Chapter 7 bankruptcy allows individuals to eliminate a significant portion of their unsecured debt and achieve a fresh financial start. However, it's important to remember that not all debts can be discharged through this process. Knowing which debts will remain your responsibility even after a Chapter 7 bankruptcy is essential for understanding the full scope of relief that bankruptcy can provide. In this blog post, we'll explore the types of debts that cannot be discharged and explain why certain obligations remain even after bankruptcy.
Non-Dischargeable Debts in Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
While Chapter 7 bankruptcy can help you eliminate many types of unsecured debt, specific debts are considered non-dischargeable by law. These debts will remain your responsibility even after your bankruptcy case is completed. Some of the most common non-dischargeable debts include:
Student Loans: In most cases, student loans are not dischargeable through bankruptcy. However, there is an exception if you can prove that repaying your student loans would cause an undue hardship. This standard is challenging to meet, and few borrowers successfully obtain a discharge for their student loans.
Tax Debts: Certain tax debts, particularly those under three years old, are generally non-dischargeable. However, older income tax debts may be dischargeable if they meet specific criteria, such as having been filed on time and assessed at least 240 days before filing for bankruptcy.
Child Support and Alimony: Debts related to child support or alimony are considered domestic support obligations and cannot be discharged through bankruptcy. These obligations must continue to be paid in full even after your bankruptcy case is completed.
Fines, Penalties, and Restitution: Debts owed to government entities, such as fines, penalties, and restitution resulting from criminal activity, are non-dischargeable in bankruptcy.
Personal Injury or Death Debts from a DUI: If you were involved in an accident while driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol and caused personal injury or death to another person, any resulting debts are not dischargeable in bankruptcy.
Debts Not Listed in Your Bankruptcy Petition: If you fail to list a debt in your bankruptcy petition, it may not be discharged. It's crucial to ensure that all of your debts are accurately reported when filing for bankruptcy to maximize the relief you receive.
Understanding the Limits of Bankruptcy Relief
Although Chapter 7 bankruptcy can provide significant relief from financial burdens, it's important to understand that it doesn't eliminate all of your debts. Knowing which obligations will remain your responsibility can help you make informed decisions about whether bankruptcy is the right option for your financial situation.
If you're considering filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy and unsure how it may affect your specific debts, it's always wise to consult an experienced bankruptcy attorney. They can provide guidance and help you understand the full scope of relief that bankruptcy can offer, as well as help you navigate the complex bankruptcy process.
Do you have questions about bankruptcy or debt management? If so, contact us today at our Bergen County Office. Call Us at (201) 904-2211 or email Us at info@pjlesq.com
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As with any legal issue, you must obtain competent legal counsel before making any decisions about how to respond to a subpoena or whether to challenge one - even if you believe that compliance is not required. Because each situation is different, it may be impossible for this article to address all issues raised by every situation encountered in responding to a subpoena. The information below can guide you regarding some common issues related to subpoenas, but you should consult with an attorney before taking any actions (or refraining from acts) based on these suggestions. Separately, this post will focus on New Jersey law. If you receive a subpoena in a state other than New Jersey, you should immediately seek the advice of an attorney in your state as certain rules differ in other states.