Debtors are usually able to discharge most or all of their debts. Once a debt is discharged, a creditor may not attempt to collect it from the debtor. SOURCE: Federal Judiciary Channel (YouTube)
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The following program was produced by the United States Courts.
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Debtors are usually able to discharge most or all of their debt.
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To get a discharge,
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you must fulfill certain duties, including the completion of a financial management course
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after the case was filed.
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When you take this course depends on the chapter of your bankruptcy case.
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As with pre-bankruptcy credit counseling,
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you can find approved providers of this course by call or texting the bankruptcy court in your area
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or by accessing a list posted on the bankruptcy court’s web site.
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The cost of the course varies. Some agencies will reduce or waive the cost,
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depending on your circumstances.
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The discharge prohibits creditors from taking any action,
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including sending a letter or filing a lawsuit,
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to collect a discharged debt.
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Once you get your discharge, creditors may not attempt to collect any discharged debt
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from you.
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If they do,
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you can file a motion with the court reporting the action
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and asking that your case be reopened to address the matter.
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If the court finds a creditor has violated a discharge,
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it may fine the creditor, require the creditor to pay the legal fees, or take other actions.
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The discharge does not prevent you from voluntarily paying a debt for personal are other reasons.