In our last post, we discussed how American credit card debt spiked in April to the highest level it has been since 2008. As a result, we reported that bankruptcy filings could also spike in coming years after Americans got in over their heads with credit card debt they couldn’t afford to pay back.
Credit card debt is one type of debt that can be discharged in Chapter 7 bankruptcy. However, you may be wondering what other kinds of debt can be discharged during bankruptcy, and you may have heard that there are certain types of debt that cannot be eliminated by filing for Chapter 7.
First, let’s start with the other types of debt that can be discharged after an individual files for bankruptcy protection.
In many situations, people file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy protection in order to deal with unsecured debt such as medical bills, utility bills, back rent, uninsured car accident judgments and of course credit card debt.
While Chapter 7 bankruptcy can help consumers deal with many different types of debt, there are some types that cannot be eliminated under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. These include: government fines, back child and spousal support, forfeitures and debts from intentional or malicious injuries.
Additionally, there are a few types of debt that usually cannot be discharged through Chapter 7 bankruptcy with a few exceptions. These include: most student loans, some tax debts and most debts relating to drunk driving charges.
To find out more about the Chapter 7 bankruptcy process and how an experienced bankruptcy lawyer can help, please visit our Milwaukee Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Attorney page.