Will creditors stop contacting me after filing for bankruptcy?

Full question:

Will creditors stop calling after I file bankruptcy?

Answer:

Yes. Once you file for bankruptcy, an automatic stay goes into effect. This stay stops creditors from calling or harassing you. If a creditor continues to contact you during this period, they may be liable for damages. Federal bankruptcy laws allow individuals harmed by such violations to seek actual damages, including costs and attorney's fees. Punitive damages may also be awarded if the creditor's actions are particularly severe and cause actual harm.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Yes, some debts may still appear on your credit report after bankruptcy. While bankruptcy eliminates your legal obligation to pay most debts, the accounts may remain on your credit report for up to 10 years. However, they will be marked as discharged, indicating that you are no longer responsible for them. This can affect your credit score, but over time, you can rebuild your credit by managing new credit responsibly.