Things to know after bankruptcy
You are not responsible for the debts included in your bankruptcy after it ends.
Some debts are not discharged in bankruptcy and will not be written off. Such as:
- Criminal fines
- Child maintenance arrears
- TV Licence non-payment
You need to keep paying these.
Bankruptcy discharge
Bankruptcy usually lasts for 12 months. You are automatically 'discharged' at the end.
The court can stop you from being discharged if you do not cooperate with the OR. This could be if you don’t give them the information they need, or you try to hide assets. You stay bankrupt until you cooperate with them.
Discharge in England and Wales
- You do not get formal proof of being discharged
- You can ask the OR for a 'certificate of discharge' but there may be a fee for this
If you went bankrupt before April 2016:
You can get a 'certificate of discharge' from the court that approved your bankruptcy. There is a £70 fee.
Discharge in Northern Ireland
Your bankruptcy is registered at the Registry of Deeds in Belfast.
You can leave the register by:
- Completing 'Form 13'
- Lodging it with the Registry of Deeds
- Paying the £8 fee