The Chapter 7 means test refers to one provision in new federal bankruptcy laws that restrict the eligibility of certain debtors seeking debt relief through Chapter 7 bankruptcy. First, the debtor's income is compared to that of the median income of a family of like size and geographic area. If the debtor's income exceeds this median income figure, which varies from state to state, then he or she must meet the Chapter 7 means test, which is a complex analysis of a debtor's ability to repay his or her debts. If a debtor does not pass the means test, then a complete discharge of debts through Chapter 7 bankruptcy proceedings is not a viable option. Rather, the debtor is limited to relief through Chapter 13 bankruptcy proceedings, which requires a debtor to enter into a debt reorganization plan designed to repay at least some of the debtor's debts.