Definition of reasonable living expenses?

[scrapwench]

I did a search on this, but couldn't find an answer. Is there a list somewhere of what's considered to be reasonable living expenses if you're trying to file chapter 7?

I'm wonder about things we're locked into contracts for, like cell phones, internet service, satellite dish service, etc. Since we don't have the money to pay the cancellation fees, are those things factored in as reasonable expenses?

[LadynRed]

Cable, cell phones, internet service and maybe the dish ARE allowed expenses these days. Most things that you would NORMALLY incur as an expense these days is allowed.

Here's an expense calculation sheet that will give you a good idea of what to use. Amounts need to be reasonable, but a lawyer should help you with those as they know how high is tolerated by Trustees in your area for each category.

http://www.ca-bankruptcy-attorneys.com/calculators/expense_calculator.html

[scrapwench]

Thanks! That sheet does list the dish on it, so hopefully it's allowed :)