In Kansas, bankruptcy cases are filed in U.S. Bankruptcy Court, which is part of the Federal District Courts. Your attorney will file your case electronically through the court system.

While other types of cases, like divorce or probate, are filed in one of the 31 Kansas District Courts spread throughout the state, bankruptcy cases are handled in the three Kansas Federal Courthouses, which are located in:

  • Kansas City
  • Topeka
  • Wichita

Recent Changes in Bankruptcy Case Filing Locations (as of 2024):

Previously, Kansas residents could file their bankruptcy cases in any of the three Kansas federal courthouses, regardless of their county of residence. However, starting January 1, 2022, a new rule was introduced for cases filed under Chapter 7 or Chapter 13. Now, bankruptcy cases must be filed in a specific location based on the debtor’s county of residence or principal place of business:

  • Kansas City: For residents or businesses in Wyandotte or Johnson County.
  • Topeka: For residents or businesses in Shawnee or Douglas County.
  • Wichita: For residents or businesses in Sedgwick or Butler County.

Residency Requirement:

To file for bankruptcy in Kansas, a debtor must have lived in the state for the majority of the 180 days before filing their case. If you have resided in Kansas for more than three months, you can file a bankruptcy case in Kansas. However, if you’ve lived in the state for less than three months, you’ll need to wait before filing in Kansas.

If you have lived in Kansas for the required 180 days, you can file your bankruptcy here. However, if you’ve lived in Kansas for less than two years, you may not be able to use Kansas bankruptcy exemptions. You would need to use the exemptions available in whichever state you were residing in during the two years prior to filing or possibly federal exemptions.

What Does This Mean for You?

  • You will file your bankruptcy case in the court district corresponding to your residence or principal place of business.
  • Kansas City, Topeka, or Wichita are the filing locations depending on where you live.
  • Bankruptcy exemptions depend on how long you’ve lived in Kansas, and whether you can use Kansas exemptions could be a critical factor in your case.

If you’re considering bankruptcy and unsure about where to file or which exemptions apply to your situation, a Kansas City bankruptcy attorney can provide you with the necessary guidance. You’re never alone through this process, and we’ll be with you every step of the way!