Debts that have been discharged in bankruptcy should be reported accurately on your credit reports to reflect the bankruptcy’s impact on your financial history. Here’s how these debts should be handled:

1. Not Required to Pay Discharged Debt:
   • It’s important to understand that once a debt is discharged in bankruptcy, you are legally released from the obligation to repay it. Creditors cannot pursue you for the discharged debt.
2. Debt Included in Bankruptcy Should Be Noted:
   • Debts that were part of your bankruptcy filing should be clearly indicated as “included in bankruptcy” on your credit reports. This notation helps lenders and creditors understand the status of these debts.
3. Address Reporting Errors:
   • If you notice any errors or inaccuracies in how your discharged debts are reported on your credit reports, you have the right to dispute these errors. You can send dispute letters to the credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) to have them corrected.
4. Consult Your Bankruptcy Lawyer:
   • If you find that creditors are not reporting your discharged debts correctly, it’s advisable to contact the bankruptcy lawyer who handled your case. They can help ensure that the appropriate information is reported to the credit bureaus.
5. FCRA and Bankruptcy Laws:
   • The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and bankruptcy laws contain provisions to prevent inaccurate reporting of discharged debts. These laws are in place to protect consumers from unfair or misleading reporting practices.
6. Seek Legal Advice if Needed:
   • If you have further questions or concerns about how discharged debts are reported on your credit reports, you can consult with a lawyer who specializes in the FCRA and bankruptcy matters. They can provide guidance and assistance in addressing any issues.

In summary, it’s crucial for discharged debts to be accurately reported on your credit reports to reflect the outcome of your bankruptcy. If you encounter any reporting errors or issues, take proactive steps to correct them, and consider seeking legal advice if necessary to ensure that your credit reports are accurate and compliant with applicable laws.