Nondischargeable Debts

Comprehensive guide to debts that survive bankruptcy under 11 U.S.C. Section 523

Always Nondischargeable

Domestic support obligations -- child support, spousal support, alimony, and maintenance -- are never dischargeable in any chapter of bankruptcy. This is one of the few absolute rules in bankruptcy law.

Priority Status

DSOs receive the highest priority under Section 507(a)(1). In Chapter 13, they must be paid in full through the plan. In Chapter 7, they survive discharge completely.

Discharge Requirement

Under Section 1328(a), a Chapter 13 debtor must certify that all domestic support obligations that became payable before or during the case have been paid in full before receiving a discharge. If you are behind on support, you cannot receive a discharge until you are current.

Learn about Chapter 13 plans

Chapter 13 Plan Guide

Related Resources

Nondischargeable Debts -- Which debts survive bankruptcy under Section 523(a)

Taxes in Bankruptcy -- Which tax debts can be discharged and which survive

The Discharge Injunction -- How Section 524 permanently bars creditor collection after discharge

Federal Rules Committee

This research supports Suggestion 26-BK-3 to the Advisory Committee on Bankruptcy Rules

Proposing automated Section 1328(f) discharge bar screening in federal bankruptcy courts