The Co-Debtor Stay

Section 1301 protection for co-signers in Chapter 13

Three Grounds for Relief

Section 1301(c) allows creditors to seek relief on three grounds: (1) the codebtor received the consideration, (2) the plan does not propose to pay the claim, (3) the creditor would be irreparably harmed.

The creditor must file a motion. The court holds a hearing within 20 days. The burden of proof is on the creditor.

Protecting Against Relief

The best defense is a plan that pays the codebtor claim in full. If the plan provides 100% payment, the creditor has no basis for relief.

Even if the plan pays less than 100%, you can argue that modification is possible or that the codebtor did not receive the consideration.

Learn more about Chapter 13 plans

Chapter 13 Plan Guide

Related Resources

The Automatic Stay -- How Section 362 stops creditor collection the moment you file

Chapter 13 Plans -- How Chapter 13 repayment plans work and get confirmed

Relief from Stay -- When and how creditors can lift the automatic stay

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