What is the difference between discharging and writing off a debt?

In Massachusetts, the difference between discharging and writing off a debt is important to understand when it comes to filing for bankruptcy. Discharging a debt means that the debtor is no longer liable for the debt and the creditor cannot take any action to collect the debt. This is the final resolution of the debt and is accomplished through filing for the bankruptcy and then successfully completing a bankruptcy case. Writing off a debt is when a creditor forgives a portion or all of the debt. It is up to the creditor to decide if they are willing to write off the debt and this often requires negotiating with the debtor. This is a process that happens outside of the court system and does not require filing for bankruptcy. In Massachusetts, writing off a debt can provide debt relief, but it does not legally end the debt or protect the debtor from future collection attempts by the creditor. Discharging a debt, however, will end the debt and will protect the debtor from future collection attempts. It is important to understand the difference between discharging and writing off a debt when considering filing for bankruptcy in Massachusetts.

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What is the difference between discharging and writing off a debt?

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