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Debts and discharge

Discharge

A release from personal liability for certain debts. Some debts, such as certain taxes and student loans, cannot be discharged. 1

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How it works

A bankruptcy discharge releases the debtor from personal liability for certain types of debts. 2

It acts as a court order that bars creditors from trying to collect discharged debts from the debtor personally. 3

A secured creditor, such as a car lender, may still be able to take back the property that secures its loan after a discharge, even though the debtor's personal liability for the debt is discharged. 4

Common questions

When is a Chapter 7 discharge usually issued?

In a typical Chapter 7 case, the discharge order is issued about 60 to 90 days after the date first set for the meeting of creditors. 4

Is there anything to do before the discharge?

Individuals must usually complete a debtor education course after filing to receive a discharge. 5

Related reading

Chapter 7 vs Chapter 13All bankruptcy terms

Sources

  1. Glossary
  2. Discharge in Bankruptcy - Bankruptcy Basics
  3. 11 U.S. Code § 524(a)(2) (Cornell LII)
  4. Chapter 7 - Bankruptcy Basics
  5. U.S. Trustee Program: Credit Counseling & Debtor Education Information

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