Don't let errors on your Credit Report hurt your future opportunities. Learn More

Home / Negative Items / Leave a Credit Card Out of Ch. 13 Bankruptcy?

Leave a Credit Card Out of Ch. 13 Bankruptcy?

  • You must include all credit cards in Chapter 13 bankruptcy by law.
  • Hiding cards is illegal and using them without approval can lead to penalties.
  • Call The Credit Pros for guidance on handling your credit cards during bankruptcy and rebuilding your credit.

Pull your 3-bureau report and see how you can identify and remove errors on your report.

Get Help From a Credit Expert

89 people started their credit fight today - join them!

BBB A+ rating credit repair company

Related content: What credit cards can I get before and after bankruptcy

You must include all credit cards in Chapter 13 bankruptcy. The law requires you to disclose all debts, even zero-balance accounts. Hiding cards is illegal and can lead to severe penalties.

Once notified of your bankruptcy, credit card companies will likely cancel your accounts. You usually can't use credit cards during the 3-5 year repayment plan without court approval. This protects creditors and keeps you on track with your debt repayment plan.

Need help with bankruptcy and credit? Call The Credit Pros now. We'll review your credit report and guide you on handling your cards, rebuilding credit after bankruptcy, and avoiding legal trouble. Don't gamble with your financial future - let our experts help you make smart moves.

On This Page:

    Can I Keep A Credit Card During Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

    You generally can't keep a credit card during Chapter 13 bankruptcy. When you file, you must disclose all creditors, including card issuers, even for zero-balance accounts. Most companies will cancel your cards once they're notified of your bankruptcy. The court and trustee prohibit you from taking on new debt during your 3-5 year repayment plan. If you use credit cards, you'll violate this rule and risk getting your case dismissed.

    In rare cases, you might get court approval for new credit if it's truly necessary for an emergency or to continue your repayment plan. But this is uncommon. Instead, we advise you to focus on:

    • Building an emergency fund for unexpected costs
    • Following your court-approved repayment plan
    • Working towards financial stability without relying on credit cards

    After you complete Chapter 13, you can start rebuilding your credit through:

    • Secured credit cards
    • Becoming an authorized user on someone else's account
    • Consistently making on-time payments

    Remember, your goal is to get your finances back on track without credit card debt. Stay focused on your repayment plan and avoid new credit during this time. We understand it's challenging, but you're taking important steps towards financial stability.

    What Happens To My Credit Cards In Chapter 13

    When you file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, your credit cards undergo significant changes. You must list all your creditors, including card issuers, even for accounts with zero balance. Most card companies will cancel your cards as soon as they learn about your bankruptcy filing.

    Your unpaid credit card balances become part of your 3-5 year repayment plan. However, you might only repay a portion of these debts. The court considers credit card debts as unsecured, low-priority claims.

    During your repayment period, you can't get new credit without court or trustee approval. You'll need to prove it's necessary, such as needing a car for work. To request new credit, you must be current on your plan payments.

    We understand this process can feel overwhelming. Remember, bankruptcy aims to give you a fresh financial start. While it impacts your credit for 7-10 years, it can provide relief from overwhelming debt. Consider these long-term effects carefully before you make a decision.

    Key points to keep in mind:
    • Your card issuers will likely cancel your accounts when they learn about your bankruptcy
    • Your unpaid balances will enter your repayment plan
    • You'll need court approval for new credit during bankruptcy
    • You can rebuild your credit after discharge, but it's challenging

    We recommend that you consult a bankruptcy attorney for personalized guidance. They can help you weigh the pros and cons for your specific situation.

    At the end of the day, you're taking a big step towards financial recovery. While it's not an easy process, understanding what happens to your credit cards in Chapter 13 can help you navigate this challenging time more effectively.

    Can I Exclude Certain Credit Cards From Bankruptcy

    You can't exclude specific credit cards when filing for bankruptcy. The law requires you to disclose all your debts and accounts, including credit cards. Here's what you need to know:

    • You must list all credit cards, even those with zero balances
    • Card issuers will be notified and likely cancel your accounts
    • You can't show preference to certain creditors

    While you can't keep cards during bankruptcy, you have options after discharge:

    • You can apply for new credit cards designed for rebuilding credit
    • Consider looking into secured credit cards as an alternative
    • Some issuers are more "bankruptcy-friendly" than others

    We understand this process can be stressful for you. It's crucial that you consult a bankruptcy attorney to guide you through the legal requirements. They can help you make informed decisions about your financial future.

    Rebuilding your credit takes time, but it's not impossible. Focus on responsible financial habits after bankruptcy to improve your creditworthiness over time.

    Lastly, remember that trying to hide credit cards is illegal and can lead to serious consequences for you, including denial of discharge or criminal penalties. We advise you to be honest and upfront throughout the bankruptcy process to ensure the best possible outcome for your financial recovery.

    How Does Chapter 13 Affect My Existing Credit Card Accounts

    When you file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, it significantly impacts your existing credit card accounts. Here's what you need to know:

    Your credit card companies will be notified of your bankruptcy filing, which usually leads to immediate account cancellation. This applies even to cards with zero balances. You're required to disclose all creditors to the bankruptcy court, including credit cards without outstanding debt.

    During your 3-5 year Chapter 13 repayment plan, you're generally prohibited from using credit cards. Any remaining card debt may be partially or fully discharged upon successful completion of your plan.

    The long-term effects on your credit are substantial but not permanent. You'll see the Chapter 13 bankruptcy on your credit reports for seven years from the filing date, negatively impacting your scores. However, as you make consistent payments under the repayment plan, the negative impact gradually lessens.

    Here's what we advise you to keep in mind:

    • Your credit card accounts will likely be closed
    • You won't be able to use credit cards during repayment
    • Your credit will be impacted for 7 years
    • You can rebuild your credit after completing the plan

    It's crucial that you weigh the short-term benefits against the long-term consequences on your credit standing and future borrowing ability. We recommend you carefully consider your options and seek professional advice before proceeding with bankruptcy.

    Finally, remember that while Chapter 13 can offer you debt relief, it's a significant financial decision. You should focus on completing your repayment plan and then take steps to rebuild your credit through responsible financial management.

    Inaccuracies hurting your Credit Score?
    Securely review your full 3-bureau Credit Report (with a real expert).

    By clicking ‘Get Started’ I agree by electronic signature to: (1) be contacted by The Credit Pros by a live agent, artificial or prerecorded voice, and SMS text at my residential or cellular number, dialed manually or by autodialer even if my phone number is on a do-not-call registry (consent to be contacted is not a condition to purchase services); and (2) the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

    Are There Exceptions For Keeping Credit Cards During Bankruptcy

    Keeping credit cards during bankruptcy is extremely challenging and often impossible for you. You must list all your debts, including credit card balances, in your bankruptcy filings. Even if you have zero-balance cards, issuers typically close them upon learning of your bankruptcy. While there's no legal requirement for you to surrender physical cards, most of your accounts will be terminated.

    You might retain a card in rare exceptions:

    • You have zero-balance accounts with issuers unaware of your bankruptcy
    • Your cards aren't listed in your filing (only if they truly have no balance)
    • Banks choose not to cancel your cards (which is uncommon)

    However, these exceptions are risky and unlikely for you. If you attempt to pay off balances pre-filing to keep cards active, it's usually futile, as trustees can claw back your recent payments.

    We understand this is a challenging situation for you, but it's crucial that you focus on your long-term financial health. Here's what we advise:

    • Don't hide any of your accounts or balances
    • Be prepared to lose all your credit cards
    • Consider secured credit cards to rebuild your credit post-bankruptcy

    Remember, bankruptcy's purpose is to eliminate your debt and give you a clean slate. While losing credit access is tough for you, it's often necessary for true financial recovery. Big picture: You should view bankruptcy as a fresh start, despite the temporary loss of credit cards, and focus on rebuilding your financial health moving forward.

    What Happens If I Don'T Disclose My Credit Cards In Chapter 13

    Failing to disclose credit cards in Chapter 13 bankruptcy is illegal and carries severe consequences. You're required by law to list all debts, including zero-balance credit cards. If you omit this information, you're committing fraud, which can result in:

    • The dismissal of your case
    • Denial of debt discharge
    • Potential criminal charges against you

    Credit card companies will likely discover your bankruptcy through credit reports and public records anyway, leading to the closure of your accounts. To avoid these issues, you should:

    • Fully disclose all your credit accounts when filing
    • Ensure you're complying with the law
    • Allow for proper debt reorganization in your repayment plan

    After you file, the automatic stay protects you from collection attempts on listed debts. While bankruptcy initially hurts your credit score, it offers you a chance to rebuild your finances over time through:

    • Responsible management of your credit
    • Adhering to the court-approved repayment plan

    We advise you to be completely honest in your bankruptcy filing. It's the best way for you to get a fresh financial start and avoid serious legal troubles down the road. Overall, remember that full disclosure is crucial - it's not worth risking your financial future and legal standing by hiding credit card information.

    Can I Use Credit Cards After Filing For Chapter 13

    Yes, you can use credit cards after filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, but with significant restrictions. Here's what you need to know:

    During your Chapter 13 repayment plan:

    • You must get court approval to open new credit accounts or use existing ones.
    • Your trustee may allow limited use for necessary expenses.
    • You should focus on rebuilding credit responsibly.

    After completing your repayment plan:

    • You'll likely receive new credit card offers, but be cautious of high fees and interest rates.
    • Consider secured credit cards to start rebuilding your credit safely.
    • Use cards for small, everyday purchases and pay the balance in full each month.

    We recommend you look for cards that offer:

    • Credit-building tools and resources
    • Free access to your credit score
    • Reporting to all three major credit bureaus

    Remember, rebuilding credit takes time and patience. As a final point, we advise you to stay focused on maintaining a positive payment history and using credit responsibly to improve your financial future.

    How Do Trustees Handle Undisclosed Credit Cards

    Trustees handle undisclosed credit cards in bankruptcy cases with utmost seriousness. You need to know that they thoroughly investigate all financial aspects of your case. They compare your filed paperwork with financial records to spot any discrepancies.

    If you fail to disclose credit cards, you can face severe consequences:

    • Your discharge might be delayed
    • Your bankruptcy duration could be extended
    • You may have to make additional payments
    • Your creditors might refuse to discharge your debts
    • You could potentially face criminal charges for fraud

    You should understand that trustees must report any suspicious activity or omissions to the court. This can result in penalties under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act and Criminal Code.

    To avoid these risks, we advise you to:

    • Fully disclose all your credit cards, even those with zero balances
    • Surrender all your credit cards during bankruptcy proceedings
    • Be honest and transparent with your trustee

    Your trustee can advise you on alternatives like secured or prepaid cards for necessary transactions during bankruptcy. Remember, your honesty is crucial for a successful bankruptcy process and achieving financial recovery without legal complications.

    We strongly recommend that you never attempt to hide credit cards from your trustee. It's simply not worth the risk, and it can seriously jeopardize your fresh start. Always err on the side of full disclosure, even if you think a card isn't relevant. Your trustee is there to help you navigate the process, not to judge you.

    To put it simply, when dealing with trustees and credit cards during bankruptcy, honesty is your best policy. You should disclose everything, surrender your cards, and work closely with your trustee to ensure a smooth process and avoid legal troubles.

    Inaccuracies hurting your Credit Score?
    Securely review your full 3-bureau Credit Report (with a real expert).

    By clicking ‘Get Started’ I agree by electronic signature to: (1) be contacted by The Credit Pros by a live agent, artificial or prerecorded voice, and SMS text at my residential or cellular number, dialed manually or by autodialer even if my phone number is on a do-not-call registry (consent to be contacted is not a condition to purchase services); and (2) the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

    What Should I Do With My Credit Cards Before Filing Chapter 13

    When you're considering Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you should immediately stop using your credit cards. Only use them for essential needs like food or emergency repairs, and keep detailed records of these transactions. You should avoid increasing your balances or taking cash advances, as this could be viewed as fraudulent behavior.

    Instead of relying on your current credit cards, you should set aside funds to obtain a secured card after your bankruptcy. Most of your credit card debts will likely be included in your Chapter 13 repayment plan.

    We strongly recommend that you consult with a bankruptcy attorney. They can help you review your recent transactions and develop a strategy that protects your interests while ensuring you comply with legal requirements. Remember, your creditors will closely examine your financial activities, so it's crucial that you act responsibly.

    Here are some key steps you should take:

    • Stop all non-essential credit card use immediately
    • Keep detailed records of any necessary purchases
    • Set aside funds for a secured card post-bankruptcy
    • Consult with a bankruptcy attorney for personalized advice

    By following these steps, you'll position yourself for a smoother bankruptcy process. In short, you should handle your credit cards with extreme caution and seek professional guidance to navigate this challenging financial situation and set yourself up for a fresh start.

    Are Secured Credit Cards Treated Differently In Chapter 13

    Secured credit cards are treated differently in Chapter 13 bankruptcy. You'll find that these cards take priority in repayment plans, unlike unsecured debts. The cash deposit backing your secured credit card serves as collateral, giving creditors a valid lien against your property. This means you can't simply exclude them from your filing - you must include all debts.

    In a Chapter 13 plan, you'll see that secured credit card debts typically get addressed with higher priority than general unsecured debts like standard credit cards or medical bills. The collateral nature may allow you to get more favorable repayment terms. If you maintain payments on secured credit cards during bankruptcy, you can potentially help rebuild your credit post-bankruptcy.

    We recommend you:

    • Understand that you can't leave secured credit cards out of your Chapter 13 filing
    • Recognize their priority status in your repayment plans
    • Consider how maintaining payments might benefit your post-bankruptcy credit
    • Consult a bankruptcy attorney to explore strategies for effectively addressing these debts within your specific case

    Remember, every Chapter 13 case is unique. An experienced bankruptcy lawyer can guide you on the best approach for handling your secured credit cards in your situation. To wrap things up, you should prioritize secured credit card debts in your Chapter 13 plan, maintain payments if possible, and seek professional advice to navigate this complex process effectively.

    Can I Keep A Credit Card For Emergencies During Chapter 13

    You generally can't keep a credit card for emergencies during Chapter 13 bankruptcy. The court prohibits you from using credit cards or taking on new debt without approval. Most card issuers will cancel your accounts when they're notified of your bankruptcy filing. Your goal is to repay your existing debts through a 3-5 year plan using your disposable income.

    Exceptions may exist for true emergencies, especially medical ones. In rare cases, trustees might allow you limited credit use for work or essential needs, but this requires explicit court approval. We recommend you explore these alternatives:

    • Build an emergency fund within your repayment plan
    • Seek temporary plan modifications for unexpected expenses
    • Discuss options with your bankruptcy attorney

    Remember, your focus should be on completing bankruptcy successfully while treating all creditors fairly. We understand your desire for financial flexibility, but staying on a cash basis is crucial during this process. If you have specific concerns about handling emergencies, you should talk to your attorney or trustee for guidance tailored to your situation.

    In essence, while it's challenging to keep a credit card during Chapter 13, you have other options to prepare for emergencies. We encourage you to work closely with your bankruptcy team to find the best solutions for your unique circumstances.

    Below is a list of related content worth checking out:

    Privacy and Cookies
    We use cookies on our website. Your interactions and personal data may be collected on our websites by us and our partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions