Who’s on the hook for credit card debt after a divorce in Texas? It’s a question that catches many off guard—especially when the relationship ends but the bills keep coming. In community property states like Texas, the way that debt is divided can feel anything but straightforward.
When couples separate, they often assume each person walks away with whatever debt is in their own name. But in Texas, it’s not that simple. That’s where guidance from someone who focuses on debt relief—not just divorce—can make a big difference. The Law Office of Joel Gonzalez helps individuals understand how marital debts are divided, and what options exist when the credit card bills don’t stop coming—even after the relationship ends.
In this blog, we’ll break down how credit card debt is treated during divorce in Texas, what happens after separation, and how bankruptcy can shift the burden.
What Is “Marital Debt” in Texas?
Texas is one of only nine community property states. That means debt accumulated during the marriage is typically considered shared—even if only one spouse’s name is on the account.
So what counts as marital debt?
- Credit card balances taken on while married, even if only one spouse opened the card
- Joint credit cards, regardless of who used them
- Loans taken out during the marriage for household needs
However, the court may still assign debts based on who benefited or who spent recklessly.
After Separation: Does the Debt Still Follow Both Spouses?
A legal divorce decree can assign responsibility for specific credit cards to one spouse. But that doesn’t always stop creditors from coming after the other.
Here’s why:
- The divorce decree doesn’t cancel the original credit agreement.If your name is still on the account, the lender can pursue you—even if the court assigned the debt to your ex.
- Late or missed payments can hurt both credit scores.If one spouse fails to pay a card that was meant to be theirs, both parties may see the fallout.
Can Bankruptcy Help?
If credit card balances are piling up and divorce has left one person with more than their share of the bills, bankruptcy may offer relief.
How does bankruptcy affect shared credit card debt?
- Chapter 7 bankruptcymay discharge personal responsibility for qualifying debts, including credit cards.
- Filing alone could leave the ex-spouse still on the hook if both names are on the account.
- If only one person files, creditors may still try to collect from the other.
That’s why it’s important to understand how bankruptcy impacts marital debts—and how it interacts with divorce decrees and credit card agreements. For some, it’s a way to stop collection calls, avoid lawsuits, or prevent a judgment from spiraling into bigger problems.
What If I’m Being Sued Over a Credit Card?
In Texas, lawsuits from credit card companies aren’t uncommon after divorce—especially if payments stop.
If you’re being sued:
- Respond to the lawsuit right away
- Gather documentation showing the card was used for marital expenses
- Consult with someone who handles credit card lawsuit defense in Texas
Waiting too long can result in a default judgment, which may lead to further legal consequences.
When Debt Becomes the Last Link to a Former Marriage
Still feel tied to a marriage because of lingering bills? Credit card debt doesn’t always get resolved cleanly in a divorce. And when creditors come calling, it may feel like the past is pulling you back in.
That’s where the Law Office of Joel Gonzalez can help. Based in Corpus Christi, this debt relief law firm works with individuals who need real answers—not just legal paperwork. Whether you’re looking for credit card debt relief, need help from a debt settlement lawyer, or are facing a collection lawsuit, this is a place where the focus is on finding solutions that actually work.
If divorce left you with more than your share of credit card debt, contact the Law Office of Joel Gonzalez. Get help understanding your options—and take the first step toward a clean financial break.
