Chapter 7 of Title 11 U.S. Code is the bankruptcy code that governs the process of liquidation under the bankruptcy laws of the U.S. In contrast to bankruptcy under Chapter 11 and Chapter 13, which govern the process of reorganization of a debtor, Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the most common form of bankruptcy in the U.S.

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a “second chance” to regain control of your finances by having most of your unsecured debt, including credit card debt, medical bills, and personal loans legally discharged by a bankruptcy court. In virtually all cases, however, it does not discharge student loans, tax debt, alimony, or child support.

A Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a type of bankruptcy that can quickly clear away debts. It's also called a liquidation bankruptcy because you will have to sell nonexempt possessions or assets to repay your creditors. Another name for it is a straight bankruptcy because there are no drawn-out repayment plans.

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the bankruptcy filing most often used by consumers. It provides protection from creditors, puts a stop to most collection efforts and can eventually wipe debts away. Debtors have to agree—theoretically, at least—to hand over their property so it can be sold to generate cash to pay the people they owe.

Chapter 7 of Title 11 in the U.S. bankruptcy code controls the process of asset liquidation. A bankruptcy trustee is appointed to liquidate nonexempt assets to pay creditors; after the proceeds are exhausted, the remaining debt is discharged.