Does Chapter 7 wipe out secured debt?
Rachel Davis
Updated on January 23, 2026
Secured debts are treated differently in Chapter 7 bankruptcy than other kinds of debts. Although the secured debt itself can be wiped out (discharged)—and often is—the creditor will still have a right to take the property back if you fail to pay (default on) the payments.
Can you lose your home in Chapter 13?
You don’t lose property in Chapter 13—that is as long as you can afford to keep it. If you can’t protect all of the equity with an exemption, you’ll have to pay your creditors an amount equal to the value of any nonexempt property equity through your repayment plan (and possibly more).
Does Chapter 7 erase all debt?
Most people file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy to discharge (wipe out) debt. Although some debts are “nondischargeable” and don’t go away in bankruptcy, Chapter 7 will erase many obligations, the most common being medical and credit card debt.
What is the success rate of Chapter 13?
Success Rate for Chapter 13 Bankruptcy The ABI study for 2019, found that of the 283,313 cases filed under Chapter 13, only 114,624 were discharged (i.e. granted), and 168,689 were dismissed (i.e. denied). That’s a success rate of just 40.4%.
Can you keep a loan in a chapter 13 bankruptcy?
There is no opportunity to hold back a debt. You cannot keep a loan such as a loan from a family member or business partner in an attempt to keep the effects of the bankruptcy away from that creditor. However, it is important to know that not all debts are the same in a Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
When do you have to pay off a chapter 13 debt?
These debts must be paid in full over the three- to five-year period of debt repayment that makes up a Chapter 13 bankruptcy debt reorganization plan. Secured debts such as car loans and mortgages.
What kind of debts are included in Chapter 13 bankruptcy?
Secured debts such as car loans and mortgages. These types of loans involve liens placed on the property. Unpaid back car loan payments or mortgage arrearages will be second priority in the debt reorganization. Unsecured debts, including credit card debts and medical bills, are at the lowest priority for repayment in a Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
Can a priority debt be discharged by bankruptcy?
Priority debts can’t be discharged (eliminated) by filing for bankruptcy. If you have priority obligations, you must pay them off in full through your Chapter 13 repayment plan. In most cases, Chapter 13 bankruptcy provides debtors a convenient and affordable way to pay off their priority debts over a three- to five-year period.