What is the difference between secured and unsecured debt?

In North Carolina, the difference between secured and unsecured debt is largely determined by the type of collateral that the debtor has pledged as payment for the debt. Secured debt is any debt that is backed by collateral, such as a home loan or car loan. In the event the debtor defaults on the loan, the lender is able to take possession of the collateral to settle what is owed. Unsecured debt, on the other hand, does not have any collateral attached. Examples of unsecured debt include credit card debt, medical bills, and student loans. When dealing with unsecured debts, the debtor has no physical asset that can be taken from them if they fail to make payments. When filing for bankruptcy in North Carolina, the type of debt being discharged makes a critical difference. Secured debts must be paid in full during bankruptcy proceedings if the debtor wishes to keep the collateral. Unsecured debts, however, can be discharged or reduced through the bankruptcy process. Furthermore, creditors are often given more leeway when it comes to unsecured debts than they are with secured debts. This means that a debtor filing for bankruptcy may be able to negotiate with their creditors to reduce or dismiss certain unsecured debts.

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