The filing of a bankruptcy has the effect of a court order stopping every one of your creditors from taking any action to collect money. Creditors may not file or pursue lawsuits, foreclose on your home, repossess your car, or even call or write to you without the permission of the bankruptcy court.

Once your case is finished, any debts that are discharged by your bankruptcy are no longer collectible. Discharged creditors are prevented from harassing you for payment. Mortgages and car loans remain in place, though, and you must keep making payments if you want to keep the property.