Bankruptcy in St. Paul, MN

St. Paul is the capital of Minnesota and the second-largest city in the Twin Cities metro. It sits directly across the Mississippi River from Minneapolis and serves as the seat of Ramsey County.

Key Information

County

Ramsey County
Your county determines your federal district and local courthouse.

Federal District

District of Minnesota
All bankruptcy cases from St. Paul are filed in this district.

Nearest Courthouse

316 N Robert St, St. Paul, MN 55101
341 meetings and court hearings are typically held at this location.

Zip Codes Served

55101 55102 55103 55104 55105 55106 55107 55108 55109 55110 55112 55113 55114 55116 55117 55119 55126 55130 55155
Verify your zip code falls within the correct filing district.

Minnesota Exemptions in St. Paul

Minnesota state exemptions apply. Homestead: $450,000 (up to $1,150,000 for agricultural property). Vehicle: $5,000. Household goods: $11,500. Wildcard: $13,000 (can be applied to any property). Wages: 75% exempt. Retirement accounts: fully exempt. Minnesota does not allow federal exemptions.

Exemptions determine what property you can keep in bankruptcy. See the full exemptions guide.

Filing Bankruptcy in St. Paul, MN

The Process

  1. Credit counseling -- Complete an approved course within 180 days before filing ($15-25).
  2. File your petition -- Filed with the District of Minnesota. The automatic stay takes effect immediately.
  3. 341 meeting -- About 30 days after filing, attend a brief meeting of creditors at 316 N Robert St, St. Paul, MN 55101.
  4. Debtor education -- Complete a second financial course before discharge ($10-25).
  5. Discharge -- Chapter 7: approximately 60 days after the 341 meeting. Chapter 13: after completing 3-5 year plan.

Local Resources in St. Paul

  • Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services (SMRLS) -- Free bankruptcy advice for qualifying low-income residents
  • Ramsey County Law Library -- Free legal research resources at the courthouse
  • Volunteer Lawyers Network -- Pro bono attorneys for qualifying individuals

These organizations may offer free or low-cost assistance. Contact them directly to verify current services and eligibility requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do St. Paul residents file bankruptcy?

St. Paul residents file in the District of Minnesota. The courthouse is at 316 N Robert St, St. Paul, MN 55101 -- conveniently located in downtown St. Paul. All 341 meetings of creditors are held at this location.

What exemptions apply in St. Paul?

Minnesota exemptions apply. The homestead exemption is $450,000 (up to $1,150,000 for agricultural property). Vehicle exemption is $5,000. Minnesota also offers a generous $13,000 wildcard exemption that can be applied to any property.

How much does bankruptcy cost in St. Paul?

Court filing fees are $338 for Chapter 7 and $313 for Chapter 13. Attorney fees in the Twin Cities typically range from $1,000-$2,500 for Chapter 7 and $2,500-$4,500 for Chapter 13. Fee waivers may be available for those below 150% of the poverty line.

Check Your Eligibility

Use the free 1328(f) screener to check whether a prior discharge affects your eligibility.

Free Discharge Screener

Other Minneapolis-St. Paul Area Cities

Open Bankruptcy Project Network