what qualifications must i meet to file chapter 7? are payday loans included in chapter 7?

Chapter 7 has several different tests used to determine eligibility.  The only way to find out if you're eligible is to have a consultation with an experienced bankruptcy attorney in your area. It depends primarily on your income and expenses, including all income received in the 6 calendar months prior to filing your case, but also the income as it is on the date your case is filed.  Your marital status and household size also factor into the analysis. Payday loans are dischargeable in Chapter 7 as long as they are not incurred through fraud.   My article on getting rid of payday loans through bankruptcy may be of interest to you.