and often have multiple attorneys specializing in different areas. All these resources and amenities come at a considerable cost. To maintain this infrastructure and provide a high level of service, their fees for Chapter 7 bankruptcy filings will typically be on the higher end of the spectrum compared to smaller operations. You're essentially paying for the entire ecosystem of support and expertise that such a firm provides.
On the other hand, smaller, specialized practices or solo attorneys often have significantly lower overheads. They might work out of a home office, a shared office space, or a more modest commercial location. They often have fewer support staff, leveraging technology to streamline processes, or handling more administrative tasks themselves. Because their operational costs are lower, they can often afford to charge more competitive rates for Chapter 7 cases without sacrificing profitability. These firms often focus exclusively on bankruptcy, meaning their expertise is highly concentrated, but their operational footprint is lean.
Pro-Tip: When comparing firms, don't just look at the raw number. Ask about their firm structure. A solo practitioner who focuses only on bankruptcy might offer highly specialized expertise at a more competitive rate than a large firm where bankruptcy is just one of many departments, especially if the larger firm assigns a less experienced associate to your case.
However, it's not always a clear-cut "smaller is cheaper" scenario. A highly experienced solo practitioner with a stellar reputation might charge fees comparable to, or even higher than, a junior attorney at a large firm, simply because their individual expertise and demand are so high. The key is understanding that firm size and overhead are contributing factors, not the sole determinants. What it boils down to is that you're paying for the infrastructure, the support, and the specific expertise that a firm provides. A good rule of thumb is to consider what level of support and resources you believe your case requires, and then find a firm size and structure that aligns with both your needs and your budget.
Payment Plan Options and Structure
The way an attorney structures their payment options can also subtly influence the total fee for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. While the core legal work remains the same, the flexibility – or lack thereof – in payment terms can make a difference in how accessible their services are and, in some cases, how the total fee is presented or calculated. This is especially relevant in Chapter 7, where specific rules about pre-petition payments come into play.
Most Chapter 7 attorneys require their fees to be paid in full before the bankruptcy petition is filed. This isn't just a preference; it's a legal necessity to avoid creating a pre-petition debt owed to the attorney, which would then also be discharged in your bankruptcy. If the attorney were to collect fees after the filing, those fees would legally be considered a dischargeable debt, and they would essentially be working for free. Therefore, the vast majority of attorneys will not file your case until their fee is completely satisfied. This upfront payment model means that if a firm offers a payment plan, it’s typically a plan for you to pay the total fee over several weeks or months before the filing date.
Some firms might offer more flexible payment plans, allowing you to pay the total fee in installments over a period leading up to your filing. For example, they might require a smaller initial retainer to open your file and begin preliminary work, then allow you to make weekly or bi-weekly payments until the full amount is collected. While this doesn't usually change the total fee, it can make it more manageable for clients who don't have a large lump sum readily available. This flexibility can sometimes come with a slight premium, or it might be a standard offering to attract clients who are struggling with immediate cash flow. It's also possible that a firm offering extremely flexible, long-term payment plans might have a slightly higher base fee to account for the administrative effort and potential risk associated with extended payment collection.
Pro-Tip: Always ask if an attorney offers payment plans. While the fee must be paid before filing, some attorneys are much more flexible than others in allowing you to pay in installments over time. This can be a lifesaver if you're struggling to gather the full amount upfront.
It's also worth noting that some attorneys might charge a flat fee for Chapter 7, which is the most common approach, covering all the standard services from consultation to discharge. Others might break down their fees into hourly rates for specific tasks, though this is less common for straightforward Chapter 7s due to the predictability of the work involved. For more complex cases, however, an hourly rate might be quoted, especially if there's a high likelihood of litigation or extended negotiations with trustees or creditors. Always ensure your fee agreement clearly outlines the payment structure, the total amount, and what services are included, leaving no room for ambiguity.
What's Typically Included in the Attorney Fee for Chapter 7?
When you pay a Chapter 7 bankruptcy attorney, you're not just paying for a piece of paper or a single meeting. You're investing in a comprehensive service package designed to guide you through a complex legal process, protect your rights, and secure your financial fresh start. Understanding what's included in that fee is crucial for appreciating the value you're receiving and for making an informed decision about who to hire. Let's break down the typical components of a Chapter 7 attorney's fee.
Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation
This is almost always the first step, and it's a critical one. During the initial consultation, you'll meet with the attorney (or a paralegal under their supervision) to discuss your financial situation in detail. This meeting is where the attorney gathers crucial information about your income, expenses, assets, debts, and any recent financial transactions. They'll ask about your goals – what you hope to achieve by filing bankruptcy – and listen to your concerns. This isn't just a casual chat; it's a thorough information-gathering session that lays the groundwork for your entire case.
A key part of this initial evaluation is the means test assessment. This is a complex calculation designed to determine if your income is low enough to qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. The attorney will take your household income, compare it to the median income for a household of your size in your state, and then factor in allowable expenses. This test can be surprisingly intricate, and an experienced attorney knows how to correctly apply deductions to help you qualify if you're on the borderline. Without proper guidance, many people incorrectly assume they don't qualify, missing out on the relief Chapter 7 offers.
Beyond the means test, the attorney will conduct an initial review of your assets and debts. They'll assess what property you own (real estate, vehicles, bank accounts, retirement funds, etc.) and determine how federal or state exemption laws might apply to protect those assets. This is where an expert can truly shine, strategizing to maximize your exemptions and safeguard as much of your property as legally possible. They’ll also look at your debt structure, identifying secured, unsecured, priority, and potentially non-dischargeable debts, advising you on the likely outcome for each.
Most Chapter 7 attorneys offer the initial consultation for free. This is a common practice in bankruptcy law, allowing potential clients to explore their options without financial commitment. However, it's important to clarify this upfront. Some attorneys might charge a nominal fee for a more in-depth initial meeting, especially if it involves extensive document review or complex preliminary advice. Always ask about the cost of the initial consultation when you first contact a firm; a free consultation is a great opportunity to gauge the attorney's expertise and whether they're a good fit for you.
Document Preparation and Filing
This is where a significant portion of the attorney's work, and thus your fee, goes. Filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy involves an immense amount of paperwork – it's not just a single form. The bankruptcy petition itself is often dozens of pages long, accompanied by numerous schedules and statements that meticulously detail every aspect of your financial life. This includes your income, expenses, assets, liabilities, recent financial transactions, executory contracts, and more. Think of it as painting a complete, intricate picture of your financial world for the court and the bankruptcy trustee.
Your attorney and their staff will guide you through the process of gathering all the necessary financial documents. This often includes pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, credit card statements, loan documents, property deeds, vehicle titles, and more. This part can feel overwhelming for clients, as it requires a high level of organization and diligence. The attorney's office acts as your command center, helping you collect, organize, and understand what's needed. They'll provide checklists and instructions, often simplifying what feels like a mountain of paperwork into manageable steps.
Once all the information and documents are gathered, the attorney and their paralegals will meticulously prepare your bankruptcy petition, schedules, and statements. This isn't a simple data entry task. It requires a deep understanding of bankruptcy law to ensure accuracy, proper classification of debts and assets, and strategic application of exemptions. Even a small error or omission can have significant consequences, potentially leading to delays, loss of assets, or even a denial of discharge. The attorney reviews everything with a fine-tooth comb, ensuring compliance with all federal and local court rules.
Finally, after your thorough review and signature, the attorney's office handles the electronic filing of your complete bankruptcy package with the bankruptcy court. They ensure all deadlines are met, all required forms are submitted, and the process is initiated correctly. This behind-the-scenes work, from the initial data input to the final submission, is highly specialized and requires precision. It’s a core component of the legal service, ensuring that your journey into bankruptcy begins on solid, legally compliant footing.
Representation at the 341 Meeting of Creditors
This is arguably the most visible and often most nerve-wracking part of the bankruptcy process for clients, and your attorney's presence and guidance here are absolutely invaluable. The 341 Meeting of Creditors, sometimes called the "Meeting of Creditors" or "creditor's meeting," is a mandatory hearing where you, under oath, answer questions from the bankruptcy trustee and sometimes from your creditors. It's usually a brief proceeding, often lasting only 5-10 minutes, but it's crucial.
Your attorney's role begins long before the meeting itself. They will spend time preparing you for what to expect, reviewing potential questions the trustee might ask, and ensuring you understand how to answer truthfully and effectively. They'll go over your petition and schedules with you, pointing out any areas that might draw particular attention from the trustee. This preparation is key to alleviating your anxiety and ensuring you present yourself confidently and clearly. Without this guidance, debtors often feel lost, unsure of what to say or how to respond, potentially making statements that could inadvertently complicate their case.
During the 341 Meeting itself, your attorney will sit beside you, acting as your advocate and guide. While they typically don't answer questions for you (unless the trustee directs a question to them), their presence is a powerful reassurance. They can object to improper questions, clarify confusing inquiries, and provide immediate legal advice if an unexpected issue arises. I remember one case where a trustee began asking questions far outside the scope of the Chapter 7, delving into personal opinions rather than financial facts. My presence allowed me to interject, remind the trustee of the proper scope, and protect my client from unnecessary distress and potentially irrelevant disclosures.
Insider Note: While creditors can attend the 341 Meeting, they rarely do in Chapter 7 cases. The primary interrogator will be the bankruptcy trustee, who is looking to confirm the accuracy of your petition and identify any non-exempt assets or potential fraudulent activity. Your attorney's expertise in dealing with trustees is crucial here.
After the meeting, if the trustee has no further questions or requests for documents, your attorney will guide you on the next steps. They'll explain what to expect in the coming weeks and months, ensuring you understand the path to discharge. If the trustee requests additional documents or information, your attorney will help you gather and submit them correctly and efficiently. Their role throughout the 341 Meeting and its immediate aftermath is to ensure your rights are protected, the process moves forward smoothly, and you feel supported every step of the way.
Post-Filing Guidance and Discharge
The attorney's work doesn't simply end after the 341 Meeting. Your Chapter 7 attorney continues to provide crucial guidance and support during the post-filing period, right up until your final discharge. This phase, while often quieter than the initial filing and meeting, can still present important decisions and potential pitfalls where expert legal advice is indispensable. Ensuring a smooth path to discharge is the ultimate goal, and your attorney remains your advocate throughout.
One significant area of post-filing guidance involves reaffirmation agreements. If you have secured debts, like a car loan or mortgage, and you wish to keep the property, you might consider reaffirming the debt. This means you agree to continue paying the debt even after your bankruptcy discharge, essentially making it a non-dischargeable debt. Your attorney will explain the pros and cons of reaffirmation, help you negotiate terms with the creditor, and ensure the agreement is properly filed with the court. They'll advise you on whether reaffirming is truly in your best interest, considering your financial recovery, or if surrendering the property might be a better long-term strategy. This is a big decision, and you shouldn't make it without legal counsel.
Your attorney will also handle any inquiries from creditors that might pop up after your filing. While the automatic stay should stop most collection attempts, sometimes creditors are slow to update their records or simply ignore the stay. Your attorney will intervene on your behalf, reminding creditors of the bankruptcy filing and the automatic stay, putting an end to harassing calls or letters. They'll also monitor your case for any potential objections to discharge or motions from creditors. While rare in typical Chapter 7 cases, if a creditor or the trustee files an objection, your attorney will represent you, defending your right to a discharge. This could involve negotiations, responding to legal filings, or even appearing in court, all covered by your initial fee (unless it escalates into full-blown adversary litigation, which might incur additional costs, but this would be rare and discussed upfront).
Finally, and most importantly, your attorney monitors your case to ensure that your final discharge is granted. They track the court's calendar, confirm that all conditions have been met (like completing the debtor education course), and ensure you receive your official discharge order. This order legally wipes out your dischargeable debts, providing the fresh start you sought. They will explain what the discharge means for you, how it impacts your credit, and provide advice on rebuilding your financial life post-bankruptcy. The attorney’s comprehensive service ensures that from your first thought of bankruptcy to the moment your debts are officially discharged, you are supported, informed, and protected.
Costs NOT Covered by Attorney Fees (Separate Expenses)
Alright, let's be super clear about this: your attorney's fee, no matter how comprehensive, generally does not cover every single expense associated with filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy. There are a handful of mandatory costs that are separate from your lawyer's professional services, and it’s absolutely essential to budget for these from the outset. Overlooking these can lead to unexpected financial strain or, worse, delays in your filing. Think of it like buying a plane ticket: the ticket price gets you on the plane, but you still have to pay for checked bags, airport parking, and maybe a snack on board.
Court Filing Fees
This is the big one, the most significant non-attorney expense you’ll face. Every bankruptcy case, whether Chapter 7, 11, 13, or any other chapter, requires a federal court filing fee. As of my last update, the federal filing fee for Chapter 7 bankruptcy is $338. This fee is non-negotiable and goes directly to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court to cover administrative costs, not to your attorney. It's a standard fee across the entire country, regardless of where you live or which attorney you hire.
You typically have two options for paying this fee. The most common is to pay it upfront, in full, when your attorney files your petition. Your attorney will often collect this fee from you along with their own professional fees, and then remit it to the court on your behalf. This is the simplest and most straightforward method. However, recognizing that many individuals filing for Chapter 7 are in dire financial straits, the court does offer some flexibility for eligible filers.
Numbered List: Options for Paying Chapter 7 Court Filing Fees
- Pay in Full Upfront: The most common method. You provide the $338 to your attorney, who then submits it to the court when your petition is filed. This ensures no delays and is generally preferred if you can manage it.
- Installment Payments: If you cannot afford the full $338 upfront, you can apply to pay the fee
