When you file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you go into the process with the hope that all of your debt will be discharged. While this holds true with most unsecured debt, there are some types that are immune to the bankruptcy process.
Here is a list of the debts that cannot be discharged in Chapter 7 bankruptcy:
— Student loans
— Child support
— Spousal support
— Most types of tax debt
— Personal injury debts
— Penalties and fines handed down for violating the law
— Cooperative housing fees
If you plan on filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, make sure you fully understand what can and cannot be discharged. This will help answer one very important question: Should I file or not?
There are also some types of debt that cannot be discharged under Chapter 7, but could be discharged if you file for Chapter 13. These include:
— Non-dischargeable tax obligations
— Divorce property settlements
— Debts for malicious injury to property
It is a common myth that all types of debt can be discharged under Chapter 7 bankruptcy. If you believe this to be true, it could harm your ability to make an informed decision regarding what is best for you, your money, and your future.
The bankruptcy court is extremely strict with regard to what can and cannot be discharged when you file for Chapter 7. You want to understand the ins and outs of the legal system, how your situation will be impacted, and which decisions you can make to improve the future if you decide to file.
Source: FindLaw, “What Happens After Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?,” accessed Dec. 15, 2015
