Chapter 7 bankruptcy eliminates most unsecured debts including credit card balances, medical bills, personal loans, deficiency balances from repossessed cars, and old utility bills. You’ll also eliminate most lawsuit judgments and wage garnishments. However, you typically cannot discharge recent taxes, student loans, child support, alimony, or debts incurred through fraud. Secured debts like mortgages and car loans can be eliminated, but you’ll lose the property unless you continue making payments. Most people are surprised by how much debt they can actually eliminate through Chapter 7.