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Can you file bankruptcy on charge cards?

Author

Sophia Koch

Updated on January 25, 2026

With both types of bankruptcy, most forms of unsecured debt can be discharged, including credit card debt. Others types of dischargeable debt include medical bills, utility bills, judgments, certain tax debts and more.

Do you have to close all credit cards when filing bankruptcy?

When you file for bankruptcy, you must include all of your creditors in your bankruptcy papers. In most cases, when a credit card company receives notice of your bankruptcy, it will cancel your card. However, under certain circumstances, you may be able to keep a credit card even after bankruptcy (discussed below).

Can you file bankruptcy on charged off accounts?

Dealing with a Charged Off Debt During Bankruptcy You should be aware that you will need to list debts that appear as charged off on your credit report. This is because debts that are charged off are still valid. If you do not list a charged off debt, you may not be able to get it discharged in bankruptcy.

Should I file bankruptcy if I have charge offs?

Should you decide to file for bankruptcy, it’s important to include any charged-off debts. A Chapter 7 bankruptcy plan can eliminate unsecured debts like credit card debt completely. Additionally, the automatic stay that goes into effect when you file prevents creditors or debt collectors from contacting you directly.

Can a credit card charge be charged in bankruptcy?

Bankruptcy law states that any debt obtained by fraud, misrepresentation, or false pretenses is nondischargeable in bankruptcy. For bankruptcy purposes, this includes credit card charges or cash advances you never intended to pay back when you used your card.

Can you file for bankruptcy if you have credit card debt?

Yes, Chapter 7 bankruptcy erases almost all credit card debt. So, if you owe far more than you think you can pay, Chapter 7 can likely help you get back on your feet and stay there.

When to file for Chapter 7 credit card bankruptcy?

Chapter 7bankruptcy ensures that almost all credit card debt gets erased. This is the best option to file for if you absolutely think you cannot pay off your debt in a timely manner, or if you owe more money than you can reasonably afford to repay.

Which is better, defaulting on credit cards or declaring bankruptcy?

However, if you owe $15,000, $20,000 or even more in credit card debt, bankruptcy could be a better option. You could spend as little as $500 and have all that credit card debt dismissed in six months or less.