Bankruptcy can eliminate many types of debt, but not all debts can be discharged through bankruptcy. Here are some key points on debt discharge through bankruptcy:

– Credit card debt – Most unsecured credit card balances can be erased through Chapter 7 bankruptcy. However, luxury purchases right before filing may be nondischargeable.

– Medical debt – Hospital bills and other medical debts are usually dischargeable. Certain healthcare costs incurred right before filing may not.

– Personal loans – Signature loans, payday loans, and cash advances directly to a borrower can generally be discharged in bankruptcy.

– Past due utilities – Debt owed to utility companies for past services can typically be wiped out through bankruptcy. Ongoing service cannot.

– Civil judgments – If sued by a creditor, resulting legal judgments can often be discharged via bankruptcy.

– Mortgages – Primary home mortgages and home equity loans generally cannot be discharged through bankruptcy. The lender can still foreclose if you default.

– Car loans – Loans for vehicles purchased more than 910 days before filing are usually dischargeable. Newer loans will have proceeds from vehicle liquidation applied.

– Taxes – Most tax debt, including back taxes owed to the IRS, cannot be discharged through bankruptcy. Certain exceptions apply.

– Child support – Child support and alimony payments in arrears cannot be wiped out through bankruptcy. Ongoing support obligations remain intact.

– Student loans – Student loans are almost never dischargeable in bankruptcy except in cases of permanent disability or proven undue hardship.

The ability to discharge specific debt depends on the nature of the debt and the timing of when it was incurred. Speak to a qualified bankruptcy attorney to understand how different debts would be treated.