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

Author

Andrew Campbell

Updated on January 24, 2026

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.

What happens if you max out your credit cards before bankruptcy?

If you max out your credit cards right before bankruptcy, the court may not wipe out the debt in your bankruptcy. Updated: March 27, 2019. Filing bankruptcy can help you get rid of credit card debt.

Can a credit card company Challenge a bankruptcy?

It’s even easier for a credit card company to challenge the dischargeability of a debt if the creditor can claim, or presume fraud automatically. This can happen in two ways: you take a cash advance within 70 days of filing for bankruptcy totaling $1,000 or more from a single creditor.

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.

What happens if you cant pay your credit card debt?

That sounds a lot like what the IRS can do, but the IRS doesn’t need the court system to garnish wages or seize property. In addition, if you can’t pay your credit card debt, there is a way out – bankruptcy. You might be able to discharge your credit card debt through Chapter 7 bankruptcy, but tax debt is nearly impossible to discharge.

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.

Is it good idea to pay bills with credit card?

So if charging as much as possible to the plastic in your pocket makes good financial sense, should you use your credit card to pay your regularly monthly bills, or stick to paying them from your checking account? Paying your bills with your credit card or checking account depends on several factors.

How to get rid of credit card debt in Chapter 7?

In most cases, you can get rid of credit card debt in Chapter 7 bankruptcy. If you use a single credit card to buy more than $675 worth of luxury goods or services within 90 days of filing for bankruptcy, the debt is presumed to be nondischargeable.