As far back as colonial times, every citizen has a constitutional right to file for bankruptcy. By declaring bankruptcy, one is relieved of mandatory collection activities for debts existing at the time of filing by a legal "stay" on these activities. The first version of US bankruptcy or Federal Insolvency laws appeared in 1800, and has been evolving ever since.

Chapter 7 or "straight liquidation" bankruptcy permits the retention of exempt assets and property and can be used by individuals, partnership businesses and corporations. Under Chapter 7, recent tax obligations, debts to government units and alimony/child support are not exempt. In case of debts incurred during a marriage, both spouses must file for bankruptcy