Reaching the end of Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a big accomplishment. You've successfully completed your repayment plan, and now it's time to discharge your debt. However, many bankruptcy filers find this part of the process a little confusing since little guidance is provided.

The Craig Black Law Firm knows Chapter 13 filers have questions about discharge, and I'm here to answer them. When you call me at 678-888-1778, I personally take the call, and that personal approach applies to every stage of my work with clients. You can also fill out my confidential contact form, and I'll reach out to you directly.

What Does a Chapter 13 Discharge Mean?

When you agree to a repayment plan under Chapter 13, you're given a timeline of between three and five years for completion. At the end of that timeframe, provided you've met all your obligations under the bankruptcy, eligible debts will be discharged.

Not all your debts will be discharged at the end of your repayment period. Debts you'll likely still be responsible for paying include:

• Home mortgages
• Alimony or child support
• Some taxes
• Government-funded education loans
• Benefit overpayments
• DUI-related debts
• Debts for criminal restitution or fines

Steps to Take After Your Discharge

Bankruptcy discharges are automatic and happen at the end of the repayment period. You'll receive a copy of the discharge order, but it won't outline exactly which debts are discharged. Once you've received a copy of the discharge order, here are some things you can do to move past the bankruptcy:

• Retain your discharge order: Your discharge order will come in handy if one of your creditors claims you still owe. Keep it in a safe place. If you do lose it, you can get a replacement through the court that issued the order.
• Check your credit report: Credit reports take at least 45 days to update, but within a few months, you should be able to see a zero balance on every debt that was discharged. If creditors still show a balance after six months, dispute those charges.
• Start rebuilding your credit: Your bankruptcy will remain on your credit report for seven years, but you can start working on strengthening your credit score at any time. Apply for a secured credit card and start making small purchases on that card.

Bankruptcy Help from the Craig Black Law Firm

A bankruptcy discharge is an exciting moment. It signals the beginning of the next chapter in your life. With that fresh start comes some challenges, though, including tackling credit report disputes for those entries that don't update.

The Craig Black Law Firm has experience with Chapter 13 bankruptcies, including helping clients dispute charges and request copies of discharge orders. If you need help with your Chapter 13 bankruptcy discharge, contact me by calling 678-888-1778. You can also complete this confidential form, and I'll reach out to you.