It appears to be common knowledge that once an individual files for bankruptcy, student loans must still be paid back. However, that common knowledge isn’t exactly accurate because some types of private student loans can actually be forgiven, or discharged, after bankruptcy.

Career training student loan debt is one type of debt that can potentially be forgiven once bankruptcy is declared. In addition to career training student loan debt being forgiven, individuals may be eligible to file lawsuits against the debt collector if they have been harassed to have the debt collected.

Career Training Student Loan Debt May Qualify for Discharge

Certain types of career training student loan debt that has been accrued may be forgiven in bankruptcy, but not all loans qualify. 

Two main factors that can assist in determining if careers training student debt loan qualifies for discharge are 1) the loan was issued by a for-profit lender and 2) the loan was not made for “qualified educational expenses,” and rather than paying for a traditional four-year university, the funds were used for a career training program.

Career Training Student Loan Debt and the FDCPA

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) protects debtors with any kinds of debt, including career training student loan debt, from suffering harassment and other unfair practices related to debt collection.

The FDCPA was passed by Congress in 1978 after consumers began to fight back over unfair tactics used by debt collection agencies to receive payment on debts owed.

Some of the practices that are covered under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act include guidelines and restrictions pertaining to debt collection practices utilizing telephone calls in order to collect a debt.

Restrictions include when and how frequently calls are allowed to be placed, prohibition of calling family members and employers when collecting a debt, debt collectors must stop calling after being asked to do so, and there are additional provisions regarding consumer privacy and reports to credit agencies.

Fighting against Illegal Career Training Student Loan Debt Collection

If you believe you are the target of illegal debt collection for a career training student loan debt that you owed, you may be able to take legal action under your rights granted by the FDCPA.

It is possible that you may no longer have to pay career training student loan debt if you have filed for bankruptcy and you meet the qualifications discussed above. Additionally, if you are receiving harassing phone calls in an attempt to collect your career training student loan debt, you may be able to take legal action as well.

An experienced attorney familiar with student loan debt and discharge is available to review your case for free and can assist you in deciding if pursuing legal action against your student loan holder and any debt collectors is right for you.