Expert: Terry Leeders - 6/25/2008

Question
My husband and I are in the process of Chapter 7 Bankruptcy. We're concerned about getting all of our bills listed on the bankruptcy, but our attorney is telling us not to worry, even bills that come in after the bankruptcy will still be discharged.  Is this correct?   He's also stating that we don't have to have the exact amount of the bill, the entire amount will be discharged.  Thank you for your help.

Answer
Actually, no.  To be dischargeable, debts must be scheduled

11 USC § 523.  Exceptions to discharge

   (a) A discharge under section 727, 1141, 1228(a), 1228(b), or 1328(b) of this title does not discharge an individual debtor from any debt--
     (3) neither listed nor scheduled under section 521(1) of this title, with the name, if known to the debtor, of the creditor to whom such debt is owed, in time to permit--

So, you should get a credit report from all 3 bureaus to make sure everything is listed, and include anything else that may not be on the report.  

Now, if you come up with another debt that is not listed, you can amend your bankruptcy if the case is still open.