Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
The Power of aFresh Start
Chapter 7 bankruptcy is one of the most powerful legal tools available to individuals overwhelmed by debt. Here's what it can do for you.
Benefits
What Chapter 7 Can Do For You
From the moment you file, Chapter 7 puts powerful legal protections to work on your behalf.
Immediate Automatic Stay
The moment you file, an automatic stay goes into effect — legally stopping all creditor calls, letters, lawsuits, wage garnishments, bank levies, and repossessions. Relief starts on day one.
Eliminate 100% of Your Unsecured Debts
Chapter 7 discharges the full balance of eligible unsecured debts — no partial payments, no negotiations. You walk away with a clean slate.
Stop Foreclosure (Temporarily)
The automatic stay immediately halts foreclosure proceedings, giving you time to assess your options.
Stop Repossession
Vehicle repossessions and personal property seizures are stopped the moment your case is filed.
End Wage Garnishments
Active wage garnishments must stop immediately upon filing, putting money back in your paycheck.
A Fresh Financial Start
Chapter 7 is the fastest bankruptcy process — most cases are completed in 3 to 6 months, letting you start rebuilding your financial life quickly.
Begin Rebuilding Credit
Once discharged, you can begin rebuilding your credit. Many filers qualify for secured credit cards and auto loans within 1–2 years of discharge.
Dischargeable Debts
Debts You Can Eliminate 100%
Chapter 7 wipes out the full balance of these common debt types — permanently.
Non-Dischargeable Debts
What Chapter 7 Cannot Eliminate
Certain debts survive bankruptcy and will remain your responsibility after discharge.
Student Loans
Generally not dischargeable unless you can prove undue hardship through a separate court proceeding.
Child Support & Alimony
Domestic support obligations survive bankruptcy and must continue to be paid.
Most Tax Debts
Recent income taxes (generally within 3 years) are not dischargeable. Some older tax debts may qualify.
Criminal Fines & Restitution
Fines, penalties, and restitution owed to the government are not dischargeable.
Debts from Fraud
Debts incurred through fraud, misrepresentation, or false pretenses survive discharge.
DUI-Related Debts
Debts arising from personal injury or death caused by drunk driving are not dischargeable.
Recent Luxury Purchases
Luxury goods or cash advances taken shortly before filing may not be dischargeable.
Important Disclosure: I am a bankruptcy petition preparer, not an attorney. I do not provide legal advice, legal representation, or guidance on whether bankruptcy is right for your situation. If you need legal advice, I will refer you to a licensed bankruptcy attorney. Petition preparation services are provided in accordance with 11 U.S.C. § 110.